Labour Market News

Want to find out more about local or provincial labour market history? The labour market news archive may be a good place to start.

In this section, you can browse archived news titles, whose links are no longer functional, for up to one year from the current date. The archived news can help you understand the labour market trends in geographic areas and industries that are of interest to you.

• Week of 2026-08-17 to 2026-08-21

  • The NWT government is seeking to expand the environmental assessment for the Mackenzie Valley Highway to include the corridor between Norman Wells and the Dempster Highway. The change would allow the full Wrigley-to-Inuvik route to be reviewed through a single assessment process, reducing duplication risks and supporting more coordinated planning and development work.

    mynorthnow.com

  • The Northwest Territories Power Corporation is shutting down the Taltson Hydro Plant from August 16 to 27 to undergo annual maintenance. Work will include equipment repairs, inspections of the hydro unit, aerial transmission line surveys, and vegetation management along the corridor.

    mynorthnow.com

  • The Yellowknives Dene First Nation and the Tłı̨chǫ Government have reached an agreement on the proposed location for the Arctic Economic and Security Corridor. The route was developed using community input, traditional knowledge, and scientific research, with efforts to reduce impacts on caribou populations.

    cbc.ca

  • The federal government has approved funding to upgrade underground water and sewer infrastructure in Rae, NWT. The project aims to address issues with frozen pipes that have left some households without running water during winter. Funding was also approved for a study and upgrade of the community’s aging water intake system.

    cbc.ca

  • Air North is expanding service in Yellowknife with year-round flights to Whitehorse and Edmonton beginning in December 2026. The airline is also restoring Yellowknife-Vancouver service and adding seasonal connections to Victoria and Kelowna. Additional flights between Yellowknife and Toronto are also planned to support growing tourism demand.

    cbc.ca
• Week of 2026-08-10 to 2026-08-14

  • The federal government is providing nearly $2M through CanNor to support four Indigenous-led projects in the Northwest Territories, including up to $1M for a new North-Wright Airways hangar in Norman Wells. The funding will also support expanded timber harvesting operations, improved business management systems, and an entrepreneurship program for Indigenous youth.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The federal government has approved the Northwest Territories’ request to redirect $65M in previously committed funding toward early work on the Mackenzie Valley Highway, including road upgrades, bridge projects, and planning activities. The funding will allow priority infrastructure work to move forward while environmental reviews and regulatory approvals for the larger highway project continue.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The federal government has committed up to $49.5M to upgrade Inuvik’s Mike Zubko Airport, including resurfacing the runway and paving the access road to improve reliability, accommodate growing traffic and cargo volumes, and increase resilience to northern conditions such as melting permafrost.

    cbc.ca

  • The Northwest Territories’ allocation under the Nominee Program has increased by 103 spaces, bringing the 2026 total to 300 nominees. The increase restores the territory’s allocation to previous levels and has prompted the NWT government to add an additional expression of interest draw on August 26.

    www.gov.nt.ca

  • Rio Tinto has begun filling the open pits at the Diavik Diamond Mine as part of ongoing reclamation activities. Water from Lac de Gras is being used to fill the pits, a process expected to take six to 12 months. Once water quality meets regulatory requirements, the pits will be reconnected to the lake. Mine closure activities remain on track for completion by 2030.

    mynorthnow.com

  • The NWT government has approved a request from Diavik diamond mine to shut down the Environmental Monitoring Advisory Board by March 2027. The board was established under the mine’s environmental agreement to oversee environmental monitoring and regulatory processes. The board’s operations will conclude following the end of commercial production at the mine.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The Inuvik Regional Hospital is suspending labour and delivery services from August 15 to August 23 due to staffing shortages. Patients who go into labour or require pre-and-post natal assessments during this period are advised to seek assistance through the hospital’s emergency department.

    cbc.ca

  • The Aurora Veterinary Hospital in Yellowknife is adding a second veterinarian on August 17, doubling its veterinary capacity. The clinic, currently operating from a temporary location while a new facility is under construction, expects the new building to be completed in time for the veterinarian’s arrival. The Aurora Veterinary Hospital is the only veterinary clinic in the Northwest Territories.

    cbc.ca

  • The NWT government has made its Commercial Fishery Support Program permanent, streamlining access to funding for commercial fishers. The program provides fuel rebates, production incentives, startup funding, and support for equipment, recruitment, and training. The Hay River fish plant has also received federal accreditation, allowing locally processed fish to be sold outside the territory.

    www.gov.nt.ca
• Week of 2026-08-03 to 2026-08-07

  • The NWT’s minimum wage will increase from $16.95 to $17.20 per hour effective September 1, 2026. The annual adjustment is based on changes in the Consumer Price Index and the average hourly wage for 2025.

    www.gov.nt.ca
• Week of 2026-07-27 to 2026-07-31

  • Golden Pursuit Resources Ltd. has begun its 2026 exploration program at the Gordon Lake gold district in the NWT. Work will include UAV magnetic surveys, rock sampling, and geochemical analysis aimed at improving the geological understanding of the property, while identifying prospective target areas and guiding future exploration activities.

    juniorminingnetwork.com

  • Five new modular duplexes have been unveiled in a new subdivision in Łutselk'e, N.W.T. The project received $1.5M from the territorial government and just over $1M from Housing NWT through its Community Housing Support Initiative. Property oversight and maintenance is currently managed by band administrative staff as the First Nation works towards establishing a formal housing department.

    cbc.ca

  • The federal and NWT governments are jointly providing over $655M to support affordable housing and critical infrastructure projects across the territory. The agreement includes at least 560 new housing units, alongside further funding for housing, post-secondary education, and health infrastructure. The NWT will also receive $18.7M through the Build Communities Strong Fund in 2026-27.

    canada.ca

  • Larga Kitikmeot is constructing a new 75-room boarding home in Yellowknife to support Inuit travelling for medical care. The facility is expected to open in summer 2027 and will include accessible rooms, expanded common areas, children's play spaces, and private washrooms. Additional staff have been hired to help with the transition from the current boarding home to the new facility.

    nunatsiaq.com
• Week of 2026-07-20 to 2026-07-24

  • The Nahɂą Dehé Dene Band has completed a feasibility study for a proposed bridge across the Liard River near Nahanni Butte. The $150M to $200M project would provide year-round access to the community after winter roads thaw, helping reduce transportation costs for goods. The community is currently exploring funding options.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The vacancy rate for registered nurses has reached a two-year low in the Northwest Territories, which the government says is the result of ongoing efforts in recruitment, retention, staff training, and the expansion of virtual health care. However, challenges remain in the NWT and across the North. The three territories together have the highest health-care occupation vacancy rate in the country, at 7.8%, and recruiting sufficient numbers of doctors continues to be a struggle.

    cbc.ca

  • Inclusion NWT is seeking additional funding from the NWT government, stating the organization could face closure without increased support. The funding would help sustain its supported living program, which provides 24/7 care and assistance for people with disabilities, enabling them to live independently.

    cabinradio.ca

  • Polar Knowledge Canada and the Government of the Northwest Territories are funding 26 research project on cumulative impacts: the effects of human activities on ecosystems. This includes $600,000 for six projects specifically on road development their impacts of caribou, fish, and water.

    mynorthnow.com

  • Beginning in December 2026, Air North will introduce a new year-round route that connects Yellowknife, Edmonton, and Whitehorse. The airline says it hopes to facilitate more business travel between Whitehorse and Yellowknife.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The Copperhouse restaurant and catering company will no longer run the restaurant at the Yellowknife Golf Club, having chosen to end its 2026 contact early. It is unclear how or whether food and beverage services will continue for the remainder of the season.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The YK Street Support Network is launching a new transportation program to help people experiencing homelessness attend medical and dental appointments. The service will operate by appointment only and will not provide on-demand trips to emergency departments or shelters.

    cabinradio.ca
• Week of 2026-07-13 to 2026-07-17

  • The Ekati diamond mine in the Northwest Territories appears set to shut down and enter receivership after attracting no bids in a court-supervised sales process. Its owner, the Arctic Canadian Diamond Company, entered creditor protection in May amid difficulties in the global diamond market. Insolvency firm PricewaterhouseCoopers will manage the receivership, including issuing layoff notices to staff.

    cabinradio.ca

  • West Point First Nation and Łutsël K’é Dene First Nation have completed two new community housing projects, creating a total of 26 new homes. Ten of the homes are located in Łutsël K’é Dene First Nation and 16 in Hay River.

    mynorthnow.com

  • The City of Yellowknife is accepting applications for its Reaching Home program, which funds projects aimed at addressing homelessness. Up to $300,000 is available for eligible projects, which can include support services for individuals as well as capital investments in building or renovating housing.

    yellowknife.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $860,000 over two years to support services for Francophone and bilingual immigrants in the Northwest Territories – specifically in Yellowknife, Inuvik, and the South Slave region.

    yellowknifer.com
• Week of 2026-07-06 to 2026-07-10

  • Avens, a Yellowknife seniors’ organization, has raised over $673,000 to enhance activity spaces at its Pavilion housing complex. The 102-unit building opened in 2025.

    cabinradio.ca

  • An on-the-land wellness camp in Yellowknife formerly operated by the Arctic Indigenous Wellness Foundation is now under new ownership. The Tree of Peace Friendship Centre says it plans to continue the camp’s previous programming, eventually adding an aftercare program for people completing addictions or mental health treatment.

    cbc.ca

  • The Government of Canada is providing $500,000 to NWT Tourism for a two-year project aimed at promoting the territory’s Indigenous tourism businesses to international markets.

    cabinradio.ca

  • Ten modular homes constructed in Hay River are being shipped by barge to Ulukhaktok. They are the first units in a project by Housing NWT that will see 98 prefabricated homes distributed to communities across the territory.

    cabinradio.ca

  • Mountain Province Diamonds, which owns 49% of the Gahcho Kue Diamond mine, has announced it will be delisting its shares from the Toronto Stock Exchange in the coming weeks. Last month, the company said it would be pursuing restructuring or refinancing options amid persistently low diamond prices.

    nwtnews-north.com
• Week of 2026-06-29 to 2026-07-03

  • The Government of Canada is providing up to $50M to the Tłı̨chǫ Government and Fortune Minerals to build an access road to the NICO mine near Whatì. The federal government is also allocating $733K to Cando Arctic Nexus in Enterprise, $200K to support a Tłı̨chǫ-led traditional knowledge study, and $200K to support research on caribou impacts.

    cbc.ca

  • The federal government is providing over $1.2M to the Yellowknife Airport through the Airports Capital Assistance Program to design and install a runway end safety area for Runway 16.

    canada.ca
• Week of 2026-06-22 to 2026-06-26

  • The Inuvialuit Regional Corporation has opened a new transitional housing and recovery program home in Inuvik. The facility provides second stage transitional housing and support for men leaving addiction treatment, and includes services focused on continuing recovery, gaining life skills, and developing long-term housing stability.

    mynorthnow.com
• Week of 2026-06-08 to 2026-06-12

  • The proposed Taltson hydro expansion, which will connect the North and South Slave regions, is expected to add 60MW to the Twin Gorges facility and more than 320km of transmission line. Valued at $2B–$3B, the project will create 500–700 jobs during the construction period, prioritizing Northern and Indigenous labour. Construction is targeted to begin by 2029, with operations anticipated by 2033–34.

    yellowknifer.com

  • The Hay River Heritage Centre reopened June 10 after being closed since 2022 due to flooding. The Hay River Museum Society, which runs the heritage centre, is also developing a five-year capital and tourism business plan to guide future initiatives and operations.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The proposed Taltson hydro expansion, which will connect the North and South Slave regions, is expected to add 60MW to the Twin Gorges facility and more than 320km of transmission line. Valued at $2B–$3B, the project will create 500–700 jobs during the construction period, prioritizing Northern and Indigenous labour. Construction is targeted to begin by 2029, with operations anticipated by 2033–34.

