We will seek a shared pathway to an even better north
In 2022, we partnered with 13 Yukon First Nations development corporations to create the Shared Pathways Network. Now Yukon First Nations have direct ownership of the fibre assets that connect thousands of homes and businesses across the territory. We announced the ground-breaking partnership at the 2022 Arctic Indigenous Investment Conference.
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Photo details: We’re honoured to partner with Chu Níikwän LP to build our new first-Nation-owned energy-efficient office. This project is part of our long-term commitment to investing in the Yukon, growing our First Nation partnerships, and supporting our high-tech northern workforce.We believe stronger connections build stronger communities. Just as we strive to have Indigenous communities benefit from quality broadband, we believe they should also share in the economic benefits of investments in the North. We also know Northwestel benefits from the local knowledge and guidance Indigenous governments and partners provide.
Through frequent engagement, we learn what matters to Indigenous communities across the north. As we develop new projects, our focus will be on developing respectful relationships and making space for collaborative efforts with those we serve.
It is important to us to partner with local Indigenous producers and makers. Our team has been proud to serve up Grandma Treesaw’s delicious bannock at the National Indigenous Peoples Day events at the Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre for the past several years.
Shared Pathways Network
In 2022, we announced Our Shared Pathways – a ground-breaking new partnership that will see 13 Yukon First Nation development corporations taking ownership of Yukon’s in-community fibre infrastructure and Northwestel paying for its full use for the next twenty years. Yukon’s Shared Pathways network is a testament to our joint commitment to walking the path of reconciliation together.
Photo details: Fred Koe, Da Daghay Development Corporation Chair, and Curtis Shaw, Northwestel President made the historic announcement at the 2022 Arctic Indigenous Investment Conference.
Photo details: Serene Fall Season, acrylic, by Darrell Chocolate, Northwestel Northwest Territories Directory Art Cover, 2019
Our action plan
Past actions
Every Community Program continues: 12+ rural communities connected to fibre Internet.
CRTC Application for speed and increases and price drops approved: Major centres and fibre communities gain internet speed increases and price drops.
2022
Increased in-person communication with communities: Engagement is resumed post COVID-19 restrictions. Increased sensitivity to community needs and more proactive actions in maintaining service.
Every Community project: Communities are up to date and aware of Every Community project launches and activities.
Revamped consultation policy to be created: All new Northwestel projects engage in consultation early and often, accommodating communities far in advance any development.
Launched Shared Pathways Network: First of its kind collaboration in Canada gives Yukon First Nations ownership of communications assets and guaranteed lease payments from Northwestel until 2042.
Building partnership with Chu Níikwän LP announced: Northwestel’s future Yukon headquarters to be built by the business arm of the Kwanlin Dün First Nations and be located on Kwanlin Dün First Nation Settlement Land.
New procurement policy for attracting Indigenous contractors trialled: Relationship with Indigenous LPs and Development Corporation established in building camp and providing camp services for Robert-Campbell Highway fibre transport build.
2023
Increase frequency of Community engagements: Community members are frequently informed of activities beyond Northwestel services, like employment and sponsorship opportunities.
Expand Shared Pathways ownership model to Northwest Territories and Nunavut: Northern Indigenous communities gain sustained income and economic benefits from the same telecommunications assets that provide them services.
Implement new procurement policy and improve Indigenous spend tracking process: Increased Indigenous participation in projects.
Focus on green energy projects for attracting new Indigenous partnerships: 2 green energy projects identified and launched.
2024
Update Indigenous spending targets: Increase in procurement spend towards Indigenous organizations.
2025 Outcomes
- Northwestel has provided indigenous communities long-term sustainable benefits from economic development projects.
- Northwestel successfully tracks and can demonstrate continued growth in Indigenous procurement spend.
- Northwestel has a diversified suite of mutually beneficial relationships with Indigenous communities and development corporations.
