Backgrounder: CanNor invests in projects to strengthen Nunavut’s economy, infrastructure and Arctic security

April 22, 2026 – Iqaluit, Nunavut – Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency (CanNor)

This information adds to the news release issued on April 22, 2026 The Government of Canada invests in projects to strengthen Nunavut’s economy, infrastructure and Arctic security about CanNor’s investments, the businesses and organisations that received funding, and their projects.

The Government of Canada, through CanNor, is providing over $13 million for four projects in Nunavut. These projects will grow Nunavut’s economy, create jobs while also protecting Canada’s Arctic sovereignty.

Project information

Project: Maritime and Aerial Capability Acquisition
Recipient: Sedna ROV Services Inc.
Location: Iqaluit, Nunavut
Details: Through this project, Sedna ROV is investing in Arctic-capable equipment that can be used for both civilian and defence purposes. This includes an unmanned surface vehicle with long-range capability and supporting equipment to carry out hydrographic surveys, improve environmental monitoring, and supporting Arctic defence readiness.
CanNor contribution: Up to $4,547,305
Funding program: RDII

Project: Grays Bay Road and Port
Recipient: West Kitikmeot Resources Corp.
Location: Grays Bay, Nunavut
Details: Over the next two years, the project will gather environmental baseline information, carry out early design work to support a future feasibility study, and engage communities and stakeholders. It will include a geotechnical drilling program, land-based and marine environmental studies, and further development of engineering designs.
CanNor contribution: Up to $4,450,571
Other partners: Transport Canada, the Major Projects Office, Government of Nunavut, and Kitikmeot Corporation
Funding program: SNID

Project: Kivalliq Hydro-Fibre Link Development Phase
Recipient: Nukik Corporation
Location: Rankin Inlet, Nunavut
Details: The Nukik Corporation will lead wildlife, vegetation, aquatic, permafrost, and archaeological studies along the proposed project corridor. It will include Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit land-use and occupancy research and community engagement sessions in each affected hamlet. Funding will support technical reports and the preparation of materials required for submission to the Nunavut Planning Commission, allowing the project to move into the formal regulatory review.
CanNor contribution: Up to $3,000,000
Funding program: SNID

Project: Constructing an Economic Development Hub in Nunavut
Recipient: Pinnguaq Association (now operating as Ampere)
Location: Iqaluit, Nunavut
Details: The project will complete the design and pre-construction work for a new two-storey 7,222 square foot building in Iqaluit. When built, the facility will double Ampere’s capacity to deliver programming, helping Nunavummiut develop digital skills, start or grow businesses, and access dedicated entrepreneurship supports.
CanNor contribution: Up to $1,138,824
Funding program: IDEANorth