    yellowknifer.com

  • The Hay River Heritage Centre reopened June 10 after being closed since 2022 due to flooding. The Hay River Museum Society, which runs the heritage centre, is also developing a five-year capital and tourism business plan to guide future initiatives and operations.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The Hay River library reopened June 9 after closing on April 30. Short-term staffing has been secured, and the library will offer limited services including book access, online resources, and internet use.

    mynorthnow.com

  • Sahtu, Gwich’in, and Pehdzéh Kı̨ leaders have signed a memorandum of understanding to advance the Mackenzie Valley Highway project. The agreement establishes a coordinated Indigenous framework to co-develop, plan, and govern the proposed all-season road connecting the three communities.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The Hay River library reopened June 9 after closing on April 30. Short-term staffing has been secured, and the library will offer limited services including book access, online resources, and internet use.

    mynorthnow.com

  • Sahtu, Gwich’in, and Pehdzéh Kı̨ leaders have signed a memorandum of understanding to advance the Mackenzie Valley Highway project. The agreement establishes a coordinated Indigenous framework to co-develop, plan, and govern the proposed all-season road connecting the three communities.

    cabinradio.ca

  • Construction is underway on the Dehk’è Frank Channel Bridge Replacement Project in the NWT, with work currently focused on foundation and structural components. The new bridge, which is slated to open in fall 2027, will improve safety and remove height and weight limits. Full project completion is expected by fall 2028.

    mynorthnow.com

  • Construction is underway on the Dehk’è Frank Channel Bridge Replacement Project in the NWT, with work currently focused on foundation and structural components. The new bridge, which is slated to open in fall 2027, will improve safety and remove height and weight limits. Full project completion is expected by fall 2028.

    mynorthnow.com

  • The federal and NWT governments have signed a three-year agreement under the Oral Health Access Fund to provide $3M to repair and replace aging equipment in health centres across the territory. The first year will focus on assessments and planning, with repairs following in Beaufort Delta and Sahtu over the final two years.

    mynorthnow.com

  • The Town of Inuvik has approved plans by the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation to develop a youth centre and residential area on the former Blueberry Patch site. The project includes housing, a youth centre, daycare space, family support programming, and offices. Demolition of contaminated buildings onsite is set to begin later this year.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The federal and NWT governments have signed a three-year agreement under the Oral Health Access Fund to provide $3M to repair and replace aging equipment in health centres across the territory. The first year will focus on assessments and planning, with repairs following in Beaufort Delta and Sahtu over the final two years.

    mynorthnow.com

  • The Town of Inuvik has approved plans by the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation to develop a youth centre and residential area on the former Blueberry Patch site. The project includes housing, a youth centre, daycare space, family support programming, and offices. Demolition of contaminated buildings onsite is set to begin later this year.

    cabinradio.ca
• Week of 2026-06-01 to 2026-06-05

  • The federal government is providing $6.5M to upgrade the Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre in Yellowknife. The project will improve accessibility through enhancements to ramps, lifts, stairs, and the auditorium, supporting greater public access to galleries, archives, and cultural spaces.

    canada.ca

  • The Hay River District Education Authority will be discontinuing school bus service in the 2026–27 school year due to reduced federal funding and declining enrolment.

    cabinradio.ca

  • A new Interpreter Career Pathway Program has launched in the NWT, selecting eight Indigenous language speakers for training. The program runs from May 2026 to March 2027 and includes in-person training, mentorship, and shadowing to prepare participants for roles with the Northwest Territories Legislative Assembly.

    mynorthnow.com

  • Lil Ava’s Pizza and Pasta has opened a new location in Hay River’s Caribou Centre on May 20. The new restaurant is currently operating with a limited menu, but a full menu expansion is expected by the end of June.

    yellowknifer.com
• Week of 2026-05-25 to 2026-05-29

  • Collège Nordique Francophone is launching a new business diploma program in the NWT this September in partnership with Collège La Cité. The program, which is also offered online, includes a mandatory 420 hour internship with a Francophone organization.

    mynorthnow.com

  • Housing NWT and the Fort Smith Métis Council are building a new social housing duplex in Fort Smith as part of a broader initiative to repair and replace aging social housing units across the territory. Construction will continue through the summer, with foundation and framing work already complete.

    www.gov.nt.ca

  • The federal government is providing $250K to the Dechinta Centre for Research and Learning to support a two-year project researching the viability of a northern co-operative economy. The initiative will examine Indigenous economic models and explore opportunities for co-operative approaches in sectors such as tourism, food security, and cultural programming.

    cabinradio.ca

  • Tim Hortons and its franchise owners are spending $400M to build and renovate 480 locations across Canada. Plans include one new location in the NWT and upgrades to an existing Nunavut site, featuring improved layouts, updated kitchen equipment, and enhanced digital ordering systems.

    retail-insider.com

  • Rackla Metals Inc. has received a five-year land use permit for its Lentung project in the NWT’s Tombstone Tungsten Belt, allowing for a 49-person camp to be set up and mineral exploration activities. The 2026 field program, which began on May 26, consists of drilling, surface trenching, and repairing the existing access routes.

    racklametals.com

  • A new medical clinic in Inuvik run by the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation is slated to open in 2027. The facility will offer both dental and physician services through a team of rotating dentists, physicians, hygienists, and dental therapists.

    cbc.ca
• Week of 2026-05-18 to 2026-05-22

  • The federal government is providing over $13M to a Northwestel project aimed at expanding high-speed internet access to up to 869 Indigenous households across nine NWT communities. Delivered through the Universal Broadband Fund, the project will use Telesat’s satellite technology to improve Internet connectivity in rural and remote communities across the territory.

    canada.ca

  • Fortune Minerals Limited has received approvals for a land use permit and water licence to build and operate the NICO Project Access Road in the NWT. The road will connect the planned NICO mine to the territorial highway, facilitating the mine’s construction and operations by allowing the transport of metal concentrates to a facility in Alberta for processing.

    fortuneminerals.com

  • The federal government is providing $5.4M to support patient- and community-driven health research in the NWT and Yukon until March 2028, following a $4.8M commitment for similar research in Nunavut from 2024 to 2029. The funding will allow regional research hubs to deliver training, community engagement, and Indigenous-led health initiatives across all three territories.

    canada.ca

  • Construction has begun on the Redknife River Bridge along Highway 1 in NWT. Work is expected to continue until October 2026.

    mynorthnow.com

  • The City of Yellowknife has approved the construction of Stanton Express, a new 90‑room, four‑storey hotel along Old Airport Road. Additionally, the owner of the nearby Explorer Hotel is proposing to add a separate 150‑room building adjacent to its existing hotel.

    cabinradio.ca
• Week of 2026-05-11 to 2026-05-15

  • The federal government is providing an additional $60M in financing to Arctic Canadian Diamond Company to keep the Ekati mine operating while it seeks a buyer. While court‑approved creditor protection has extended to late July, the company expects to use most of the funds to sustain operations through November.

    cabinradio.ca

  • Rio Tinto has applied for a four-year permit to begin copper exploration in the NWT’s Sahtu region this summer. Up to 15 workers are expected to be on site conducting initial scope work, such as aerial and ground surveys, sampling, staking, prospecting, and geological mapping. Permanent infrastructure and drilling activities are not currently being proposed at this stage.

    cabinradio.ca

  • Construction is underway on two new modular duplexes in Fort Simpson, set for delivery this summer as part of a larger project to replace aging social housing in nine NWT communities. The $150M, three-year initiative, will focus on procurement and planning in 2025/2026 and will shift to production, site development and completions through 2027/2028.

    www.gov.nt.ca
• Week of 2026-05-04 to 2026-05-08

  • Joseph Burr Tyrrell Elementary in Fort Smith will be discontinuing French Immersion programming for the 2026–27 school year due to funding cuts and staffing losses. The school cited the reduction of teaching and support positions and financial resource constraints as making the program unsustainable.

    cbc.ca

  • Burgundy Diamond Mines, the owner of the Ekati mine in the NWT, has entered creditor protection, just months after receiving a $175M federal loan. Despite the company remaining behind on regulatory obligations and payments to Indigenous nations, Arctic Canadian Diamond Company, Burgundy’s subsidiary that operates the Ekati mine, plans to continue operating while restructuring proceeds.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The NWT government has begun construction on a new $30M Territorial Wildfire Centre in Fort Smith. The facility will serve as the territory’s wildfire management hub, providing technical support and warehousing capacity while ensuring continuous operations and coordination throughout disasters.

    www.gov.nt.ca

  • Imperial Oil plans to shut down the Norman Wells oil field operations over four weeks between mid-August and mid-September 2026, while transitioning the community’s power to NWT Power Corporation. Decommissioning will continue into summer 2027, followed by three to five years of care and maintenance before full closure work begins.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The NWT government is providing at least $30M to strengthen student supports following a territory wide Inclusive Schooling Review. Starting in 2026–27, funding will support assistants, teachers, and therapeutic services, while improving early screening and coordination with health services for referrals and follow-up.

    www.gov.nt.ca

  • Housing NWT has begun demolition work at the former Hilltop Apartments site in Yellowknife. Although project plans have not been finalized, the agency intends to build a mix of social and transitional housing.

    cabinradio.ca

  • Five new modular housing units have arrived in Behchokǫ̀ for on site assembly, replacing the aging Housing NWT units. The project includes a three-bedroom home and a modular fourplex, built in Hay River through partnerships with Tłı̨chǫ Community Builders and METCAN. The new accessible and energy efficient homes aim to improve housing quality and sustainability in the community.

    www.gov.nt.ca
• Week of 2026-04-27 to 2026-05-01

  • The City of Whitehorse is resuming renovations on the Mount McIntyre Recreation Centre in April as part of a $4.3M initiative to enhance accessibility and modernize facilities in the city. The first phase of work, completed in fall 2025, featured several energy-efficient upgrades and accessible improvements, while the second phase includes the addition of a new lobby and renovated changerooms.

    yukon-news.com

  • The RCMP detachment in Inuvik has reached full staffing for the first time in several years, with all 16 officer positions filled. Although the RCMP plans on having extra staff over the summer season, staffing levels may fluctuate due to transfers, retirements, and training needs.

    cabinradio.ca

  • Pan American Energy Corp. has completed its 2026 drill program at the Tharsis Project in the NWT and has successfully demobilized from the Squalus Lake camp. Going forward, the technical team will now focus on geological logging, sampling for assay analysis, and processing the collected geological data.

    panam-energy.com
• Week of 2026-04-20 to 2026-04-24

  • North Chocolate has opened a new store located on Woolgar Avenue in Yellowknife. The store sells an assortment of chocolates, gelato, and cookies.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The Northwest Territories Health and Social Services Authority is launching a new nursing pilot program in Yellowknife to enhance health care coordination and reduce medical travel expenses. Three medical travel nurse case managers will be hired to oversee patient referrals and evaluate virtual care options over the next two years. Recruitment for these roles are currently in progress.

    mynorthnow.com

  • The Department of National Defence is planning to spend between $5B to $8B on a major expansion at Yellowknife Airport. The project includes upgrading the main runway, constructing hangers, expanding military accommodations, and adding new facilities to support military operations. Construction is set to begin in 2030, with completion expected by 2040.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The NWT Teachers’ Association has confirmed that 13 teachers in Inuvik are facing layoffs, amounting to about a quarter of the town’s teaching workforce. The cuts stem from recent changes to federal funding under the Jordan’s Principle, which may also impact support assistant positions in other Beaufort Delta communities. The layoffs will not take effect until the end of the academic year in July.

    cabinradio.ca

  • Air Canada is suspending direct flights between Yellowknife and Toronto starting September 1. The airline cites high and unpredictable jet fuel costs as a factor to this decision.

    cbc.ca

  • The Hay River public library will close on May 1 until further notice, following the decision by the Hay River Library Committee to step down from overseeing local library services. A new committee is being proposed, with the town offering administrative support and library funding once the new committee is established. Further discussions will be held on April 27.

