ITFC opens a door of opportunity to the most under-utilized asset in Canada.
Freelancing Goes Mainstream
Canada’s freelance or “gig” economy is growing rapidly, particularly after the COVID-19 pandemic. As of 2024, about 28% of Canadian adults participate in the gig economy. These freelancers have the freedom to choose their projects and work hours, allowing for a better work-life balance. They can take on multiple projects simultaneously, diversifying their income streams, and often work on varied projects, which can enhance their skill set and experience. Freelancers also operate independently, making decisions about their work without the constraints of traditional employment structures. However, despite possessing unique skills and cultural perspectives, Indigenous freelancers often face barriers to accessing mainstream freelance platforms and opportunities.
Increased Dependence on Freelancers
Canadian companies are increasingly relying on freelancers to address various operational needs. Although hiring freelancers is flexible and cost-effective, matching the right freelancer to the right job can be time-consuming and challenging.
Imagine a company specializing in sustainable technology, struggling to find skilled freelancers to handle a surge in eco-friendly projects. They need experts in environmental science, community outreach, and digital marketing but face difficulties finding reliable and culturally knowledgeable candidates.
How ITFC Addresses the Challenge
- ITFC provides a robust platform where businesses can easily access a vast network of Indigenous freelancers. This helps companies find qualified candidates with unique local knowledge and community insights, which can be challenging to identify independently.
- By offering detailed freelancer profiles and a comprehensive database, ITFC ensures businesses can review and select freelancers whose skills and experience match their project needs, improving quality assurance and reliability.
- ITFC streamlines the process of contacting freelancers directly through their platform. This facilitates effective communication and collaboration, helping to bridge any gaps caused by remote working conditions.
- ITFC offers tools to manage contracts, communications, and payments, reducing the complexity of legal and contractual issues associated with hiring freelancers.
- ITFC supports businesses in engaging with Indigenous communities through respectful hiring practices that incorporate cultural perspectives, enhancing project outcomes and fostering inclusive work environments.
Billions and Billions
By using ITFC’s platform to access their network of Indigenous freelancers, the technology company quickly found a talented environmental scientist, a community liaison, and a digital marketing expert—all with strong cultural insights and relevant experience. The platform allowed the company to review detailed freelancer profiles, manage contracts, and streamline communication. They selected freelancers who not only had the required skills but also brought valuable perspectives on sustainability from their Indigenous backgrounds.
Don’t pass up the opportunity to bolster your roster of trusted freelancers. The Indigenous economy is currently valued at $33 billion, but if the full pool of Indigenous workers—many of whom are freelancers—is leveraged, it has the potential to grow to $100 billion! Join ITFC today and tap into this incredible treasure trove of freelance talent.