Ottawa funds AI & digital skills push in the North

The Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency has announced up to CAD $2,815,999 for four projects to improve digital literacy and support the adoption of artificial intelligence across Nunavut, the Northwest Territories, and the Yukon.

Rebecca Chartrand, Minister of Northern and Arctic Affairs and the minister responsible for the agency, said the funding will be delivered through CanNor and reach communities across the three territories.

The announcement comes as public agencies in Canada and elsewhere increase spending on digital training and practical AI applications. Governments have also emphasised online safety and responsible use as generative AI tools become more prevalent in everyday work and consumer services.

Territorial reach

The four projects will focus on improving digital literacy and encouraging AI adoption. CanNor described the work as community-based support for residents and businesses, with an emphasis on practical use and online risk awareness.

No breakdown was provided for how much funding each project will receive. The announcement named several organisations linked to the work, including Inuvik Tech Society, Prosper NWT, Nunavut Economic Developers Association and Deltavue Inc.

Federal ministers also positioned the initiative as part of a broader national push on AI. Evan Solomon, Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation, tied it to Canada's wider AI plans and skills agenda.

"AI is for All and this is our guiding principle as we build our National AI Strategy. Digital literacy and AI adoption will support Northern communities with skills and tools needed to stay competitive and succeed in the changing world," said Solomon.

Business focus

Some of the messaging targeted small and medium-sized businesses in the North, where firms often face higher costs, smaller labour pools and long distances between communities. Ministers and local agencies have increasingly pointed to digital tools as a way to strengthen back-office processes and improve access to expertise.

Caitlin Cleveland, Northwest Territories Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment and Minister of Education, Culture and Employment, said the funding will connect firms with trusted guidance on using AI in operational settings. She pointed to administrative pressures and potential efficiency gains in routine work.

"Northern businesses are creative, resilient, and deeply rooted in their communities. This investment will help ensure they have access to the tools, skills, and trusted support they need to explore AI in practical and responsible ways. By helping businesses save time, reduce administrative pressures, and strengthen day-to-day operations, we are creating pathways to economic growth and new opportunities for Northerners," said Cleveland.

Local delivery

Inuvik Tech Society said it will use the funding for locally tailored training and technology assistance in the Beaufort Delta and the Western Arctic. The organisation said the work will address access barriers and build skills in online safety and basic digital competence.

Prosper NWT, the recipient of up to CAD $2,316,000, says it will develop a AI Driven Entrepreneurship and Business Support Centre.

CanNor noted a shift in its Regional Economic Growth Through Innovation program. REGI previously supported a broader range of innovation activities but now focuses on AI. The agency also cited the Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative as a vehicle for supporting projects that use artificial intelligence.