The Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency (CanNor) will invest $2.8 million in digital literacy and artificial intelligence adoption projects in northern communities.
The funding, announced Friday by Rebecca Chartrand, Minister of Northern and Arctic Affairs and Minister Responsible for CanNor, will support four projects across Nunavut, the Northwest Territories and the Yukon.
“Our government is focused on helping businesses and communities adapt to a rapidly changing digital world,” Chartrand said. “These investments will support northern businesses, entrepreneurs and communities in exploring and adopting new technologies safely.”
Two of the four projects will take place in the Northwest Territories. One is a digital literacy, online safety and AI training program run by the Inuvik Tech Society, which will receive up to $200,000. The two‑year initiative aims to address gaps in digital skills and online safety in communities that only recently gained reliable high‑speed internet connectivity.
The other NWT project, which will receive the largest share of funding, is Prosper NWT’s AI Driven Entrepreneurship and Business Support Centre. Prosper NWT plans to develop the centre over the next three years. Once established, it will offer services to help territorial businesses safely and efficiently incorporate AI tools into their operations.
“This initiative is about empowering northern businesses to grow, adapt and thrive in a changing economy,” said Joyce Taylor, chief executive officer of Prosper NWT. “Through practical, hands‑on support for AI adoption, the centre will help businesses tackle labour challenges, streamline operations and uncover new opportunities.”
These investments aim to help northerners make the most of new technologies while staying safe in an evolving digital landscape. Through these initiatives, CanNor hopes to support the prosperity and success of northern businesses and communities.
