Iqaluit (Nunavut) June 13, 2011 – Nunavut communities received funding for a variety of initiatives that will help build capacity and strengthen the tourism sector, the Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Minister of the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency (CanNor) and Minister of Health announced today.
“The Government of Canada is proud to support the tourism industry, because it makes an important contribution to the Nunavut economy,” said Minister Aglukkaq. “These projects increase opportunities for Nunavummiut, ensuring they can continue to build a vibrant and diversified tourism sector and ultimately help create jobs and new business opportunities in the North.”

The CanNor funding of over $200,000 supported five tourism-related projects across the territory. Investments in Nunavut Arctic College supported the second phase of developing the Tourism Hospitality Program, and the Inuit Heritage Trust received funding for a Train the Trainer program. The Hamlet of Kugluktuk conducted a feasibility study on building a visitor/cultural centre in their community; and contributions to Nunavut Tourism supported member training. Finally, the Hamlet of Chesterfield Inlet updated their tourism marketing material, such as brochures.

These federal investments were made possible through two programs administered by CanNor. The Strategic Investments in Northern Economic Development (SINED) program focuses on long-term economic growth, economic diversification and capacity building in all three territories. The Community Economic Opportunities Program (CEOP) provides project-based support to First Nation and Inuit communities that have opportunities in economic development.

SINED and CEOP are two of several economic development initiatives within CanNor. CanNor is responsible for coordinating and delivering Canada's economic development across the North, and for related policy development, research and advocacy.