ARCTIC
ECONOMIC and SECURITY
CORRIDOR
Building the future of Canada's North, co-led by the Tłı̨chǫ Government and Yellowknives Dene First Nation
An Indigenous-led corridor connecting the Northwest Territories to Canada's Arctic. Built for economic growth, reliable year-round access and northern connection, with caribou and the land at the centre of the work.
Welcome to the
Arctic Economic and Security Corridor (AESC)
The Arctic Economic and Security Corridor (AESC) is a groundbreaking initiative to construct a ~400 km all-season road connecting the Northwest Territories to the Grays Bay Road and Port in Nunavut. Recognized as a project of national interest, the AESC will create opportunities for economic development, resource exploration and community connectivity while reinforcing Canada's northern sovereignty.
The Tłı̨chǫ Government and the Yellowknives Dene First Nation have reached consensus on a proposed corridor for the AESC. It is a proposed corridor, roughly 30 kilometres wide, not a final route. Engagement with citizens, members and neighbouring Indigenous governments is taking place and will continue as the work advances.
Led by the
Tłı̨chǫ Government and Yellowknives Dene First Nation
Indigenous leadership is at the centre of the AESC. The project is co-led by the Yellowknives Dene First Nation and the Tłı̨chǫ Government, working in partnership with the Government of the Northwest Territories and with support from the Government of Canada. The Nations set out with shared priorities. Reducing harm to caribou came first, alongside long-term prosperity for Indigenous and northern communities. Together, we are committed to a project that reflects the values, priorities and Traditional Knowledge of the Nations.
Why the AESC Matters
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Caribou first: Caribou and their migration routes are the top priority for the Nations. A road through the barrenlands will have impacts, and the work is to reduce and manage them, guided by Traditional Knowledge from Elders and Knowledge Holders alongside western science.
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Economic Growth: Enabling critical minerals exploration, resource development, and trade diversification that support sustained benefits and a strong northern long-term economy for Indigenous peoples.
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Reliable, Year-Round Connection: All-season access reduces the cost and uncertainty of relying on winter roads and air travel. It steadies the flow of goods and services, supports emergency response and opens new opportunities for training, jobs and long-term prosperity.
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Northern Sovereignty & Defence: Infrastructure that serves communities and industry while strengthening Canada's Arctic sovereignty, emergency response, and defence readiness.
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