    cbc.ca

  • The federal and NWT governments are jointly providing $1.5M over three years through the Canada–Northwest Territories Workforce Tariff Response to support NWT residents impacted by US tariffs and global market shifts. The funding supports employment resource enhancements, various training options, and financial assistance to help residents retrain, upskill, and transition into new job opportunities.

    canada.ca

  • The next draw for the NWT Nominee Program’s Employer Driven Stream will be on June 25, with profiles due by June 22. The new expression of interest system began this year, and in the first draw in March, 65 out of 295 submitted profiles were selected. The unselected profiles will remain in the pool for 12 months for consideration in future draws.

    www.gov.nt.ca

  • The Town of Norman Wells is transitioning from locally sourced diesel to diesel provided by the Northwest Territories Power Corporation (NTPC). The local facility will close this summer, and a new NTPC-owned unit will replace it a few months later. While no new jobs will be created during the transition, there will be increased maintenance work for existing staff and contractors.

    mynorthnow.com

  • The federal government is providing up to $1.5M over three years to the Nihtat Gwich’in Council to establish the Nihtat Operations, Readiness & Training Hub. The initiative aims to train local Gwich’in suppliers and workers for jobs and procurement in defence-related activities by providing various resources and targeted skills training in Inuvik.

    canada.ca
• Week of 2026-04-13 to 2026-04-17

  • The NWT government has begun plans for a new RCMP detachment in Délı̨nę by issuing a request for proposals to survey and perform geotechnical work on the chosen site. The selected consultant will evaluate potential foundation requirements and environmental liabilities, with preliminary assessments anticipated by the end of the year. A construction timeline has not been provided.

    cabinradio.ca

  • Housing NWT has built a new three-bedroom modular duplex in Paulatuk, creating two additional social housing units to replace older units that have reached the end of their service life. The new duplex was prefabricated and transported to Paulatuk for on-site assembly. The project is part of ongoing efforts to address housing needs in the Beaufort Delta region and other remote communities.

    www.gov.nt.ca

  • De Beers is planning to close the Gahcho Kué diamond mine in 2028, in addition to pausing its Tuzo Phase 3 expansion plans due to market challenges. While there is potential for reintroducing the expansion if market conditions improve, current outlooks do not suggest turnaround. This has led to considerations in laying off 5% of its 850-people workforce — consisting of 600 staff and 250 contractors.

    cabinradio.ca

  • Rheumatology services are set to return to the NWT this summer, after nearly four years of having patients referred to Alberta for treatment. The NWT’s health authority is currently developing a program to provide in-territory rheumatology services for residents in partnership with Alberta Health Services, pending final approval. The program is scheduled to start this summer.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The NWT government has increased payments under the Genuine Mackenzie Valley Fur Program to promote harvesting and trapping. Grubstake payments for certain furs have risen to $10 per pelt, while the Prime Fur Bonus for beaver pelts is now $35. In addition to guaranteeing trappers a set price for prime furs, the program also covers the associated costs of selling furs at auction.

    www.gov.nt.ca

  • Burgundy Diamond Mines, the owner of the Ekati diamond mine, has fallen behind on payments to Indigenous groups in the NWT, being over a year late on its payments. Despite the company laying off hundreds of staff last year and receiving two federally backed loans, the mine is still struggling to meet regulatory requirements.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The City of Yellowknife is proposing a new community plan to build 1,000 housing units on greenfield sites near Frame Lake. In addition to the mixed-use development, the plan also features provisions for temporary worker accommodation and a new highway commercial area for services such as truck stops and restaurants. The city is aiming to finalized and submit the proposal by July 2026.

    cabinradio.ca

  • Cabin Radio is offering a three-month multimedia production fellowship staring June 2 at its Yellowknife studio. Participants will earn $27.50 per hour over a 30-hour workweek, with those relocating to Yellowknife entitled to a $1000 housing bursary to assist with accommodation costs. Only members of First Nations, Métis, Inuit, and Black or racialized communities in the NWT are eligible to apply.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The NWT government has released its new five-year tourism strategy on April 8, focusing on priorities such enhancing workforce development, improving visitor experiences, expanding sustainable tourism options, strengthening marketing efforts. The plan also emphasizes the use of data for better decision-making and progress tracking.

    cabinradio.ca
• Week of 2026-04-06 to 2026-04-10

  • Inuvik's East Three Elementary School is discontinuing French immersion in the next academic year due to teacher shortages and declining enrolment. Although the school will continue to offer a daily 90-minute block of French language instruction for select courses, the changes are expected to affect 23 students and two French immersion teachers.

    cabinradio.ca

  • Rideshare company Uride is planning to launch services in Yellowknife, aiming to provide safe, affordable, and reliable transportation to smaller communities. The company is offering prospective drivers with either a $1,000 sign-on bonus or a $1,500 earnings guarantee over the first four weeks. Details regarding the launch date has not been announced.

    cabinradio.ca

  • Promise for the North, a charity focused on improving living conditions in the territories, is currently upgrading the Tsiigehtchic community’s greenhouse. The upgrades include insulating the greenhouse and installing a heater and solar-powered lights, which will enable the facility to be operational year-round and produce 3,000kg of food annually. Two new greenhouses will also be added by August.

    cabinradio.ca

  • Nunastar is proposing to build a new 150-room business class hotel in Yellowknife. The five-storey hotel will feature a restaurant, lounge, meeting rooms, and a fitness centre, with the potential for adding a rooftop deck and additional guest amenities. A development permit application is currently under review with the city.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The federal government is providing $19.2M through the Affordable Housing Fund to help build 40 new homes in Inuvik. The development will operate as subsidized, low-cost rental housing and consist of four-plexes and duplexes with 20 two-bedroom units and 20 single units. The NWT government will also be allocating funds to the project, although the amount has not been specified.

    cmhc-schl.gc.ca

  • The NWT government is planning a series of upgrades to the Yellowknife airport, including work to enhance the existing terminal, expand the washrooms, and install new security screening technology. Starting this summer, additional projects will also get underway, including the implementation of a new passenger processing system, repairs to runways and taxiways, and patching the main terminal's apron.

    cbc.ca
• Week of 2026-03-30 to 2026-04-03

  • The federal government is setting aside $230M to expand the Indigenous Guardians Program and establish a new Arctic Indigenous Guardians Program. Of the funding, $90M will be allotted to support wood bison population recovery efforts along the Alberta-Northwest Territories border, in addition to addressing environmental issues affecting the Wood Buffalo National Park.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The federal government is allocating up to $5.4M for infrastructure development in Inuvik, matching the town’s funding for a total of about $10.9M over three years. The funding go towards upgrading core water and wastewater infrastructure, such as improving the sewage lagoon system and constructing a new water tower and bulk water station.

    canada.ca

  • The federal government is providing up to $1.75M to support five community projects in enhancing food security in the NWT. The funding will help the communities in acquiring the infrastructure and tools needed to grow, process, and prepare locally produced foods.

    canada.ca

  • The NWT government has allocated over $95,000 to three Indigenous organizations under the Local Food Infrastructure Fund to enhance local food systems in the region. The funding will go towards purchasing equipment and supplies to increase harvesting capacity, expand community gardening infrastructure, and improve access to nutritious food in northern communities.

    mynorthnow.com

  • The Diavik diamond mine has officially ended production after 23 years, having mined over 150 million carats of diamond over its lifetime. Active closure work will continue until 2029, with plans to employ around 100-200 workers and contractors during this period. Afterwards, a monitoring phase will follow until approximately 2040.

    mynorthnow.com
• Week of 2026-03-23 to 2026-03-27

  • The NWT government has recently launched a new Interpreter Career Pathway Program to train next generation of Indigenous language interpreters for the legislature. The program will run from May 2026 to March 2027, allowing participants to receive paid training and mentorship in one of the of eight official Indigenous languages. Application will be accepted until April 26.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The federal government is providing up to $600K to the Northern Safety Association to move 30 training courses online. The courses will be available to workers across the NWT and Nunavut and will cover workplace safety, including task-specific training and mental wellness support.

    canada.ca

  • Housing NWT has completed a hybrid housing project in Délı̨nę, adding two new modular duplexes for social housing. The prefabricated cores were manufactured off-site elsewhere in the NWT, while local workers and subcontractors finished the remaining construction on site. The new homes aim to relieve pressure on existing social housing units that are nearing the end of their service life.

    www.gov.nt.ca

  • The federal government will be continuing remediation work at the NWT’s Giant Mine throughout 2026. While several key safety initiatives and the demolition of the town site have already been completed, current activities will include constructing a new water treatment plant, remediating contaminated soil, and decontaminating the mill building. The treatment plant is expected to be operational by 2027.

    yellowknifer.com

  • Nova Builders is planning to build a new 90-room hotel on Old Airport Road in Yellowknife. The four-storey project has been submitted for city review and will include a restaurant in the floor plans.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The federal government is allocating $17.2M over two years to support the production and broadcasting of Indigenous audio and video content through the Northern Aboriginal Broadcasting program. The funding includes $872K for the Native Communications Society of the Northwest Territories to produce traditional storytelling and culturally appropriate radio programming.

    canada.ca

  • The federal government is providing $4.8M to support five NWT projects through the Indigenous Languages Program. The funding supports early childhood and adult immersion, multimedia content, and community activities to increase Indigenous language use and speakers across the territory.

    canada.ca

  • Unionized workers at the Hay River Health and Social Services Authority have voted against becoming GNWT employees by the end of March 2027. The proposal, discussed in February and outlined in a memorandum of understanding, was rejected ahead of the new collective bargaining. The union plans to meet with the employer to discuss other means of migrating to the GNWT.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The City of Yellowknife has approved an engineering agreement with the federal government to improve water and sewer service at the city’s airport. The Department of National Defence will be funding the scoping work needed, which is expected to cost about $15M. Construction will follow once engineering work is completed.

    cbc.ca
• Week of 2026-03-16 to 2026-03-20

  • The NWT’s Diavik diamond mine has announced that their last day of ore production will be on March 24. Decommissioning and active closure activities will take place between 2026 to 2029, after which post-closure monitoring will continue until 2040.

    cabinradio.ca

  • Pan American Energy Corp. has begun diamond drilling at its Tharsis Project in the NWT, marking a key transition from surface exploration. The winter 2026 program plans for about 1,500 metres of drilling to test the critical mineral potential of the project at depth. Additional updates and drilling progress will be provided when available.

    panam-energy.com

  • The NWT government has created a new associate deputy minister role in the Department of Industry, Tourism and Investment to focus on economic strategy and policy. The new position will help coordinate economic policy across departments and lead development on a long-term territorial economic strategy.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The Town of Hay River has been informed by the NWT government that it will no longer fund the head librarian position. The local library committee plans to stop operations by April 30 unless another organization takes over. The town is considering taking over but is waiting for formal notice before determining next steps.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The Taltson hydro facility has recently resumed operation, after closing in January to repair the surge tank. In addition to the $36M repair, Taltson is planning a larger overhaul project which is expected to cost approximately $101.9M.

    cbc.ca

  • A new winter road just outside Yellowknife has been completed to facilitate equipment transport to Mon Mine as Sixty North Gold prepares to reopen the mine after nearly 30 years. The mill assembly is scheduled for late April, marking the first gold production in the area since 2004 when Giant Mine closed.

    cbc.ca
• Week of 2026-03-23 to 2026-03-27

  • The federal government is spending $35B over the next decade to support Arctic defence and Northern infrastructure. The funding will go towards building military air bases, improving defence facilities, and upgrading airports. Additionally, three northern projects have been recommended to the Major Projects Office: Mackenzie Valley Highway, Arctic Economic Security Corridor, and Taltson Hydro Expansion.

