About Us
Our Mission
"Building resource projects with First Nations—proving they are strong, long-term investment partners".
Our Story
Since its establishment in 2016, Talon has dedicated the last decade to forming strategic partnerships with leading industry experts, showcasing a commitment to collaboration and excellence in the resource and First Nation community development industry.
"Talon was founded with the vision of bridging the gap between First Nations communities and proponents in the market space." - Robert Houle, President/Co-founder.
Recognizing a need for increased engagement and collaboration, the two founding partners brought their unique expertise together to launch Talon Resources and Community Development Inc. With a shared passion for driving positive change, they set out to make a meaningful impact and create a more connected, equitable future.
Robert Houle
Co-founder/President
Robert Houle is the Co-Founder and President of Talon Resources and Community Development Inc., a 100% First Nations–owned and led company supporting resource, mining, energy, and infrastructure proponents across Canada. An Ojibway from Mississauga First Nation, Robert brings over 30 years of experience working for and with First Nations communities, and is a recognized leader in Indigenous engagement, governance, and reconciliation in the resource sector.
Since founding Talon in 2016, Robert has helped exploration and development companies advance projects by integrating First Nations leadership, early engagement, and on-the-ground execution, guided by UNDRIP and Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC). His work emphasizes respect for Treaty rights, Title, and community-led decision-making, while creating clear, responsible pathways for project development.
Robert has worked directly with three National Chiefs and held senior roles including Ontario Regional Manager at the National Centre for First Nations Governance, Senior Advisor at Hydro One, and Lead for the Anishinaabe Lands and Housing Pilot Project. Through leadership roles on high-profile projects with companies such as Aston Minerals, Bonterra, San Gold, and MAG Silver, he has helped facilitate millions of dollars in economic participation and long-term benefits for First Nations communities, while supporting proponents in reducing risk and moving projects forward with confidence.
Ricky Houle
Business Development
Ricky Houle is the Business Development Lead at Talon Resources & Community Development Inc., where he supports company growth, strategic partnerships, and First Nations engagement across Canada’s resource sector. With a background in Business Marketing, advanced digital training, and an Osgoode Certificate in Mining Law from Osgoode Hall Law School at York University, he brings a modern, well-rounded approach to business development, relationship-building, and strategic communications.
Ricky supports First Nations engagement initiatives across Ontario, Quebec, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan, assisting with relationship-building, project coordination, and collaboration between exploration companies and First Nations communities. He also has extensive experience working with First Nations youth and early-career professionals through outreach, leadership programs, and community initiatives, helping create pathways for meaningful participation in the resource industry.
In addition to supporting engagement efforts, Ricky works with companies to explore innovative, long-term partnership models that extend beyond financial contributions—identifying opportunities for employment, skills development, community programs, and shared value that benefit both projects and local communities.
Ricky also leads Talon’s branding and digital communications, overseeing corporate presentations, educational resources, marketing initiatives, and online strategy. He is a 2026 PDAC Indigenous Youth and Early Career Ambassador, reflecting his commitment to workforce development and supporting the next generation of Indigenous leaders in the resource sector.
