PDAC 2026:
Supporting Responsible and Sustainable Mining
Locally driven solutions for sustainable global mining. Focused on modernization, accountability, and inclusion, Catalyste+ is a not-for-profit economic development partner that provides mentorship and advisory services to attract investment and promote responsible management practices.
Catalyste+’s Panel at PDAC 2026
Shared value and Indigenous leadership: Advancing inclusive entrepreneurship in resource economies
Tuesday March 3rd, 2026 from 3:15 p.m. – 4:15 p.m in Room 714
Chaired and moderated by Andre Xavier, Sr. Manager of Natural Resources
As the natural resource sector confronts the imperative to deliver more inclusive and sustainable outcomes, Indigenous women—long recognized as pillars of strength, resilience and wisdom—are driving transformative change. Across regions like Canada and Ecuador, they are building enterprises rooted in Indigenous culture and values, sustainability and local governance. This panel brings together diverse voices and lived experiences from both countries to explore how Indigenous-led entrepreneurship can generate long-term shared value in resource economies. Panelists will discuss how their work contributes to economic diversification, intergenerational leadership and community well-being, while navigating the complex dynamics of the extractive sector.
More About Catalyste+
Since 1967, Catalyste+ has partnered with governments, businesses, and communities in more than 120 countries, implementing $500M of multiyear projects in the last 35 years. Our focus on good governance and strong institutions supports sustainable economic growth. Tailored solutions transform corporate investments into meaningful community progress to improve livelihoods, support local businesses, and strengthen skill development. We specialize in inclusive growth, ensuring mining operations leave a legacy of prosperity and opportunity for the populations.
Key Contacts
Wendy Harris
President & CEO
Email Wendy
Andre Xavier
Sr. Manager of Natural Resources
Management & Sustainable Development
Email Andre
Jill Lunn
Director, Indigenous & Northern Services
Email Jill
Jennifer Adams
Country Director of Mongolia
Email Jennifer
Sambou Coly
Director, International Services
Email Sambou
Connect With Catalyste+
Experience deeper engagement and collaboration with established teams in more than 30 countries who understand local needs and have solid relationships and extensive networks. By increasing knowledge, skills, and tools, Catalyste+ teams transform legislation into action and stimulate long-term economic development and employment. We partner with government, industry, and community leaders for a shared responsibility in sustainable natural resources management.
Locations
All Regions
Africa
Asia
Caribbean
Latin America
Canada
MERIT in Mongolia
Mongolia: Enhancing Resource Management through Institutional Transformation (MERIT) was an 8-year program to strengthen natural resource governance. We worked with various levels of government to develop the systems and tools needed to maximize the long-term benefits of mining activities for their communities.
SUMM in Ethiopia
Supporting the Ministry of Mines (SUMM), a 6-year project in Ethiopia, supported institutional capacity strengthening. Our collaborative efforts created 117,000 new mining jobs and prompted sector reforms for greater economic and social benefits across the country.