    ctvnews.ca
• Week of 2026-03-16 to 2026-03-20

  • Housing NWT has completed the construction of four new social housing units in Fort McPherson, including two three-bedroom modular duplexes. These units aim to increase the availability of family-sized social housing and will replace older housing stock in the community.

    cabinradio.ca

  • Construction on the Mackenzie Valley Highway will start this summer, with the first phase focusing on building an all-season road from Wrigley to Norman Wells, followed by an extension to Inuvik in the second phase. The project is one of three major initiatives in the NWT, alongside the Arctic economic and security corridor and the Taltson Hydro expansion.

    cbc.ca

  • Burgundy Diamond Mines has secured a $60M loan from the federal government to support operations at its Ekati mine, following a previous $115M loan last December to avoid bankruptcy. This funding is crucial for the company as it navigates the challenging natural diamond market. The company has already paused some of its operations and laid off 300 workers back in November 2025.

    idexonline.com

  • The Apprenticeship, Trade and Occupation Certification Board is seeking applications for Employee and Employer Representatives to serve a two- or three-year term. The Board is seeing individuals with interest and experience in the training and certification of apprentices, trades and occupations, in addition to being able to commit to quarterly meetings and additional sessions as needed.

    www.gov.nt.ca
• Week of 2026-03-09 to 2026-03-13

  • The NWT Nominee Program has opened its Employer-Driven and Francophone Streams intakes. The first expression of interest (EOI) draw will be held on March 25, inviting up to 65 eligible candidates to apply. While future draw dates remain unknown, the NWT government plans to hold several EOI draws this year, in addition to accepting Francophone stream applications on a first-come, first-served basis.

    cicnews.com

  • The Northwest Territory Métis Nation and the Métis National Council have signed a memorandum of understanding, creating a partnership to collaborate and strengthen coordination between the federal and Métis governments. The agreement aims to ensure Métis in the NWT have a stronger voice in federal policy discussions and national advocacy.

    cbc.ca

  • Innovate, a makerspace and digital media workshop space in Inuvik, is closing at the end of March due to a lack of funding. Although the facility previously received funding through the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada, a renewal for last year was not granted.

    cabinradio.ca

  • Housing NWT has awarded a $17.9M contract to Northern Industrial Construction Ltd. for a new 30-unit residential building in Hay River. Construction is slated to start in summer 2026, with substantial completion by March 31, 2028. The project aims to replace an old 28-unit complex with a modern, energy-efficient facility. The old complex will be demolished once residents move into the new building.

    yellowknifer.com

  • The NWT government has passed its 2026-27 budget with an additional $40M in spending. About $30M of the extra funding will go towards improving schooling, including expanding services like speech-language support and early literacy screening. Additional spending also targets healthcare staffing, medical access in smaller communities, support for Aurora College programs, and community initiatives.

    cabinradio.ca

  • Burgundy, owner of the Ekati diamond mine, has requested an extension on regulatory commitments due to ongoing cashflow issues, despite recently receiving a $115M federal loan. The company is struggling to pay contractors upfront and is also facing significant costs related to the winter road season used for resupply.

    cabinradio.ca

  • Fortune Minerals announced that its Nico project, located just outside of Whatì, has shifted its focus from cobalt and gold to bismuth due to market demand. With China controlling 80% of the global bismuth supply and recent export restrictions, the company plans to produce 1,700 tonnes of bismuth annually alongside cobalt, gold and copper at the Nico site.

    cabinradio.ca

  • Colville Lake recently received three modular buildings, two classrooms and a bathroom, after waiting since February 2024 due to delivery challenges and delays. The classrooms will provide a temporary learning space for the community until a new permanent school is build on a former airport runway.

    cabinradio.ca

  • Plans for the Mackenzie Valley Highway, which would replace the winter route between Wringley and Norman Wells, are progressing but funding depends on whether the road can be extended to Inuvik. The first phase to Normal Wells is estimated to cost $1.65B, with an additional $2B for further planning and construction to Inuvik. The project is currently under environmental assessment.

    cbc.ca
• Week of 2026-03-02 to 2026-03-06

  • The City of Yellowknife is closing its aquatic centre from April 5 to May 2, while the facility undergoes a comprehensive warranty inspection and related repairs. Over this period, swim lesson payments will be refunded, and flexi passes will be extended.

    cabinradio.ca

  • Artless Collective is currently training Tłı̨chǫ youth in livestreaming to cultivate a new generation of handgames broadcasters. The training aims create work opportunities for youth interested in broadcasting and digital technology, equipping them with skills needed to train future peers.

    cbc.ca

  • The NWT government has provided an update on the Indigenous Recruitment and Retention Framework Action Plan, which launched in 2021. So far, the inclusion of Indigenous factors in job descriptions and unconscious bias training have been implemented but plans to launch a nine-month Indigenous mentorship program and a new Employee Assistance Program focused on Indigenous health and wellness are underway.

    www.gov.nt.ca

  • The Tłı̨chǫ and NWT governments have signed a memorandum of understanding to jointly assess the potential for a hydroelectric generating station on the La Martre River near Whatì Falls. The project aims to support Indigenous ownership and leadership, in addition to providing reliable power, training, and employment opportunities for Tłı̨chǫ citizens and businesses.

    www.gov.nt.ca

  • The federal government is providing $1.5M to the Tłı̨chǫ Government to advance mineral exploration over three years. The funding will go towards identifying new mining opportunities through aerial surveys, ground-based prospecting, and data analysis in the Tłı̨chǫ Region.

    canada.ca

  • Sixty North Gold Mining Ltd. is set to begin gold production at its Mon Gold Mine in Yellowknife, with construction of the winter road now complete. A mill shipment from China is due to arrive in Vancouver on March 6, with the mill’s assembly in the territory planned for late April and the initial commissioning expected by late June or early July.

    juniorminingnetwork.com

  • The NWT government has updated its Mining Incentive Program by conditionally removing the $500K lifetime funding cap for corporate projects that rank in the top 30% of applications. This change aims to enhance support for high-potential projects, especially those related to critical minerals, while ensuring the program continues to operate with clear limits.

    mynorthnow.com

  • Mining company Rio Tinto has obtained prospecting licenses to explore copper in the Sahtu region. Should the initiative lead to further development, the surrounding communities could benefit from training and economic development opportunities, especially in light of the declining oil and gas industry in the area.

    cbc.ca

  • Regulators have approved the closure and reclamation plan for the NWT’s Diavik mine, with commercial operations set to end later this month. The closure work will continue until around 2029, followed by monitoring that could last into the 2040s. Staffing is expected to decrease from about 900 to between 100 and 250 by the end of the closure.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The federal and NWT governments have signed a memorandum of understanding aimed at enhancing regulatory coordination with Indigenous governments. The agreement emphasizes collaborative efforts to improve clarity, predictability, and efficiency in impact assessments and regulatory processes across shared jurisdictions.

    canada.ca

  • The owners of Yellowknife's Capitol Theatre building are seeking a new tenant, as the theatre is set to close on March 31. The Det’on Cho Group of Companies will be accepting proposals from potential operators, including community groups and non-profits, capable of managing the facility.

    cbc.ca

  • Northwest Territories Tourism, Travel Nunavut, and the Tourism Industry Association of the Yukon have signed a memorandum of understanding to create the Arctic Canada Tourism Network. The new organization aims to enhance collaboration in promoting northern tourism, providing a unified voice to advocate for its role as an economic driver in the region.

    yukon-news.com

  • Aurora Village is planning to expand their operations, aiming to create 100 new local jobs within the next few years. The business operates as a tourist area where guests can observe northern lights in heated teepees, or take part in snowshoeing, dog sledding, and other cultural activities.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The NWT government is reminding business owners that business licenses are up for renewal, due April 1. Business owners can obtain licences through the GNWT eService portal, by mail, or by email. However, certain communities issue their own licenses and will require direct contact.

    www.gov.nt.ca
• Week of 2026-02-23 to 2026-02-27

  • The Cities of Yellowknife, Whitehorse, and Iqaluit have signed a memorandum of understanding to strengthen collaboration among the northern capitals. The agreement outlines a joint commitment to work with the federal government in addressing infrastructure needs, collaborating on Arctic security and defence operations, and establishing a structured framework for funding and data sharing.

    whitehorse.ca

  • The Islamic Centre of Yellowknife recently opened in the city’s Old Town neighbourhood after six years of planning and construction. The mosque can accommodate about 400 men and features an additional room for women.

    cbc.ca

  • The NWT Power Corporation plans to start the final stages of bringing the Taltson hydro plant back online in early March after being offline since summer 2025 due to corrosion in the surge tank. The $37M repairs are nearly finished and the commissioning process set to begin on March 1.

    cabinradio.ca

  • De Beers has confirmed that the NWT’s Gahcho Kué diamond mine is discussing potential job cuts, with about 5% of its 500 employees being affected. The discussions aim to minimize the impact on local workers after a recent decision to pause the Tuzo Phase 3 expansion project. Currently, the mine is slated to close in 2031.

    cbc.ca

  • Housing NWT will be demolishing a 24-unit apartment complex in Yellowknife sometime this week. Hilltop Apartments is currently undergoing abatement to remove mold and asbestos, however once demolition work is complete, new public housing units will be built on the site. The construction timeline and number of units have not been announced.

    cbc.ca

  • Pan American Energy Corp. has mobilized field crews for its winter drilling program at the Tharsis Project located in the NWT. Activities include moving personnel and equipment to site, establishing field logistics and camp services, and preparing supports for drilling and technical work. Drilling will begin once the site is setup and ready.

    panam-energy.com

  • A new movie theatre has recently opened at the Aven Pavilion seniors facility in Yellowknife on February 12. The theatre offers weekly movie nights, sports screenings, and space for community events.

    yellowknifer.com

  • The NWT government is planning to provide additional training for staff handling Student Financial Assistance to address a months-long payment delay. While the program’s administration will remain unchanged, the government will enhance resources during high-demand periods. In October 2025, five new positions were added to manage the surge in applications.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The federal government is allocating 197 spots for the 2026 NWT nominee program. The selection process for this year has been amended, requesting that employers submit expressions of interest on behalf of the nominee. Applications open on March 9, and the first expression of interest draw, which will select up to 65 applicants, will take place March 25.

    cbc.ca
• Week of 2026-02-16 to 2026-02-20

  • Li-FT Power Ltd. has begun drilling at its Yellowknife Lithium Project in the Northwest Territories. A 6,770m resource drill program is planned for the BIG East spodumene pegmatite, aiming to expand the deposit and increase its mineral resource capacity.

    li-ft.com

  • The NWT government, along with its school boards and the Home Base Yellowknife charity, are launching a new program to support youth experiencing mental health and addiction challenges in healing and re-engaging in learning. The initiative will start this September and will allow up to 12 students at a time to receive education, housing, clinical care, and cultural supports.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The Northwest Territories faces potential early closure of its diamond mines, Ekati in 2029 and Gahcho Kué in 2031, raising concerns about the labour market and the need for economic diversification. If both mines close within a short period of time, over 1,000 job losses could strain the economy and prompt population declines as workers seek opportunities elsewhere.

    cbc.ca

  • The Innovate Centre in Inuvik, which supports local entrepreneurs by providing various tools and training, is facing funding cuts after failing to meet criteria for continued support. Operated by Aurora College since 2018, the centre has one year to wind down its operations.

    cbc.ca

  • The federal government is providing over $24M to support 30 transitional and 10 social housing units in Yellowknife for individuals at risk of homelessness. The development will feature barrier-free and accessible units, in addition to an early learning and childcare centre.

    cmhc-schl.gc.ca

  • The federal government is allocating over $1M to six new freshwater projects focused on protecting and restoring the health of the Mackenzie River. Two of the projects will take place in the Northwest Territories and will focus on examining the long-term changes in water quality and climate change within the area.

