Erica Dunbar, CEO
A small business with big plans and a bigger heart.
As the founder of Optimal Insight Solutions, I built this business with a simple but powerful vision: to help Indigenous governments and not-for-profit organizations build stronger foundations—financially, operationally, and strategically.
I’ve seen firsthand how community-driven organizations are stretched thin while trying to meet urgent needs. Whether it's delivering vital services, managing complex funding, or navigating governance systems, the work is demanding—and often under-resourced.
That’s where Optimal Insight Solutions comes in.
We offer hands-on support in areas like interim CFO services, policy development, systems improvement, and team capacity building. But more than that, we bring a deep respect for the people behind the work, and a commitment to walking alongside you as a trusted partner—not just a consultant.
Our focus is on:
Indigenous governments and communities, where governance, financial stewardship, and cultural values must align.
Small and mid-sized not-for-profits, doing big work with limited resources and a lot of heart.
We understand your challenges—because we’ve been there. And we design practical, grounded solutions that make a real difference.
This is not a big firm with cookie-cutter strategies. It’s a small business built on relationships, results, and a deep belief in the power of community leadership. We’re here to listen, to adapt, and to help you build systems that truly support your mission.
Thanks for considering Optimal Insight Solutions.
We’d be honoured to be part of your journey.
About Me
Founder. Community Advocate. Strategic Problem-Solver.
I was born and raised in the quiet beauty of rural Nova Scotia, where space to breathe and a strong sense of community shaped who I am. As the oldest in a large family, I learned early the importance of showing up for others—of leading with empathy, and getting things done even when resources are tight.
In 2015, I relocated to Fort McMurray, Alberta, where I now live and work with my family. This move brought me closer to the heart of my work: supporting Indigenous governments and community-driven organizations in navigating complex challenges with clarity, structure, and purpose.
Over the years, I’ve worked with a wide range of organizations—from for-profits to grassroots non-profits, and most meaningfully, with Indigenous governments. My consulting journey has included work in policy and governance development, interim CFO and financial management roles, audit preparation, systems implementation, and leadership planning. I’ve had the privilege of walking alongside Nations and community organizations during times of transition, growth, and rebuilding.
What drives me is seeing the underdogs win—when a small organization finally gets the systems and confidence it needs, when leadership can make decisions with clarity, and when people feel empowered by the work they do instead of overwhelmed by it.
At Optimal Insight Solutions, I bring a big-picture view with grounded, actionable solutions. I know how to move from chaos to structure, from uncertainty to clarity—because I’ve done it, time and time again. My approach is deeply relational, informed by lived experience, and rooted in respect for the values, governance structures, and economic realities of Indigenous communities.
I believe every organization has the potential to thrive with the right tools, trust, and teamwork—and I’m here to help make that happen.
Photo credit: My daughter and eldest niece, both remarkable young women who excel as top-tier athletes and students. These empowering women are poised to drive change in the world.