Rooted in Thunder Bay,
Growing Across Canada
Building Indigenous Business Success
A 100% First Nation–owned group of companies built on vision, leadership, and community values.
Strength in Partnership
Growth
Through Collective
Leadership
The HT Group is a growing collection of Indigenous-owned businesses, headquartered in Thunder Bay, Ontario and collectively built through partnerships with First Nations across Northwestern Ontario.
Our operations include Happy Time Tours & Travel, Carrick Express, Happy Time Real Estate Holdings, and the Best Western Plus Nor’Wester Hotel & Conference Centre, alongside a growing portfolio of community-aligned ventures.
Originating from an initial investment by two First Nations communities in Happy Time Tours, the HT Group has expanded through collaboration, shared vision, and long-term commitment. Supported by experienced leadership and accountable governance, the organization has grown into a diverse and scalable Indigenous enterprise — demonstrating the strength that comes from Nations working together.
Today, the HT Group stands as a proud example of Indigenous entrepreneurship and economic self-determination, focused on creating sustainable opportunities for community members while delivering high-quality services in travel, logistics, real estate, hospitality, and emerging sectors such as insurance and housing development.
Community & Partnerships
The HT Group works in close collaboration with Indigenous and regional partners, fostering economic empowerment and community-driven development throughout Northwestern Ontario.
Operating Companies
Connecting Indigenous communities across Canada and the world through professional, culturally grounded travel coordination. Specializing in remote business travel.
Happy Time Tours & Travel
Best Western Plus Nor’Wester Hotel & Conference Centre
A trusted, award-winning hospitality destination in Thunder Bay, delivering exceptional guest experiences and strong operational performance.
A trusted logistics and delivery company serving Thunder Bay and the surrounding region with reliability, efficiency, and local care.
Carrick Express
Managing and developing properties that support the growth of the HT Group and its partner businesses — including our new modern facility on Beaverhall Place.
Happy Time Real Estate Holdings
Facilities & Operations
Twin-pad arena and community hub operated by the HT Group, supporting local sport, youth programming, and events across the region.
Ventures & LPs
Active Projects
Strategic ownership in Canada’s largest Indigenous-owned insurance brokerage—advancing benefits, pensions, and risk solutions for First Nations, with expansion in Ontario.
(Ownership: 8% TIPI Canada, 49% TIPI Ontario)
www.tipionline.ca
Biidaaban Leasing LP
Equipment and asset leasing that supports project execution and growth across HT Group ventures.
Projects In Development
An Indigenous-led, mixed-use development across 26 acres opposite the Sioux Lookout Airport—phased apartments, townhouses, hotel, retail, and offices to meet regional housing and service needs.
HT Bigwood LP (Sioux Lookout)
HT Sun Trail LP (Arthur Street Apartments)
Purpose-built rental housing on Arthur Street in Thunder Bay, supporting local workforce and community housing needs through disciplined, multi-phase delivery.
We are seeking additional investment partners for active and ongoing projects. Please contact us for more information.
Our Values
Investing for Long-Term Success – Every decision is made with sustainability and generational impact in mind.
Bringing Nations Together – Strength and credibility in numbers, fostering collaboration among First Nations and partners across Canada.
Empowering Indigenous Prosperity – Driving economic development while honoring cultural heritage and shared values.
Proudly First Nation-Owned – 100% Indigenous ownership, guided by traditional values of respect, integrity, and community.
Driven by Growth – Strategic leadership and disciplined management have transformed the organization into a thriving multi-division enterprise.
Committed to Community – Creating meaningful employment and reinvesting in the local economy.
Built for the Future – Expanding operations through new facilities, new partnerships, and new opportunities across Northern Ontario and beyond.
Milestones & Achievements
Quadrupled company revenues under new leadership.
Expanded staff and operations across multiple business divisions.
Opened a new building on Beaverhall Place to centralize and grow operations.
Established a strong foundation for continued Indigenous business leadership and growth in Northwestern Ontario.
HT Group is proud to announce the successful closing of our strategic investment in TIPI Insurance Partners, Canada’s largest Indigenous-owned insurance brokerage.
This partnership strengthens our ability to deliver benefits, pensions, and risk solutions for First Nations communities across Ontario and beyond.
Although the deal is successfully closed and TIPI Insurance Partners is now under the HT Group banner, we are still looking for community partners to invest.
Reach out for more information: emoore@httours.com
December 31, 2025
NEWS