Forest Products Association of Canada (FPAC), in partnership with the Canadian Council for Indigenous Business (CCIB), announces Dallan LP as the recipient of the 2025 Indigenous Business Leadership Award. This honour celebrates exceptional Indigenous entrepreneurs and businesses making significant contributions to Canada’s forest sector and local communities.
“We are honoured to recognize Dale Levesque’s inspiring journey,” said Derek Nighbor, President and CEO of FPAC. “From operator to owner, Dale has built a 100% Indigenous-owned business that champions inclusive employment, partnerships between First Nations, continuous improvement, environmental responsibility, and providing the customer with an exceptional service—setting a powerful example for the broader forest sector,” Nighbor added.
Dale Levesque is a proud member of the Fort William First Nation and native of Marathon, Ontario. Dale built a strong foundation operating heavy equipment in the mining sector around Marathon—skills that would later propel his success in a new industry.
In 2003, Dale joined North American Mill Yard Services as a heavy equipment operator. Rising through the ranks, he was appointed site manager where he oversaw daily operations with a focus on safety, efficiency, and environmental stewardship. Dale took a bold step and acquired the company just seven years later.
In 2014, under his leadership, efforts were made to expand and Dallan LP was formed which is a partnership between Dale Levesque, Lac des Mille Lacs First Nations and Nigigoonsiminikaaning First Nations. Dallan LP expanded its reach into the Pulp and Paper mill yard services and the addition of Atikokan and Ignace sawmills.
Dallan LP
Dallan LP is a 100% Indigenous-owned business that provides industrial yard services which includes a variety of heavy equipment operations, maintenance and general labour.
Under the leadership of Dale Levesque, in 2014 Dallan LP was formed which is a partnership between Lac des Mille Lacs First Nation, Nigigoonsiminikaaning First Nation, and Dale Levesque, a member of the Fort William First Nation. Dallan earns respect for its commitment to Indigenous employment, sustainable practices, and operational excellence in forestry services.
Dallan’s success is not only measured in business growth but also in its deep commitment to community and values. The team has worked hard to grow the business, create jobs, and support sustainable forestry practices. Levesque is especially proud of Dallan's efforts to support Indigenous employment and give back to the community. His journey has been about leadership, resilience, and staying true to his values.
"Working in the forestry sector has been an incredible journey. I’m proud to see how far we’ve come, and it’s an honor to receive the Indigenous Business Leadership Award. This recognition is not just for me, but for the team that has supported this vision, worked so hard, strived for continuous improvement, and for the communities we serve. It’s a reminder that hard work, integrity, and a commitment to our values can drive success, not just for business, but for the greater good." - Dale Levesque, Managing Partner of Dallan LP
For more information about the FPAC Indigenous Awards of Excellence, visit: https://www.fpac.ca/awards/fpac-indigenous-awards-of-excellence
FPAC provides a voice for Canada’s wood, pulp, and paper producers nationally and internationally in government, trade, and environmental affairs. As an industry with annual revenues exceeding $87.2B, Canada’s forest products sector is one of the country’s largest employers—providing 200,000 direct jobs and operating in hundreds of communities across the country. Our members are committed to collaborating with Indigenous leaders, government bodies, and other key stakeholders to develop a cross-Canada action plan aimed at advancing forest health, while supporting workers, communities and our environment for the long term.
