About Us

Working Together, Building Together

Our Story

In 2014 the Gwa’sala-‘Nakwaxda’xw nations founded the K’awat’si Economic Development LP (KEDC) to capitalize on a strong desire by the community to explore and grow opportunities. KEDC & K’awat’si Construction’s (KCC) mandate is to investigate and realize revenue, prosperity, skills, and development for the benefit of the community. Under KEDC’s leadership, KCC is tasked with creating and developing projects that will be profitable, environmentally sustainable, and culturally significant, while respecting the unique cultural values of the Gwa’sala-‘Nakwaxda’xw people.

Our team at K’awat’si Construction is committed to our pledge of being stewards of the land and ensuring that each new project within the Regional District of Mt. Waddington is done in a way that respects the land and its people. With over 70 years of Construction Experience, our team of Red Seal Certified Employees know what it takes to get your project completed on schedule. Whether you are looking for a Residential Construction in Port Hardy, Commercial Construction in Port McNeil. or Tenant Improvements & Renovations throughout the Tri-Port area: K’awat’si Construction can assist you with all your Project Management or home building needs.

Our History

The Gwa’sala-‘Nakwaxda’xw Nation (GNN)

A Strong Nation, With A Rich History And Bright Future

The Gwa’sala-’Nakwaxda’xw Nation (GNN) is a community of just over 915 members.

Most members live on the Tsulquate reserve, adjacent to the town of Port Hardy on the North-eastern tip of Vancouver Island.

The community is committed to a strong and distinct culture and language, and continues to engage all members in an understanding of traditional teachings that apply today. The community is working toward creating, operating and supporting businesses that will be profitable, environmentally sustainable and culturally significant.

Our Vision

To be the leading First Nations-Owned Developer on Vancouver Island & Coastal British Columbia, Respected for Quality, Cultural Integrity, and Commitment to Our Community.

Careers with KEDC

Interested in Joining Our Team? View our current Career Opportunities

FAQs

Who owns and operates K’awat’si Construction Company?

K’awat’si Construction Company is owned and operated by the Gwa’sala-‘Nakwaxda’xw Nations. We are dedicated to delivering high-quality construction services that benefit our community and honour the cultural and environmental values of North Vancouver Island.

What types of construction services does K’awat’si Construction Company offer?

K’awat’si Construction Company specializes in a variety of construction services, including commercial development, residential construction, renovations, and community development projects. We also provide asbestos testing and remediation services, ensuring safe and compliant project sites from start to finish.

What areas does K’awat’si Construction service?

We primarily serve North Vancouver Island, including Port Hardy, Port McNeill, and surrounding areas within the Regional District of Mount Waddington. However, we are open to discussing projects throughout Vancouver Island and the coastal region to meet the needs of our clients and communities.

Does K’awat’si Construction Company work on commercial or residential projects?

Yes, we work on both commercial and residential projects. From new commercial spaces and residential housing to renovations, we bring expertise and dedication to every project we undertake.

What is your approach to community development?

Community development is at the core of our mission. We work closely with local communities and Indigenous partners to ensure that our projects support long-term growth, cultural preservation, and sustainability, creating spaces that benefit and honor the communities we serve.

What does your asbestos testing and remediation service involve?

Our asbestos testing and remediation services ensure that sites are safe and meet health regulations. We conduct thorough inspections, testing, and removal as needed, prioritizing the health and safety of workers and future occupants.

How does K’awat’si Construction incorporate Indigenous values into its projects?

As an Indigenous-owned company, we incorporate respect for the land, sustainability, and cultural heritage into every project. Our goal is to create structures that reflect the Gwa’sala-‘Nakwaxda’xw Nations’ identity and values, while promoting cultural awareness and environmental stewardship.

Can you handle large-scale commercial projects?

Yes, we have the experience and resources to manage large-scale commercial projects. Our team oversees each stage, from planning to construction and project management, ensuring a professional, timely, and high-quality outcome.

Do you offer renovation services for existing structures?

Absolutely! We offer complete renovation services for both commercial and residential buildings, whether it’s a small update or a complete transformation. Our team can help breathe new life into existing structures.

How does K’awat’si Construction Company ensure environmental sustainability in your projects?

Sustainability is a priority for us. We use eco-friendly materials, minimize waste, and follow sustainable construction practices whenever possible, building in harmony with North Vancouver Island’s natural environment.

How can I get an estimate for my project?

To receive an estimate, contact us through our website or call our office. We’ll arrange a consultation to discuss your project needs and provide a detailed and transparent estimate tailored to your vision.

Do you offer employment opportunities within the community?

Yes, we actively hire local talent and prioritize opportunities for members of the Gwa’sala-‘Nakwaxda’xw Nations. We are committed to creating meaningful employment within the community and support skill development through on-the-job training and apprenticeships.

