CanNor is investing over $730,000 to support expanded programming and workspace improvements at YK Makerspace

“Supporting community-led makerspaces facilitates collaboration and helps foster a shared vision that leads to new and innovative ideas, products, and businesses. By building strong, sustainable, and inclusive territorial economies that are driven by Northerners, we are creating better opportunities for up and coming businesses. Makerspace YK is driving economic development in the Northwest Territories by strengthening local initiatives and supporting skills development for local entrepreneurs, start-ups and creatives.”

- The Honourable Dan Vandal, Minister of Northern Affairs, PrairiesCan and CanNor

“Northerners are leaders in innovation and entrepreneurial spirit. By supporting projects like Makerspace YK, we are contributing to an initiative that gives Northerners space to explore business ideas, innovate in technology and community infrastructure and access training that leads to good paying jobs and build robust territorial economies.”

- Michael McLeod, Member of Parliament for the Northwest Territories

“Since opening, we have seen more people of all ages come in to learn new skills, prototype and launch business ventures, further their artistic practice and complete their own projects. We are very thankful for CanNor’s support to further improve the facility and deliver new and expanded programming that will enable further collaboration and innovative ideas to emerge. We are excited to see how this support will create further impact in the Yellowknife community and beyond.”

- Aileen Ling, Executive Director of Makerspace YK

• The funding announced today is provided through the Regional Economic Growth Through Innovation (REGI) program. Makerspace YK’s project workplan aligns with the objectives of the regional innovation ecosystem program stream by addressing business needs and fostering an entrepreneurial environment that promotes innovation, growth and competitiveness.

• Makerspace YK’s project includes the development of new youth programming focused on learning skills in STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and math) including digital fabrication and art, plus train-the-trainer programs to advance education on the safe and efficient use of equipment. New programming will also include skills development for aspiring entrepreneurs to advance their business ideas and piloting an annual Maker Market for emerging entrepreneurs.

• Other project activities include hiring dedicated staff to help further develop and manage new program areas and contracting a web developer and strategic consultant. These new management and consulting positions will ensure that programming is delivered professionally and safely.

• Improvements to the existing facility in Yellowknife will include door and security upgrades and external building improvements such as constructing a covered deck. Exterior modifications will improve sustainability of the facility and make the space more accessible. Other project activities include acquiring new textile equipment and equipment consumables required to upgrade the shop space.

• Total project costs are nearly $1.2 million, with additional funding being provided by Makerspace YK, Community Foundations of Canada, and support from local organizations Folk on the Rocks and the YK Artist Run Centreless Centre.

Associated links

• Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency
• Government of Canada investment aims to boost economic growth, enhance skills development and create good jobs in the Northwest Territories
• Makerspace YK

Kyle Allen
Director of Communications, Parliamentary Affairs and Issues Management
Office of the Minister of Northern Affairs, Minister Responsible for PrairiesCan, and Minister Responsible for CanNor
kyle.allen@rcaanc-cirnac.gc.ca

Emeralde O’Donnell
Communications Advisor
Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency (CanNor)
emeralde.odonnell@cannor.gc.ca

Stay connected

Follow CanNor on X (Twitter), Facebook and LinkedIn.