    canada.ca
• Week of 2026-02-09 to 2026-02-13

  • Mountain Province Diamonds and De Beers, the co-owners of the Gahcho Kué diamond mine, have decided to postpone its Tuzo Phase 3 project. The project would have extended the mine’s operations to 2030; however, challenging market conditions have resulted in the decision to pause plans. Although, the number of job impacts have not specified, the mine employs around 850 people.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The City of Yellowknife has collected over $770K in tourist accommodation tax over the first three quarters that it has been in effect. The 4% tax, collected from hotel and short-term rental stays, is intended to fund tourism initiatives and promotion efforts. As of fall 2025, the city and Northwest Territories Tourism have signed a three-year agreement to market Yellowknife as a major tourism destination.

    yellowknifer.com

  • The federal government is providing over $2.8M to support four projects aimed at enhancing digital literacy and AI adoption in communities across Nunavut, the Northwest Territories and the Yukon. The funding will enable Northerners to leverage new technologies safely and promote economic growth within the region.

    canada.ca

  • De Beers’ Gahcho Kué diamond mine produced 949,000 carats in the last quarter of 2025, nearly three times its production earlier in the year and more than double the year-over-year figure. The NWT operation spent much of the year drilling through waste rock before reaching a higher grade ore body in November.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The Yellowknife Airport (YZF) reached over 618,000 passengers in 2025, marking a 2.0% increase in recorded traffic compared to 2024. Factors contributing to the growth include increased regional travel, expanded airline routes, more flight frequencies, and heightened interest in tourism and business opportunities.

    www.gov.nt.ca

  • The NWT government and Ne’rahten Development Ltd. have partnered to establish the K’áhsho Got’ı̨nę Trades Centre in Fort Good Hope. The facility will allow community members to construct modular homes, in addition to receiving training and employment opportunities. The centre is slated to open in April 2026.

    mynorthnow.com

  • Yellowknife’s Capitol Theatre will be closing permanently on March 31. In recent years, the city’s only movie theatre has struggled financially due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Hollywood writers’ strike, and the 2023 wildfire evacuation of Yellowknife. The owner of the theatre building confirmed the lease is expiring, but adds a new leaseholder “will continue to use the space for a similar purpose.”

    cbc.ca
• Week of 2026-02-02 to 2026-02-06

  • The job vacancy rate in the RCMP’s Northwest Territories division is trending downward, falling to 21% from 28% at the start of 2025. The division is adding more staff in the coming months, and the rate is expected to drop further to about 18%. Just a few years ago, the NWT had one of the highest police job vacancy rates in the country, alongside Nunavut.

    cbc.ca

  • An ongoing doctor shortage in Inuvik is expected to worsen with scheduled leaves beginning in February, according to the Northwest Territories Health and Social Services Authority. The local hospital requires nine physicians but has been well below that level for two years. Staff are currently being trained in virtual medicine in the event that the shortage becomes more critical.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The Government of Canada is upgrading the status of its military facilities in Yellowknife and Inuvik from “forward operating locations” to “northern operational support hubs.” Procurement begins later this year and could mean up to $5B in contracts for each location, including airfield improvements, fuel facilities, ammunition compounds, warehouses, and accommodation.

    cabinradio.ca

  • On January 30, Imperial Oil announced it will be shutting down its oilfield operations in Norman Wells, where production has been declining for several years. The closure is planned for the third quarter of 2026. It is not clear how many workers will be affected, but in 2024 the company employed about 80 people at the site.

    cbc.ca

  • The Government of the Northwest Territories has released its capital plan, with nearly half of spending dedicated to the South Slave and Beaufort Delta regions. Major projects include the Mackenzie Valley Highway, the Dehk’e Frank Channel Bridge, and the Inuvik Airport Terminal.

    mynorthnow.com

  • The governments of Canada and the Northwest Territories have established a $74M infrastructure fund meant to promote future housing development. NWT communities can seek funding for water, wastewater, and solid waste projects that support housing development and have a budget of $1M or more.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The NWT Power Corporation says work is progressing on repairs to the Talston hydro plant, but it will not be back in service until at least March 2026. The costs of the project have more than doubled, to $37M, since the plant was shut down for an overhaul in May 2023. Much of the overrun has been the cost of diesel to power communities previously served by Talston.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The North Slave Métis Alliance is entering into a copper collection and recycling agreement with the City of Yellowknife. The organization has taken over a copper recycling program previously run by Diavik Diamond Mines and will implement it in Yellowknife beginning in spring 2026.

    mynorthnow.com

  • The governments of Canada and the Northwest Territories have signed a memorandum of understanding, agreeing to coordinate efforts on infrastructure projects in the territory with a focus on critical minerals. Both parties have agreed to work closely with Indigenous governments.

    canada.ca
• Week of 2026-01-26 to 2026-01-30

  • Delegates at the Dene National Assembly have passed a resolution directing the Dene Nation to establish a water office that would support research, advocacy, and water protection. The leadership will develop an implementation plan and seek funding for the initiative.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The Government of Northwest Territories has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Tłı̨chǫ Government and Yellowknives Dene First Nation, agreeing to collaborate on the development of the Arctic Economic and Security Corridor. The project consists of a highway connecting the NWT to a planned deepwater port in Nunavut and is estimated to cost billions if it goes ahead.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The Northwest Territories government is increasing its contribution to the Interim Resource Management Assistance Program, which helps Indigenous governments and organizations to participate in land and resource decisions. The territory’s funding is increasing by about $800,000 and it has encouraged Ottawa to increase its share as well, since the program receives more requests than it can accommodate.

    mynorthnow.com

  • The Northwest Territories government and the Acho Dene Koe First Nation have signed a memorandum of agreement on improving housing in Echaot’l Koe (Fort Liard). The agreement creates a working group that will focus on housing planning, repair and construction of units, and coordinating programs and services.

    www.gov.nt.ca

  • The YWCA NWT is seeking Indigenous artists to design and paint a mural at its Gotı̨ li Kǫ̀ transitional family housing building and office. The organization is accepting expressions of interest from individuals and groups until February 20, 2026.

    mynorthnow.com

  • The Northern Journalism Training Initiative will close in February 2026, having run out of funding. The Northwest Territories non-profit formed in 2020 to provide intensive training programs to northerners trying to break into the news industry.

    cabinradio.ca

  • Gold Terra’s winter 2026 exploration program will include four drills working on the Northbelt: 836 sq. km of land immediately north, south, and east of Yellowknife. The company hopes to advance more gold mining near Yellowknife during a time when the mineral industry is waning in the Northwest Territories.

    yellowknifer.com

  • Fortune Minerals has completed validation tests at its NICO project in the Northwest Territories, confirming that battery-grade cobalt sulphate can be generated from the deposit. The project includes plans for an open pit and underground mine and concentrator in NWT, as well as a refinery in Alberta.

    mining.com

  • The Łı́ı́dlı̨ı̨ Kų́ę́ First Nation is offering home renovation grants to its members in Fort Simpson and is hoping the program might encourage more contractors to set up businesses in the community. About 90 grants of up to $30,000 are available.

    cabinradio.ca
• Week of 2026-01-19 to 2026-01-23

  • The federal government is providing hundreds of millions in funding to infrastructure projects in Canada's North. While the majority of the funding is for Nunavut, $10M is earmarked for the rehabilitation of the Fort Liard access road in NWT. There is also $3M allocated to homelessness response plans in all three territories.

    yellowknifer.com

  • A Yellowknife resident has obtained a license from the City to build a community greenhouse and is seeking funding from the territorial government for the $3M facility. The project would be built in the Kam Lake industrial area and include solar panels, as well as potentially geothermal heating.

    yellowknifer.com

  • Holistic Counselling and Rehab Services has received a development permit from the City of Yellowknife to convert a home on Calder Crescent into a recovery residence. The plan is for the space to accommodate four tenants on a temporary basis while they are participating in off-site programming.

    cabinradio.ca

  • Yellowknife will host the Still Dark Festival in February, a four-day celebration of music that will include 22 bands at seven downtown venues. The event is hosted in partnership with Music NWT and includes both local acts and performers from southern Canada.

    yellowknifer.com

  • Aid organization Cuso International is offering micro-grants to youth in Ndilo who want to spearhead their own local projects. Funding of up to $5,000 is available for projects, which could be related to arts, culture, education, or other community development initiatives.

    yellowknifer.com
• Week of 2026-01-12 to 2026-01-16

  • Reitmans, a women’s clothing retailer, is closing its store in Yellowknife at the end of January. The store is the company’s only Northwest Territories location, and the number of affected employees has not been disclosed.

    cabinradio.ca

  • A Yellowknife chocolate business currently working out of a small commercial kitchen is hoping to open a retail store and production space. The owners of North Chocolate are asking the City of Yellowknife for a permit to use the main floor of the former Yellowknife Veterinary Clinic for their new venture.

    cabinradio.ca

  • Folk on the Rocks, Yellowknife’s biggest annual music festival, is looking for a consultant to develop an economic assessment. The organization is hoping to measure the impact of its festival and year-round programming to help with future funding applications.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The Government of the Northwest Territories and the Behdzi Ahda’ First Nation are planning to build a new K-12 school in Colville Lake. Territorial officials recently travelled to the community to meet with First Nation leadership and sign a workplan for the project.

    mynorthnow.com

  • Trials for the Arctic Winter Games are happening in Yellowknife this week, drawing youth athletes from across the territory who are competing to make Team NT. The games will be held this March in Whitehorse.

    cbc.ca

  • The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission has revoked the license of CKHR, a community radio station in Hay River that has been inactive for several years. The Hay River Broadcasting Society had hoped to find a new site for the station after a fire damaged its studios in 2019, but was never able to restart it.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The Arctic Indigenous Wellness Foundation is ending its one-on-one healing services, which it has delivered for the past eight years at a land-based camp in Yellowknife. The organization says it is shifting away from providing services to individuals and toward public education and capacity-building.

    cbc.ca

  • Rio Tinto’s Diavik Diamond Mine has contracted with Priestly Demolition Inc. to provide demolition services for the mine’s closure this year. Some of the demolition is scheduled for 2026, with all closure activities expected to be completed by 2029.

    newswire.ca
• Week of 2026-01-05 to 2026-01-09

  • The Northwest Territories and Nunavut Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists awarded a record number of scholarships in 2025, with 25 awards of $2,000 handed out. The program has had more applicants in recent years, potentially signalling increased interest in resource development industries.

    yellowknifer.com

  • The Government of the Northwest Territories is planning to build a monument in Yellowknife to honour those who attended residential schools, aiming to have the project complete by summer 2027. The territory is spending $200,000 to contract an artist to design the monument.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The City of Yellowknife is offering grants of up to $10,000 for local non-profit groups working in areas like reconciliation, housing, social supports, recreation, and heritage. The City provided $500,000 to community groups through its various grant programs in 2025.

    mynorthnow.com

  • SSI Canada, a NWT-based telecommunications company, has partnered with the Deh Gáh Got’îê First Nation to build a mobile wifi hotspot and safety shelter. The unit, partially powered by a solar array, will bring cellular service to a hunting area near Fort Province once it can be transported there this summer.

    cbc.ca

  • A new learning program in Yellowknife is offering an alternative for children who need more support than is usually offered in typical school settings. Chickadee N.E.S.T. provides indoor and outdoor programming for kids ages 6-12 and specializes in supporting neurodivergent students such as those with autism, dyslexia, or attention disorders.

    cbc.ca
• Week of 2025-12-15 to 2026-01-02

  • The Taltson hydro plant in the NWT will remain offline into the new year as repair work takes longer than anticipated. In the meantime, South Slave communities will continue to use diesel power. An update on the project’s new completion schedule will be provided in early January.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The NWT government is extending targeted property tax relief for diamond mines into the 2026-2027 fiscal year by reducing property tax revenues by about $8.8M. The extension is time-limited and builds on the 2025 temporary measures. Mine operators are expected to focus relief benefits on sustaining employment, maintaining operations, and meeting contractor and Indigenous business partner obligations.

