How to apply for Nunavut business, mining, and training programs

By GrantHub Research Team · · Lire en français

How to apply for Nunavut business, mining, and training programs

Running a business or training project in Nunavut brings unique challenges. Costs are higher, the labour pool is limited, and eligibility rules can be strict. Territorial funding programs help offset these difficulties. However, many applicants find it confusing to apply for Nunavut business, mining, and training programs. It can also be hard to know which department to approach first. The Government of Nunavut offers several open programs to support small businesses, mineral exploration, and workforce training, including the Nunavut Mine Training Fund.


Core programs you can apply for in Nunavut

These are the main business, mining, and training programs available in Nunavut. Each program has specific eligibility and requirements. Always check with the relevant department, as intake periods and rules can change.

Nunavut Mine Training Fund (NMTF)

The Nunavut Mine Training Fund supports training initiatives that prepare Nunavummiut for jobs in mining and related industries.

Who can apply

  • Mining companies operating in Nunavut
  • Inuit organizations
  • Training providers and educational institutions
  • Community organizations involved in workforce development

What the funding supports

  • Pre-employment and skills training
  • On-the-job and apprenticeship-style training
  • Safety certifications and job-readiness programs
  • Training coordination and delivery costs

Funding amounts are based on the project and are not publicly capped. Projects must directly support employment outcomes for Nunavummiut.

How to apply

  1. Contact the Department of Economic Development and Transportation (EDT) to confirm your project fits the program.
  2. Prepare a training plan with timelines, costs, and expected employment outcomes.
  3. Submit a formal proposal during an open intake period.

GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you quickly check if your organization and training activity meet the Nunavut Mine Training Fund requirements.


Small Business Support Program (SBSP)

The Small Business Support Program helps Nunavut entrepreneurs start, grow, or stabilize their businesses.

Eligible applicants

  • Nunavut-based small businesses
  • Sole proprietors, partnerships, and corporations

Eligible activities

  • Business planning and feasibility studies
  • Start-up and expansion costs
  • Operational improvements

Funding amounts are decided case-by-case and may include repayable or non-repayable parts, depending on the project.

Application steps

  • Submit a business plan and budget
  • Show community and economic benefits
  • Meet Nunavut residency and business operation requirements

Strategic Investments Program (SIP)

The Strategic Investments Program supports larger economic development projects that benefit Nunavut communities.

Who it is for

  • Businesses
  • Non-profits and Indigenous organizations
  • Partnerships with territorial or community impact

What it funds

  • Infrastructure and capital projects
  • Economic diversification initiatives
  • Sector development, including mining-related services

Funding levels depend on the project scope and strategic value.


Nunavut Prospector’s Program

This program supports early-stage mineral exploration by individual prospectors.

Key details

  • Up to $8,000 in repayable funding
  • Covers fuel, supplies, food allowances, assistant wages, and assay costs
  • Open to Nunavut residents involved in prospecting

How the Nunavut application process works

Each program has its own steps, but most follow a similar structure:

  • Pre-screening: Program officers check eligibility and project fit
  • Formal application: Submit business plans, budgets, and project descriptions
  • Assessment: Review economic, employment, and community impact
  • Funding agreement: Set reporting and reimbursement rules

Most Nunavut programs require a proposal. Clear outcomes and realistic budgets are important.


Common mistakes to avoid

  1. Not confirming eligibility
    Many Nunavut programs have strict rules about who can apply. Always check residency, organization type, and project location before starting.

  2. Weak training or business plans
    Missing details or unclear goals can delay or stop approvals.

  3. Assuming all funding is non-repayable
    Some programs include repayable parts. Read the funding agreement carefully.

  4. Lacking reporting capacity
    If you cannot track expenses and results, your application may be rejected or you may not get future funding.


Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Who administers the Nunavut Mine Training Fund?
The program is run by the Government of Nunavut through the Department of Economic Development and Transportation.

Q: Is the Nunavut Mine Training Fund only for mining companies?
No. Training providers, Inuit organizations, and community groups can also apply if their project supports mining-related employment.

Q: Are Nunavut business grants competitive?
Yes. Most programs review applications based on impact, feasibility, and alignment with Nunavut’s priorities.

Q: Do I need to be incorporated to apply?
Not always. Some programs accept sole proprietors or individuals, while others require a registered organization. Check each program’s eligibility rules.

Q: When do applications open?
Some programs accept applications year-round, while others have set intake periods. Always check the current status before applying.


GrantHub tracks active grant programs in Nunavut, helping you find business, mining, and training funding that matches your needs.


Next steps

If you want to apply for Nunavut business, mining, or training funding, start by listing programs that match your location, sector, and organization type. Preparing early and confirming eligibility can save weeks of back-and-forth. GrantHub lets you compare Nunavut’s programs and understand requirements before you spend time on an application.

See also:

  • Repayable vs Non-Repayable Business Funding in Canada: Program Examples Explained
  • What Business Expenses Are Eligible Across Canadian Grants and Loans?
  • Small Business and Regional Development Grants: Eligible Expenses

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