How to Apply for Nunavut Strategic Investments Programs

If you want to expand your business or start a new one in Nunavut, the Nunavut Strategic Investments Programs can help fill funding gaps that banks might not cover. These programs offer repayable contributions for projects that support Nunavut’s economy and create lasting benefits. The Government of Nunavut’s Department of Economic Development and Transportation (ED&T) manages these programs. Applications are open now.

This guide explains the programs, who can apply, and how to build a strong application.

Program Overview

The Nunavut Strategic Investments Programs include two main funding streams. Each stream supports different types of projects:

Strategic Investments Program for Business

This stream supports business-led projects in important sectors of Nunavut’s economy.

What the program supports:

Major business expansions or start-ups
Projects in key sectors chosen by the Government of Nunavut
Investments that provide clear economic benefits to the territory

Funding type:

Repayable contribution (not a grant)
The amount depends on your project’s size, risk, and economic impact

Strategic Investments Program for Community

This stream supports broader economic development projects that may not be led by businesses.

What the program supports:

Community or regional development projects
Training and professional development
Events that boost local economies
Education, infrastructure, or community buildings

Funding type:

Repayable contribution
Funding depends on the project’s scope and benefits

Eligibility Criteria

Eligibility depends on the type of project and the stream you choose. In general, you can apply if you are:

A business operating in Nunavut
An organization with a project that brings economic benefits to Nunavut
Able to show you can repay the funding
Planning a project that matches Nunavut’s economic priorities

Only businesses and organizations operating in Nunavut are eligible.

ED&T looks at how your project will help Nunavut’s economy, not just whether the business is profitable. They want to see job creation, skills development, and community benefits.

Application Process

1. Check if your project fits

Before starting your application, make sure your project:

Is based in Nunavut
Fits a strategic sector or brings clear economic benefits
Needs repayable funding as part of a larger financing plan

You can use tools like GrantHub’s eligibility matcher to see which Nunavut programs match your industry and project type.

2. Prepare your project plan

ED&T expects clear and detailed documents. You should have:

A business or project plan
Financial forecasts and budgets
Details about other sources of funding (if any)
Expected results, such as jobs created or training provided

3. Contact ED&T early

Applications are reviewed case by case. Talking to an ED&T economic development officer early can help you:

Make sure your project fits the program
Understand how repayment works
Avoid missing information in your application

4. Submit your application

Send your application directly to ED&T. There are no set deadlines. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.

5. Review and agreement

If your application is approved, you will sign a contribution agreement. This will include:

How and when you repay the funding
What reports you must provide
Key milestones you must meet

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Thinking it’s a grant:
These programs offer repayable funding, not grants. Plan for repayment in your budget.
Not showing economic impact:
If your application only talks about business profits and not community or regional benefits, it may not be competitive.
Incomplete financing plans:
ED&T expects you to combine this funding with other sources, not rely on it alone.
Waiting to contact ED&T:
Early conversations can prevent delays and confusion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is this program a grant or a loan?
It provides repayable contributions, which are like government-backed loans with flexible terms.

Q: How much funding can I get?
There is no fixed maximum. The amount depends on your project’s size, risk, and benefits to Nunavut.

Q: Can start-ups apply?
Yes. Start-ups can apply, especially to the business stream, if they work in a strategic sector and have a strong financing plan.

Q: Do I need to create jobs or offer training?
Projects that create jobs or provide training are highly valued, though it’s not always required.

Q: Is there a deadline to apply?
No. The program is open and accepts applications at any time.

Next Steps

Applying for Nunavut Strategic Investments Programs takes effort. The rewards can be great for Nunavut businesses and organizations that are ready to grow. GrantHub tracks hundreds of active grant and repayable funding programs across Canada, including those for Nunavut. This can help you find programs that match your business and project needs.

See also:

How to stack grants and loans without violating funding rules
What expenses are eligible under regional economic development grants?
What Business Expenses Are Eligible Across Canadian Grants and Loans?

With careful planning and the right support, repayable funding can help move your Nunavut project forward.

How to Apply for Nunavut Strategic Investments Programs