    www.gov.nt.ca

  • Burgundy, the owner of the NWT’s Ekati diamond mine, has set out its opening plans following a $115M federal loan. The plans include closing its Antwerp office and restarting Ekati as a smaller operation. Burgandy has begun preparations to resume mining at the Sable open pit and process ore from the Fox pit, while the Point Lake pit operations will remain on hold until diamond prices improve.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The Town of Hay River has approved its 2026 budget, which will include around $16.75M in spending. The budget is expected to generate about $19.43M in revenue and will feature a $2.4M capital fund. Some projects for 2026 include flood mitigation efforts around Airport Road, developing a new solid waste facility, replacing the fire truck fleet, and upgrading recreation facilities.

    yellowknifer.com

  • Ekati Diamond Mine is receiving a $115M loan from the federal government under the Large Enterprise Tariff Loan program. The funding, which will be received in installments, will allow Burgundy, which owns Ekati, to continue operations at the mine and protect remaining jobs. However, if diamond prices do not recover within the next six to 12 months, the mine may require additional funding.

    cbc.ca

  • The Town of Hay River is developing a new economic development strategy for the community. The strategy aims to position Hay River as the hub of the North by supporting current economic drivers, improving quality of life, and diversifying the economy. Some proposed actions include attracting new businesses, promoting commercial agriculture, incentivising residents, and creating more housing.

    cabinradio.ca

  • Seabridge Gold is planning to spin off its Courageous Lake gold project, located northeast of Yellowknife, into a new company called Valor Gold. Although the project will not become an active mine anytime soon, it is one of Canada’s largest undeveloped gold deposits. The creation of Valor Gold is currently awaiting board, shareholder, court, and regulatory approvals.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The NWT government has developed new training materials to support small community fire departments across the territory. The training package consists of nine workbooks focusing on fire safety and fire prevention and covers 34 essential defensive firefighting skills most relevant to the region. Currently, 19 communities are set to implement the program, with more expected to join.

    www.gov.nt.ca

  • Hay River’s Western Arctic Marine Training Centre is receiving over $930K in federal funding to expand its training program. The funding will go towards purchasing new simulators and offering additional Transport Canada-certified courses. The centre aims to train northerners for careers in marine transportation, allowing participants to work on vessels upon graduation.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The NWT’s francophone school board is opening a new daycare in Yellowknife on January 5, 2026. Once open, La Tanière will be able to accommodate up to 25 children aged 19 months to four years. The school board is currently looking to establish a similar centre in Hay River.

    cabinradio.ca

  • Happy Tummy is opening a permanent restaurant location in downtown Yellowknife. Despite the new location, the food truck will still be available next summer, in addition to being used for catering and local events. The restaurant currently has five staff members.

    cabinradio.ca

  • Northwestel is planning to expand fibre lines and high-speed internet access to more Northern communities. Satellite internet will still be provided as the fibre line will not be able to reach island communities. To date, the company has brought fibre-to-the-home internet services to over 40 communities across the NWT and Yukon.

    mynorthnow.com
• Week of 2025-12-08 to 2025-12-12

  • The Chief Julian Yendo School in Wrigley has hired a new teacher after the position remained vacant for the past three months. The school board has secured housing for the new teacher, and they will begin teaching students from kindergarten to Grade 5 on December 10.

    cbc.ca

  • Three Naka Power companies in the NWT have received approval to amalgamate from the Public Utilities Board. The merger is scheduled for January 1 and is expected to provide customers with long-term savings. Naka Power Utilities will be required to submit power rates to the board next year to ensure financial impacts will not be passed on to customers.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The NWT’s health authority is launching a new bus service to support clients travelling into Inuvik for medical appointments. The initiative aims to reduce wait times during peak travel periods and ensure clients have reliable medical transportation. Although the bus service currently runs Monday to Friday, plans to expand operations may be available in the future.

    nthssa.ca

  • Housing NWT is planning to construct a new 30-unit singles social housing complex in Hay River. The new building is set to replace an aging 28-unit complex, with design plans focused on safety and community living. Construction is expected to begin in summer 2026.

    www.gov.nt.ca

  • The Yellowknife Airport is requesting for proposals to upgrade the facility’s main passenger washrooms. Contractors are to submit two concepts: one with gender-assigned washrooms and one with a single set of stalls for all travellers. Although the budget and expected completion date have not been decided, the design work timeline suggests construction could begin by spring 2026.

    cabinradio.ca

  • Rio Tinto, the owner of NWT’s Diavik diamond mine, has signed a closure agreement with the North Slave Métis Alliance (NSMA) to cover jobs and financial aid as the mine prepares to close by March 2026. The agreement includes employment and training opportunities for workers, funding for NSMA’s new economic development facility, and the transfer of Diavik’s copper wire recycling initiative.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The City of Yellowknife has signed a three-year agreement with NWT Tourism to promote tourism in the region. The organization plans to improve the city’s tourism research, expand business travel opportunities, and implement a multi-year wayfinding and signage project by creating information kiosks and interpretive displays at the airport.

    cabinradio.ca

  • Home Base Yellowknife and the Foster Family Coalition are set to vote on a tentative collective agreement with the union representing their employees, Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC). Currently, PSAC and the employers have agreed on all issues except for wages, leave entitlements, and the effective dates for a two-year collective agreement.

    cabinradio.ca

  • Home Base YK, a Yellowknife-based youth shelter, has completed design plans for a new nine-storey building. The new facility would allow the organization to expand its programs and deliver services under one roof. While there is no timeline for construction work due to a lack of funding, the permitting process is almost complete.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The NWT government is planning to improve healthcare access in small communities by 2028. The government is currently analyzing the territory’s use of licensed practical nurses (LPN) and paramedics, with plans to integrate LPNs and paramedics into the health system, establish community health nursing standards, and continue efforts in recruiting and retaining community health nurses.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The NWT government’s department of Education, Culture and Employment (ECE) in the North Slave Regional and Community Service Centres in Yellowknife and Behchokǫ̀ have reduced its daily office hours as of December 3. Although the reduced hours are said to be temporary, depending on a review in six months, the change in hours may become permanent.

    mynorthnow.com

  • The City of Yellowknife has concluded 2026 budget discussions as of December 3. Some decisions made include raising the municipal enforcement’s budget to $2.1M and hiring two additional enforcement officers, increasing property tax to 3.67%, cutting $735K worth of recreational infrastructure repairs, and increasing parking meter fees.

    cabinradio.ca

  • Yellowknife’s Street Outreach program, which provides safe rides to individuals experiencing intoxication or homelessness, will shift from one-year to three-year operating contracts. The change follows the city receiving $900K in federal funding in October to expand the program, where the council voted five to three in favour of this transition.

    cabinradio.ca

  • Dental hygienists in the NWT are now able to treat patients without dentist supervision, effective December 1. The new regulations will help address the territory’s lack of dental care access, while also ensuring the practice aligns with other provinces. Registered dental hygienists will be able to provide preventative dental care such as cleanings, fluoride rinses, and small cavity treatment.

    cbc.ca
• Week of 2025-12-01 to 2025-12-05

  • Aurora Group of Companies, which provides heavy truck and mechanical services to mines in the NWT, announced the permanent layoff of approximately 90 mechanics and welders from the Ekati diamond mine site due to missed payments. Aurora Group stated that Burgundy is about $8 million in arrears, which caused Aurora to withdraw all staff from the site by September 2025.

    cbc.ca

  • The Gahcho Kué mine in the NWT expects to remain operational until 2031. Despite challenges from the US tariffs and a declining natural diamond market, mining activities are expected to continue until 2030 and ore processing until 2031. The mine currently employs 850 to 875 people and plans to recruit additional workers from the Diavik mine, which will cease operations in March 2026.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The NWT government has launched the first phase of the new Dental Hygiene Profession Regulations as of December 1. The new regulations will be managed under the Health and Social Services Professions Act to ensure a consistent framework for health and social services professionals. The transition will occur in two phases, with phase 2 scheduled for a later date.

    www.gov.nt.ca

  • Housing NWT has completed modernization work at Aspen Apartments, a 36-unit social housing building. The upgrades, which include installing new security and heating systems, are expected to extend the service life of the building by 25 years. The building is currently ready for occupancy.

    www.gov.nt.ca

  • The Diavik diamond mine near Yellowknife will cease mining operations by the end of March 2026. The mine has received four proposals to acquire its solar panel farm, which is set to be dismantled when the closure is complete. A formal request for proposals will he held by the end of 2025.

    cabinradio.ca
• Week of 2025-11-24 to 2025-11-28

  • Aspire Training Academy has opened a new training centre in Yellowknife. The organization aims to help individuals upgrade their employment, life, and literacy skills in hopes of gaining employment, pursuing further education, or starting a new business.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The Diavik diamond mine in the NWT will cease mining operations in March 2026, after over 23 years of production. Closure activities will take place from 2026 to 2029, following a post-closure monitoring phase until 2040. Staffing is expected to decrease from 900 workers to between 200 and 300 people during the six-month decommissioning phase and will further drop to 100 to 250 staff until 2029.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The NWT government has announced the funding allocation for the Mineral Incentive Program 2025/2026 intake period. The program provides annual funding for proposed new exploration projects or ongoing mineral exploration work in the territory, with a total of 15 projects receiving funding this round.

    www.gov.nt.ca

  • The Tłı̨chǫ government and the Yellowknives Dene First Nation have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to lead the development of the Arctic economic and security corridor, which features an all-season road connecting the NWT to the Grays Bay port in Nunavut. The next steps include forming working groups, conducting necessary studies, and preparing a proposal to the federal government.

    cbc.ca

  • A new K-9 screening program has been launched in Délı̨nę, NWT to prevent alcohol and drugs from entering the community. North of Sixty K-9 Detection Services will perform the screenings to check all bags and cargo at the Yellowknife Airport before flights head to the area. The next phase of the program will introduce dogs trained to detect firearms.

    cbc.ca

  • The federal government has launched a $1B Arctic Infrastructure Fund to support dual-use transportation projects that serve both civilian and defence purposes. The fund is part the 2025 Budget in which $6B will be allocated over seven years to build dual-use infrastructure. The initiative is expected to create skilled jobs, grow regional economies, and help businesses reach new markets.

    canada.ca

  • All provinces and territories have signed a new agreement with the federal government to reduce interprovincial trade barriers, effective December 2025. Excluding food products, the agreement will allow goods legally sold in one province to be sold in others without additional testing or certification. Economic forecasts predict this could increase Canada’s GDP by up to 7.9%, about $200B annually.

    insidelogistics.ca
• Week of 2025-11-17 to 2025-11-21

  • The NWT government has approved over $37M in health and social services capital projects for 2026–2027. The projects include building a long-term care facility, social services centre, and wellness and recovery centre, in addition to upgrading facilities and replacing aging equipment throughout the territory.

    www.gov.nt.ca

  • The NWT government has contracted The Yellowknife Women’s Society to operate a new transitional housing facility located near the Yellowknife Airport. The facility, slated to open in December 2025, will accommodate up to 24 individuals and will offer essential services, such as transportation, employment and income assistance, housing application guidance, and skill development programs.

    www.gov.nt.ca

  • The Workers’ Safety and Compensation Commission is investing around $1M to help reduce work-related injuries and illnesses across the NWT and Nunavut. The funding will allow local organizations to run chainsaw safety courses, certify First Aid instructors, hold occupational health and safety training boot camps, and modernize existing courses and programming.

    cabinradio.ca

  • Construction of a new water treatment plant at the Giant Mine site in Yellowknife is currently underway. The new plant will treat water to a higher standard than the current treatment plant and will be heated by biomass in an effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The new treatment plant is expected to be operational by February 2027.

