‘Get organized,’ Minister Tells Businesses Ahead of Defence Projects

Canada’s Industry Minister, Mélanie Joly, is urging Northwest Territories businesses to prepare now if they want to benefit from upcoming federal defence and infrastructure investments in the North. Speaking at a Northwest Territories Chamber of Commerce event in Yellowknife, Joly highlighted planned Arctic defence projects, including upgrades at Yellowknife and Inuvik airports, the proposed Mackenzie Valley Highway, hydro expansion, and the Arctic Economic Security Corridor.

Joly said the federal government wants more defence contracts awarded to Canadian companies and sees strong economic potential for the North through construction, logistics, and service-sector growth. She encouraged northern businesses to organize, collaborate, and work closely with governments to ensure local companies are positioned to participate.

The article also notes concerns raised by northern leaders and residents about whether local communities will truly benefit from the spending. Issues such as housing shortages, healthcare capacity, environmental impacts, and Indigenous participation were highlighted during discussions. Sahtu MLA Danny McNeely questioned whether northern regions are adequately prepared for projects of this scale and stressed the importance of guaranteed local and Indigenous benefits.

Read the full article here on Cabin Radio.

For more information, contact President Newton Gray at:

Tel: (867) 445-7680 and Email: admin@nwtchamber.com