We help companies and communities build solid, lasting, productive partnerships

What is Innovative Relations?

Innovative Relations connects communities, businesses, and governments using fresh, creative strategies that build trust and teamwork. 

We use new technologies and methods to develop solutions that fit everyone’s needs. This leads to lasting partnerships based on understanding and good communication. Our approach adapts to the changing ways people communicate and work together. 

By using advanced technology and creativity, organizations can strengthen their relationships, leading to shared success. Whether in business, community, or government, our strategies focus on building trust, respect, and mutual benefit.

Keys To This Approach

CULTURAL SENSITIVITY AND INCLUSIVITY

We work closely with communities to ensure that our engagement strategies honour their unique values and traditions. By integrating cultural perspectives with contemporary business practices, we help create solutions that are relevant and respectful. This means we prioritize:

  • Diverse Representation: We ensure diverse voices and perspectives are included in decision-making processes and on-the-ground implementation

  • Cultural Competence: We understand and respect cultural differences and use this understanding to help those around us grow

  • Inclusive Practices: We create safe environments where employees, partners, communities, rightsholders, and stakeholders feel valued and respected

EFFECTIVE COLLABORATION

We believe the best solutions come from working together. That’s why we involve communities in decision-making processes, ensuring that their voices are heard and their needs are met. This collaborative approach leads to partnerships that are equitable, inclusive, and focused on shared success. For us, effective collaboration looks like:

  • Co-creation: We involve all parties involved in the creation of policies, plans, and processes to ensure everyone’s needs and perspectives are integrated

  • Partnerships: We build strategic alliances with other organizations, communities, and sectors to leverage complementary strengths and resources

  • Network Building: We establish and nurture networks of relationships that can provide support, resources, and further opportunities for shared success

SUSTAINABLE PRACTICE

At DHIR, we’re committed to building relationships that go beyond immediate projects. Our focus is on creating enduring partnerships through ongoing dialogue, trust, and a shared commitment to growth and prosperity. This means we center:

  • Transparency: We maintain open and honest communication both internally and externally

  • Accountability: We evaluate potential actions to ensure they align with our values and commitments, and hold ourselves accountable for outcomes

  • Long-term Focus: We prioritize plans and processes that can be maintained longterm and will result in net benefits, both for humans and the environment that sustains us

Indigenous Relations

Is it Indigenous relations or Indigenous engagement? We think it’s the same thing.

More and more companies are looking to engage and work with Indigenous communities. Gaining support in the environment you operate in needs purposeful interaction with the communities by building mutual understanding, trust, and respect.

This requires searching for the common ground even if it takes longer than anticipated.

Don’t be a temporary business partner.

Establishing relationships and partnerships can be confusing and intimidating and many companies don’t have the knowledge, know where to go, or even where to start.

All of this defines both Indigenous relations and engagement.
What We Do

About Us

At DHIR, we bring a hands-on, collaborative approach to fostering meaningful relationships. Initially focused on Indigenous community engagement, we’ve developed robust strategies that advance reconciliation and connect clients with diverse communities to meet their engagement goals. Now, we’re expanding to serve a broader range of local communities, helping clients adopt innovative relational approaches.

We excel in introducing clients to communities we already know and identifying new ones relevant to their operations, balancing the interests of clients and communities alike. Known for our understanding of community standards, protocols, and issues, we guide clients with empathy, humility, and cultural sensitivity to build respectful, productive partnerships. Our vision is to lead in innovative relations, expanding beyond Indigenous communities to foster sustainable, equitable economic partnerships across diverse local groups.
Meet the Team

How can we help?

With over 40 years of combined community and Indigenous Relations consulting experience, we are uniquely positioned to help your organization build sustainable, respectful partnerships. Our first-hand experience in environmental consulting and the energy and construction sector equips us with a deep understanding of industry challenges and community needs. 

Our diverse team—representing various age groups, genders, and ethnicities (both Indigenous and non-Indigenous) brings a wide range of perspectives, ensuring we bring adaptive solutions tailored to your specific goals.

Our services are organized into four primary pillars: Indigenous Relations, Community Engagement, Education and Awareness, and Social Impact. Whether your project is based in Canada or the United States, we offer a holistic approach that integrates local community needs and Indigenous perspectives into your business strategies, providing a one-stop solution for your community engagement and social impact needs. 

Services

Indigenous Relations

We build authentic, respectful partnerships with Indigenous communities, fostering trust and understanding to support sustainable, mutually beneficial relationships.

Community Engagement

Through meaningful dialogue and collaboration, we help clients connect with local communities, aligning project goals with community priorities to enhance social harmony and success.

Education & Awareness

We provide tailored training and workshops that deepen cultural awareness, empowering clients to approach Indigenous and community relations with respect and knowledge.

Social Impact

Our strategic guidance helps clients design impactful initiatives that drive positive change, promoting equity and resilience within the communities they engage.

Industries We Work In

Our clients seek more than transactional interactions; they aim for enduring partnerships that contribute to meaningful economic reconciliation and equitable community development. By working together, we help bridge the gap between organizational goals and community aspirations.

Engineering & Construction

Collaborating with engineering & construction firms that prioritize sustainable practices and seek to engage meaningfully with Indigenous and local communities.

Energy Sector

Partnering with energy companies dedicated to responsible development and committed to fostering respectful, community-centered relationships.

Federal Government Projects

Working alongside government agencies, we develop Indigenous Benefits Plans that help clients meet regulatory requirements while supporting meaningful community contributions.

Community Organizations

Groups devoted to enhancing community well-being and cultural integration through collaboration.

Who We've Worked With

At DHIR, we partner with clients who are committed to fostering respectful, impactful relationships with Indigenous and local communities. Our clients range from industrial construction firms and energy companies to public sector organizations and community-based groups, each sharing our vision for sustainable, community-centered growth.

What Our Clients Are Saying

Cahill Group

David Cahill, SVP
Since 2017, Danielle and her team with DHIR have been an invaluable partner in guiding us through meaningful and effective Indigenous relations practices. Her expertise was instrumental in helping us achieve PAIR Bronze in 2021 and PAIR Silver in 2024. Danielle's deep understanding of Indigenous community engagement has empowered our team to foster genuine, respectful relationships, aligning with our commitment to economic and cultural reconciliation. We are incredibly grateful for her support and look forward to continuing this important work together.

Kyndryl Canada

Mark Matheson, Vice President

Canadian Council for Indigenous Business

Luanne Whitecrow, Director PAIR
For companies and organizations looking to build out frameworks to answer TRC Calls to Action, or those that are just looking to demonstrate good reconciliation, Danielle Hartley Indigenous Relations Inc is an excellent resource to guide companies in this process. For the last decade, Danielle has been instrumental in guiding and supporting organizations looking to achieve certification in the PAR program.

Reach out to DHIR

Let's talk about how we can assist!
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