    cabinradio.ca

  • RouteBox, a northern delivery firm, has expanded package and grocery delivery services. The company is offering free, direct delivery to Behchokǫ̀ once or twice a week, in addition to providing free delivery to local airlines located in northern communities, such as Gamètì, Wekweètì, Gjoa Haven, and Fort Good Hope.

    cabinradio.ca
• Week of 2025-11-10 to 2025-11-14

  • Prosper NWT has increased its lending and investment limit for northern businesses from $2M to $5M per business enterprise. The increased financing aims to help businesses grow, create jobs, and support investments in key sectors such as housing, critical minerals, public infrastructure, and emerging technologies.

    prospernwt.ca

  • Fortune Minerals is receiving a $3.8M loan from Prosper NWT to acquire a refinery site in Alberta. The refinery will facilitate concentrate processing for the Nico mine near Whatì, helping to mitigate development risks and lower capital and operating costs.

    cabinradio.ca

  • Burgundy Diamond Mines pledged a partial severance payment of up to three weeks’ pay for laid-off workers after delaying the scheduled payment on November 6. The company has struggled to meet financial commitments, which has affected the closure and reclamation plan on the Ekati mine. Burgundy will submit a new plan by December 31, 2026, after being approved for an extended deadline.

    cabinradio.ca

  • Multi-year funding to address homelessness has greatly benefitted several Yellowknife non-profit organizations. Federal and territorial funding was distributed by the city over two years for 2024 to 2026, enabling organizations to expand services and hire additional support workers and service coordinators.

    cbc.ca

  • Three Naka Power companies in the NWT are planning to amalgamate by January 1, 2026. The amalgamation is expected to save the company approximately $220K annually and will result in a majority-Indigenous ownership, with Denendeh Investments acquiring a 51% stake in the company.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The City of Yellowknife and the Town of Inuvik recently signed an agreement to increase military investment in the North. The recent federal government budget proposed allocating $1B over four years to invest in northern transportation projects, which include work on airports, seaports, all-season roads, and highways for both civilian and military use.

    cbc.ca

  • The NWT Nominee Program opened its third 2025 intake on November 10, following the restoration of 300 yearly nominations by the federal government. The program guidelines have been updated through to the end of 2025 to reinstate previous work experience requirements and to remove the employer application limits and work permit expiration requirements. Application intake closes on November 24.

    www.gov.nt.ca
• Week of 2025-11-03 to 2025-11-07

  • The NWT government has passed a $436M capital budget for 2026–27 by a vote of 12–4. The budget governs spending on housing, healthcare, energy, transportation, and infrastructure projects, separate from the GNWT’s annual operating budget. Allocations include $50.4M for Housing NWT, tens of millions to maintain and build schools, and funding for major infrastructure and renewable energy initiatives, with $161M coming from federal infrastructure programs.

    cabinradio.ca

  • Sixty North Gold Mining Ltd. has ordered a complete 100 ton-per-day mill for its Mon Gold Mine in the Yellowknife greenstone belt. The mill will be delivered in early 2026 and once installed, it will establish the site as the only permitted and operating gold mine in the Northwest Territories.

    newsfilecorp.com

  • The Northwest Territories has adopted Alberta’s approach in allowing day home operators the ability to charge voluntary fees for additional services. This method enables providers to offer optional paid services like field trips, meals, and after-hours care, without affecting basic programming costs. As of earlier this year, daycare and day home providers are welcome to implement this approach.

    cabinradio.ca

  • Three school boards in the NWT have received one-time financial relief from the territorial government in response to the Jordan’s Principle funding cuts. The districts confirmed plans to use the funds to rehire and support existing educational assistants; however, the amount of funding provided and the number of assistants covered have not been revealed.

    cbc.ca

  • Aurora College announced that applications for its early learning and childcare certificate and diploma programs will not open until early 2026 due to funding cuts. The college will be revising the program for 2026-27 — which currently offers a one-year certificate or two-year diploma. The delay is not expected to greatly impact admissions, as many applicants typically wait until spring to apply.

    cabinradio.ca

  • CN has finished discontinuing the rail line between Hay River and Enterprise as of October 28, despite the NWT government’s efforts to keep it operational. The territorial government had requested CN to repair the line, which was damaged by wildfires in 2023, but the company argued there was insufficient demand to justify the cost. Freight previously delivered by rail is now being transported by truck instead.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The federal government is providing almost $1.7M through the Emergency Treatment Fund to support two Northwest Territories-based programs focused on addressing the needs of street-involved populations, substance use, and harm reduction. The funding will allow the programs to add additional services such as providing emergency first aid, overdose treatment training, and therapeutic support.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The Inuvik airport runway extension has been delayed due to permafrost conditions. The $230M project aims to extend the runway by 3,000 feet, allowing the Royal Canadian Air Force to operate more aircraft. Although it is unclear how the latest paving delay will further impact the schedule, the completion is estimated for late 2027 instead of the initial 2024 target.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The Town of Inuvik is proceeding with a stick-built washroom at Chief Jim Koe Park after reconsidering plans for a concrete structure and concession area, which exceeded the budget. Initially, $575K was allocated for the project, but it received bids between $1.1M to $2M. The public works committee is seeking a new request for approval and is looking to hire an engineer.

    cabinradio.ca
• Week of 2025-10-27 to 2025-10-31

  • The Tłı̨chǫ Assembly will be advancing the Arctic Economic and Security Corridor, which connects the NWT to Nunavut’s Arctic coast, as part of its four-year economic self-sufficiency goals. Alongside this, the assembly will also prioritize improving infrastructure and housing, enhancing wellness and addiction recovery services, and increasing resources for language, education, and training.

    cabinradio.ca

  • A committee of MLAs have halted its review of Bill 26, which would enable NWT nurses to establish their own bargaining unit. While supporters argue this change would give nurses greater advocacy power — especially amid challenges in recruitment and retention in healthcare — there is union opposition arguing for a collaborative approach to amend the act through government-led initiatives instead.

    cabinradio.ca

  • Marine Transportation Services has completed its 2025 resupply season, delivering over 18 million litres of fuel and over 2,000 revenue tonnes of cargo to 10 northern communities. The annual service offers cost-effective resupply for residents and businesses located along the Mackenzie River, Great Slave Lake, Western Arctic Region, and Kitikmeot Region.

    www.gov.nt.ca

  • The NWT government is launching a Managed Service Provider (MSP) model to improve how it sources short-term IT professional services. The MSP model will utilize a centralized provider to manage temporary project-based work and IT service opportunities costing under $300K.

    www.gov.nt.ca

  • The NWT’s Mine Training Society and Tłı̨chǫ Government are investing $1.2M over three years to support the Tłı̨chǫ Works program in connecting approximately 900 Yellowknife-based Tłı̨chǫ residents with job opportunities. The initiative aims to address issues related to the diamond mine closures, while providing support services, hands-on training, career planning, and skill-building sessions.

    cabinradio.ca

  • Construction on the Dehk’è Frank Channel Bridge Replacement Project has begun. The new $120.7M bridge will be built just north of the existing bridge and will feature two lanes and a path for pedestrians and cyclists. Completion of the new bridge is expected in fall 2027, with removal of the existing bridge completed by fall 2028.

    www.gov.nt.ca
• Week of 2025-10-20 to 2025-10-24

  • The federal government has increased the NWT Nominee Program’s capacity to 300 spots, restoring the 2025 allotment to its previous numbers. The restoration will help improve access to skilled workers for employers, provide more opportunities for newcomers to live and work in the territory, and promote population and economic growth in smaller communities.

    cbc.ca

  • Collège Nordique Francophone in Yellowknife has faced significant funding cuts from the federal government, dropping from about $2.8M last year to a third of that amount. The funding accounted for about 63% of the college’s operating budget. In anticipation of the reduced funding, the college had left three positions vacant since June and has now eliminated four additional positions.

    cbc.ca

  • Construction on Housing NWT’s new 50-unit mixed-use building in Yellowknife will be pausing for winter. During this time, materials will be manufactured off-site, with on-site work resuming by Spring 2026 and completion expected by Spring 2027.

    www.gov.nt.ca

  • The NWT SPCA animal shelter in Yellowknife may need to close or lay off staff due to lack of funding and decreased donations. The NWT SPCA estimates that $150K would be needed to stabilize the shelter's situation and pay for staff, medical services, and operation costs.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The NWT government has awarded Arcan Construction Ltd. with a contract to build 84 new housing units. The initiative is part of the government's three-year $150M plan to build 98 units across nine communities. Plans for the remaining 14 units will be announced at a later date.

    www.gov.nt.ca

  • Sixty North Gold Mining Ltd. has provided an update on its plans to restart sustainable gold production at the Mon Gold Mine in Yellowknife’s Gold Belt. The company has invested over $9M in acquiring and developing the mine, with plans to commission a 100 ton-per-day gold mine and mill in the summer of 2026.

    sixtynorthgold.com
• Week of 2025-10-13 to 2025-10-17

  • The federal and NWT governments are investing $5.5M to repair 150 social housing rental units across the territory. The repairs will help extend the building’s lifespan, ensuring the units remain safe and functional. Specific community allocations are not yet available.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The T’sa Group of Companies, a Łútsël K’é Dene First Nation’s economic development corporation, has recently acquired Unico Contractors, a Yellowknife-based company offering roofing, cladding, and insulation services. The company aims to train Indigenous members and create more opportunities for skilled tradespeople in the North.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The Fort Smith Animal Shelter may shut down this winter due to staffing shortages, rising costs, and limited space for dogs. The facility mostly operates with volunteers; however, the shelter is currently seeking municipal funding to hire a full-time shelter manager.

    cbc.ca

  • The NWT government is exploring new sustainable developments as three diamond mines, which employ over 1,000 people and contribute about 20% of the territory’s GDP, prepare to close over the next few years. The NWT government is seeking federal funding to support key infrastructure projects, ensuring environmental concerns are addressed with the land and water boards and Indigenous governments.

    cbc.ca

  • The NWT government anticipates that construction of the Mackenzie Valley Highway, connecting Wrigley to Norman Wells, will begin within two to three years. Estimated to cost $1.65B, the funding has not been finalized but the territory is exploring federal programs for financial support.

    cbc.ca
• Week of 2025-10-06 to 2025-10-10

  • The Yellowknives Dene First Nation, Tłı̨chǫ Government, and GNWT are partnering to support residents affected by diamond mine job losses and to help diversify the local economy. A central hub has been established to connect individuals with essential resources, while plans are underway to improve local procurement and encourage opportunities in clean energy, tourism, fisheries, and conservation.

    cabinradio.ca

  • Air Tindi is indefinitely suspending flight services between Yellowknife and Whatı on October 12 due to declining ridership and high operating costs.

    cbc.ca

  • Larga Kitikmeot is building a new 75-room medical travel lodge in Yellowknife. The development permit was approved on September 16, and plans are under way to construct the new lodge.

    cabinradio.ca

  • Northern food growers are facing difficulties in selling fresh produce due to NWT permit rules. Sellers are required to take an online food safety training course and pay for both the certification and permit, costing over a hundred dollars. Although the territorial government has waived permit fees for small producers this year, the regulatory changes remain a significant challenge.

    cbc.ca

  • A submersible turbine project in Fort Providence is receiving nearly $600K in federal funding to support data collection until next spring. Once the project is ready to launch, a total of eight turbines could be placed in the Mackenzie River to power the community alongside other renewable energy sources.

    cbc.ca

  • Imperial Oil’s restructuring plan, which includes significant job cuts in Alberta, is not expected to impact operations or staffing levels at the Norman Wells oil field in the Northwest Territories. The company anticipates the field will remain active for another five to 10 years.

    cabinradio.ca

  • A new professional association for nurses in the Northwest Territories and Nunavut will be created in early 2026. The Northwest Territories and Nunavut Association of Nurses (NTNAN) will provide professional advocacy, leadership development, and mentorship, while the current association will continue to support regulatory work.