What safety measures do you have in place on your worksites?

Safety is paramount in every project we undertake. We follow regulatory guidelines and enforce strict safety protocols, including regular site inspections, training, and personal protective equipment requirements, ensuring a safe environment for everyone.

How do I know if asbestos testing is required for my property?

Asbestos testing is recommended for buildings constructed before the 1990s, as asbestos was commonly used in materials. If you’re planning a renovation or demolition, contact us to determine if testing is necessary to maintain safety.

Can you help with project permits and approvals?

Yes, we assist with obtaining all necessary permits and approvals for construction, renovation, and asbestos abatement projects, ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory standards for a smooth project experience.

What sets K’awat’si Construction Company apart from other construction companies?

Our unique identity as an Indigenous-owned company gives us a commitment to cultural preservation, community development, and sustainability. We approach every project with respect for people, the land, and the cultural values that make North Vancouver Island unique.

Proudly Indigenous-Owned

K’awat’si Construction Company is owned and operated by the Gwa’sala-‘Nakwaxda’xw Nations. We are dedicated to delivering high-quality construction services that benefit our community and honour the cultural and environmental values of North Vancouver Island.

Learn More About The Gwa’sala-‘Nakwaxda’xw Nations

Comprehensive Construction Services

K’awat’si Construction Company specializes in a variety of construction services, including commercial development, residential construction, renovations, and community development projects. We also provide asbestos testing and remediation services, ensuring safe and compliant project sites from start to finish.

Serving North Vancouver Island and Beyond

We primarily serve North Vancouver Island, including Port Hardy, Port McNeill, and surrounding areas within the Regional District of Mount Waddington. However, we are open to discussing projects throughout Vancouver Island and the coastal region to meet the needs of our clients and communities.

Expertise in Both Commercial and Residential Projects

Yes, we work on both commercial and residential projects. From new commercial spaces and residential housing to renovations, we bring expertise and dedication to every project we undertake.

Discover Projects

A Commitment to Community Development

Community development is at the core of our mission. We work closely with local communities and Indigenous partners to ensure that our projects support long-term growth, cultural preservation, and sustainability, creating spaces that benefit and honor the communities we serve.

Safe and Comprehensive Asbestos Testing

Our asbestos testing and remediation services ensure that sites are safe and meet health regulations. We conduct thorough inspections, testing, and removal as needed, prioritizing the health and safety of workers and future occupants.

Integrating Cultural Respect and Sustainability

As an Indigenous-owned company, we incorporate respect for the land, sustainability, and cultural heritage into every project. Our goal is to create structures that reflect the Gwa’sala-‘Nakwaxda’xw Nations’ identity and values, while promoting cultural awareness and environmental stewardship.

Equipped for Large-Scale Commercial Projects

Yes, we have the experience and resources to manage large-scale commercial projects. Our team oversees each stage, from planning to construction and project management, ensuring a professional, timely, and high-quality outcome.

Full-Service Renovations

Absolutely! We offer complete renovation services for both commercial and residential buildings, whether it’s a small update or a complete transformation. Our team can help breathe new life into existing structures.

Building with Environmental Care

Sustainability is a priority for us. We use eco-friendly materials, minimize waste, and follow sustainable construction practices whenever possible, building in harmony with North Vancouver Island’s natural environment.

Requesting a Project Estimate

To receive an estimate, contact us through our website or call our office. We’ll arrange a consultation to discuss your project needs and provide a detailed and transparent estimate tailored to your vision.

Local Employment and Training Opportunities

Yes, we actively hire local talent and prioritize opportunities for members of the Gwa’sala-‘Nakwaxda’xw Nations. We are committed to creating meaningful employment within the community and support skill development through on-the-job training and apprenticeships.

View Career Opportunities

Ensuring Safety First

Safety is paramount in every project we undertake. We follow regulatory guidelines and enforce strict safety protocols, including regular site inspections, training, and personal protective equipment requirements, ensuring a safe environment for everyone.

Determining Asbestos Testing Needs

Asbestos testing is recommended for buildings constructed before the 1990s, as asbestos was commonly used in materials. If you’re planning a renovation or demolition, contact us to determine if testing is necessary to maintain safety.

Permit and Approval Assistance

Yes, we assist with obtaining all necessary permits and approvals for construction, renovation, and asbestos abatement projects, ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory standards for a smooth project experience.

Indigenous Values and Community Focus

Our unique identity as an Indigenous-owned company gives us a commitment to cultural preservation, community development, and sustainability. We approach every project with respect for people, the land, and the cultural values that make North Vancouver Island unique.

Our Partners

Back to board of directors

Lisa Swain

Back to board of directors