Four projects receive CanNor funding to foster northern innovation
Canada’s Minister of Northern Affairs has announced federal funding of up to $2.4 million that he said will help promote northern innovation.
“The needs and challenges in the North vary greatly from other parts of Canada, including infrastructure, food security, and access to learning and economic opportunities,” Dan Vandal said in a statement on Wednesday.
“By investing in research and innovation we can strengthen local initiatives to continue building the technology and infrastructure they need, create new businesses ideas and models, support food security and food affordability, and build stronger fisheries.”
The funding will go towards four projects in each of Canada’s territories.
Technology in Nunavut fisheries
Money earmarked for Nunavut will go towards the fishing industry with a focus on technology.
“This support provides CSFL and the local and broader communities with an incredible opportunity to collect and analyze valuable information about our Arctic Char stock,” Brittany MacLellan, Executive Manager, the Nunavut-based Cumberland Sound Fisheries Ltd. said.
“As a responsible fisheries vested in sustainable harvest, we sought this support to ensure our business operations were maximizing the growth of the local economy while ensuring the maintenance of a healthy fish stock. We also look forward to the training and employment opportunities this project will render, as well as the crucial and concrete data that will help guide our inshore fisheries in the most beneficial ways possible.”
Elsewhere, funding will go towards planning and researching on using renewable materials for insulation in the Yukon.
Hydroponic Garden project
In the Northwest Territories (N.W.T.) the financial support will go towards solar power and infrastructure to support food security.
Chief Kele Antoine from the Łı́ı́dlı̨ı̨ Kų́ę́ First Nation in N.W.T. said the Hydroponic Garden project set to launch this fall won’t just help sure reliable access to food, but will also develop valuable expertise in the community.
“This groundbreaking initiative will provide year-round fresh herbs and produce to our community, marking a significant step towards sustainable food security in the North,” Antoine.
“Additionally, it will offer valuable skills training and knowledge to community members, empowering them and fostering a deeper connection to sustainable practices.”
The announced funding comes through the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency, the body tasked with helping promote economic development in the country’s North.
Related stories from around the North:
Canada: Seal hunt advocate claims vindication, as Senate committee urges help for industry, CBC News
Greenland: Greenland grants two further exploration licences to Amaroq Minerals, Eye on the Arctic
Sweden: Europe needs unique iron ore from Kirkenes, says Swedish mine developer, The Independent Barents Observer