    cabinradio.ca
• Week of 2025-09-29 to 2025-10-03

  • The federal government is allocating over $1.3M to enhance two museums in Yellowknife and Hay River and support an NWT-wide tourism project. The funding will help develop and modernize the territory’s tourism industry, in addition to allowing the museums to undergo repairs, upgrade systems, and offer additional services.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The Yellowknife Veterinary Clinic recently sold their business on August 20 after closing earlier the same month due to a family emergency. Currently, Aurora Veterinary Hospital is the only veterinary clinic operating in Yellowknife.

    cbc.ca

  • The federal government is providing over $8M to support sustainable training opportunities in the Northwest Territories. The initiative aims to create a low-carbon workforce within sustainable industries, providing in-person skills training to nearly 1,850 mid-career and new workers — including Indigenous people located in remote communities.

    canada.ca

  • The federal government has pledged over $1.5M to support six projects aiming to enhance tourism in the NWT and Yukon. The funding will help attract visitors, create new events, upgrade infrastructure, and promote economic diversification in northern communities.

    canada.ca

  • Fiddles & Stix, a music store in Yellowknife, recently closed on September 25. A new signage and graphic design store will open its place before October 31.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The Taltson hydro facility will remain offline until December due to equipment corrosion. The repairs, estimated to cost $15M, involve remediating the existing tank and installing a new surge tank upstream within the coming years. The company also applied for a remediation permit to add three additional diesel generators in Fort Smith and Fort Resolution.

    cbc.ca
• Week of 2025-09-22 to 2025-09-26

  • The NWT government recently announced up to $14M in funding for education assistants in response to the federal government’s decision to no longer fund off-reserve schools under the Jordan's Principle. However, to qualify for the territorial funding, education bodies must first exhaust any existing surpluses, which could pose as a challenge for school boards.

    cbc.ca

  • The NWT Teachers’ Association recently announced that 35 educational assistants in Yellowknife’s YK1 school district will no longer have voting rights due to a long-standing error related to membership classification. Although educational assistants can still participate in collective bargaining, they will no longer be eligible to vote in elections or hold office.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The NWT Supreme Court has halted plans to procure a contractor to build Inuvik’s new airport terminal until March 2026. The delay will push back the terminal’s expected completion beyond September 2028.

    cabinradio.ca

  • Golden Pursuit Resources Ltd. has completed its 2025 exploration program at the Myrt Lake property in the Northwest Territories’ Gordon Lake gold mining district. The program identified high-grade gold assays for a new mineralized zone. The company also confirmed extending the claims until 2033, with further geophysics and drilling planned in the future.

    newsfilecorp.com
• Week of 2025-09-15 to 2025-09-19

  • The federal and NWT governments are launching a pilot project to re-examine historic drill samples with artificial intelligence and digital scanning technologies. The pilot is part of a broader initiative to advance critical minerals exploration and establish a national digital core library, with the project focused on locating potential critical mineral zones within the Slave Geological Province.

    magazine.cim.org

  • Firefighters employed by Evergreen Forestry have not had a pay raise since 2023, when the previous contract expired. Evergreen Forestry was created by two First Nations and has a workforce of mostly Indigenous workers. Compared to other NWT firefighters, employees of Evergreen Forestry are paid 5% less. Negotiation is still underway, with an arbitration date to be set.

    cbc.ca

  • A teacher shortage linked to a lack of available housing in Wrigley has resulted in 14 students from kindergarten to Grade 5 being unable to return to school. The issue of housing affecting teacher vacancies is a longstanding issue within the Northwest Territories, leading to 25 unfilled teaching positions last year and 20 vacancies this year.

    cbc.ca

  • A new foot care clinic recently opened in Yellowknife. The clinic will provide services for nail care, skin care, education, and mobility.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The NWT government is launching a modular housing project to provide 98 new homes across nine communities in the Northwest Territories. The initiative is part of a $150M three-year plan to improve housing across the territory. A contractor will be announced later this fall, with construction slated for spring 2026 and completion expected by March 2028.

    www.gov.nt.ca
• Week of 2025-09-08 to 2025-09-12

  • Air Tindi, an NWT-based airline, will be adding new direct flight services between Hay River and Edmonton starting September 23. The flight schedule and seat pricing have not been announced.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The Diavik diamond mine in the Northwest Territories has produced 150 million carats of rough diamonds since it began production in 2003. Diavik is the first diamond mine in Canada to reach this level of production, exceeding its initial target of 100 million carats. The mine is slated to end commercial operations by early 2026.

    cabinradio.ca

  • Rackla Metals Inc. has completed its 2025 drill program and demobilized its drill team at the BiTe showing on the Grad Property. The program found a new gold discovery at the Manta intrusion, but lab results are still pending for the first three drill holes. Plans for 2026 will focus on drilling the ridge top.

    racklametals.com

  • The federal government is providing over $18.7M to the NWT government to strengthen communities with infrastructure needs. The funding will support projects across 19 categories focused on essential services and recreational infrastructure, such as public transit, water systems, local roads, and bridges.

    canada.ca

  • Wok Box, an Asian-inspired fast-food restaurant, recently opened in Yellowknife on September 6.

    cabinradio.ca
• Week of 2025-09-01 to 2025-09-05

  • The Chickadee Nest program, a new day program to support neurodivergent children, is launching in Yellowknife on October 1. The new program will offer programming in 6-week increments and hopes to fill the gap left by changes to Jordan's Principle that decreased funding for similar programs.

    cabinradio.ca
• Week of 2025-09-08 to 2025-09-12

  • The federal government has increased the NWT Nominee Program’s capacity by 47 slots, raising the total to 197 for this year. The NWT government announced that the additional spaces for 2025 will be allocated to eligible applicants from the second intake who were not selected initially.

    cabinradio.ca
• Week of 2025-09-01 to 2025-09-05

  • The NWT government is implementing a temporary $14M plan to fund educational assistant positions after federal changes hindered the renewal of the Jordan’s Principle funding. While the initiative is intended to fund approximately 200 existing educational assistants, schools may struggle to fill roles, as many staff members have sought other opportunities after being informed of the funding loss.

    cabinradio.ca
• Week of 2025-08-25 to 2025-08-29

  • YWCA NWT received approval to construct a new early learning daycare in Yellowknife. The $1.2M facility will accommodate 56 children, with a portion of the spaces reserved for staff members in addition to the general public. The daycare is expected to open by the end of March 2026.

    mytruenorthnow.com

  • The K’asho Got’ine Trades Centre in Fort Good Hope is currently hiring. The centre, while still under construction, aims to offer training and employment opportunities for Sahtu residents, in addition to building new homes in the area. Hiring is underway for an operations manager, finance manager, and floor supervisor, with an emphasis on local hiring and mentorship for successful candidates.

    cabinradio.ca

  • Aurora College is receiving $1.46M in federal funding for a project aimed at increasing climate change awareness among youth in the NWT. The initiative will provide in-classroom and on-the-land programming for students from kindergarten to Grade 12 and is set to run through 2029.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The NWT government plans to support adult education after Aurora College closed 19 community learning centres earlier this year. The government will partner with a northern employment training group and local communities to provide short- and medium-term programs. One of the programs planned includes a four-week employment preparation course followed by a two-week work placement.

    cbc.ca

  • The NWT government has dispatched four air tankers and pilots to Nova Scotia to assist with the province’s wildfire season. Additionally, the territory is organizing a team of 20 firefighters to assist elsewhere in Canada. The firefighter’s destinations will be determined in the next few days.

    cabinradio.ca
• Week of 2025-08-18 to 2025-08-22

  • Wok Box, an Asian-inspired fast-food restaurant located in Yellowknife, is set to open by the end of August. The restaurant, which originally aimed to open in June, is still awaiting an operating permit. Wok Box has already hired 22 staff members.

    cabinradio.ca

  • Wing Freak, a restaurant in downtown Yellowknife, recently opened on August 15.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The Yellowknife Veterinary Clinic has closed due to a family emergency. It is unclear when the clinic will re-open, but it will remain shut at least through August. Currently, there is only one other veterinary clinic in town and no permanent veterinary clinics outside of Yellowknife.

    cbc.ca

  • The Town of Fort Smith is receiving $2.5M in federal funding to support a wildfire project aimed at studying wildfire patterns, assessing the effects of repeated burns, and evaluating community risks. This initiative is part of the Build and Mobilize Foundational Wildland Fire Knowledge program, which supports 30 similar projects nationwide.

    cabinradio.ca

  • Hay River’s heritage centre is on track to reopen in August 2026 after being closed for nearly three years due to flooding. The federal government is providing $500K to fund the repairs, with the total project estimated to cost nearly $1M. Plans include reconstructing a third of the structure and building a new flood-resistant foundation.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The Tłı̨chǫ Government is initiating a study to evaluate the feasibility of establishing a local addictions treatment centre in the region. They are seeking applicants for an advisory committee to guide this effort, which aims to create sustainable, local healing options rooted in community values.

    cabinradio.ca

  • Sundog Trading Post in Yellowknife reopened on August 14 after being closed on June 27 due to a fire. The café will be selling coffee, ice cream, and baked goods, with plans to expand their menu once an available kitchen is found.

    cabinradio.ca
• Week of 2025-08-11 to 2025-08-15

  • On August 11, the Northwest Territories government announced over $2M in funding for non-profits in the region. The funding supports numerous local organizations and community governments by aiding them in initiatives and projects aimed at reducing poverty, upgrading security systems, implementing food programs, and conducting skill development workshops.

    nnsl.com

  • Marine Transportation Services has begun its 2025 barge season, delivering fuel and supplies to various communities along the Mackenzie River. Although some areas have shipments scheduled for later this month, the Sahtu region will soon wrap up their barge season after receiving over 5 million litres of diesel and nearly 1 million litres of gas during this period.

    mytruenorthnow.com

  • The Town of Hay River is planning to open several off-leash dog parks in the community. Although construction costs and opening dates have not been confirmed, the first park will be opening before fall, with the other locations opening before the year end.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The Taltson hydro plant in South Slave will remain offline for longer than anticipated. The Northwest Territories Power Corporation identified possible corrosion issues affecting the 60-year-old surge tank, resulting in additional remediation work. The company will advise the community once the hydro system is available again.

    cabinradio.ca

  • The Mantle, a Filipino restaurant in Yellowknife, is closing after nearly a decade of service since opening in September 2016. The closure is due to increased operating costs.

    cabinradio.ca

  • Air North will be adding new flight services between Yellowknife and Vancouver starting November 24, 2025. The non-stop flights will run twice weekly until March 27, 2026.

    cabinradio.ca

  • Li-FT Power Ltd. will begin drilling on August 25 at the Yellowknife Lithium Project in the Northwest Territories. The 2025 drill program includes 10 new holes aimed at extending previously identified spodumene intercepts at the Shorty and Nite dykes. The project is expected to become one of the largest spodumene projects in North America.

    li-ft.com
• Week of 2025-08-04 to 2025-08-08

  • The City of Yellowknife is reevaluating the expansion of its fire hall after receiving bids that exceeded the $21M budget. Although the city had originally planned to begin work this year, the tendering process has been halted as they consider future options. In the meantime, the fire hall will remain operational.

    cbc.ca

  • Burgundy Diamonds expects the Ekati mine in NWT to operate for another 15 years. The company plans to develop the Fox pit underground by mid-2026 and begin production in 2029. The pit is expected to produce 11.6 million carats and a total revenue of $3.64B by 2040. Meanwhile, the Diavik and Gahcho Kué mines located nearby are expected to close in 2026 and 2031, respectively.

    rapaport.com

  • The Town of Hay River approved plans to convert a field just south of the community into a new cemetery, estimating the cost at nearly $1M. The town has allocated $300K to create the new cemetery and $100K for additional work on the old cemetery, with plans to seek additional funding through grants and capital reserves. The new site is scheduled to be completed within a year.

    cabinradio.ca