Northern Ontario Construction News staff writer
The federal government is investing more than $13 million in four projects across Nunavut aimed at strengthening infrastructure, economic development and Arctic sovereignty.
Rebecca Chartrand, minister of Northern and Arctic affairs and minister responsible for Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency, announced the funding, which will support initiatives in all three regions of the territory.
The investments target both immediate community needs and long-term nation-building priorities in Canada’s Arctic, where infrastructure gaps and economic opportunities remain closely tied to sovereignty and security considerations.
In the Kitikmeot region, funding will support the Grays Bay Road and Port project, a proposed transportation corridor designed to improve access to natural resources and global markets. The project was referred to the Major Projects Office earlier this year, and the new funding will help advance environmental data collection, early planning and design, and community engagement. Previous work has been supported by Transport Canada.
In the Kivalliq region, federal dollars will continue environmental studies and engagement work for the Kivalliq Hydro-Fibre Link, a major clean energy and telecommunications project intended to connect communities and reduce reliance on diesel power.
Als, in the Qikiqtaaluk region, the funding will support business planning by Ampere and the design of a 7,222-square-foot economic development hub in Iqaluit, aimed at fostering local growth and entrepreneurship.
Additional funding will go to Sedna ROV Services for the acquisition of Arctic-capable, dual-use vehicles. The equipment will enable autonomous hydrographic surveying, enhance environmental monitoring and contribute to Arctic defence readiness.
Chartrand said the projects reflect Ottawa’s commitment to working with Inuit governments and communities to advance locally driven priorities while strengthening Canada’s presence in the North.
“These four projects reflect the Government of Canada’s commitment to working in partnership with Inuit governments and Nunavummiut to strengthen Nunavut’s economy, protect the North, and advance locally-led priorities,” she said.
Steven MacKinnon, minister of transport and leader of the government in the House of Commons, highlighted the broader impact of the Grays Bay project.
“Grays Bay Road and Port project is a nation-building investment that will unlock economic opportunities in the North and strengthen Canada’s Arctic sovereignty,” he said.
The federal government says the combined investments will help lay the foundation for long-term economic growth, improved infrastructure and stronger communities across Nunavut while reinforcing Canada’s strategic position in the Arctic.