Partners

Indigenous Leadership at the Core

The Arctic Economic and Security Corridor (AESC) is co-led by the Tłı̨chǫ Government and the Yellowknives Dene First Nation, in partnership with the Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT). This project represents a transformative vision for northern development, guided by the values, priorities, and Traditional Knowledge of the Indigenous communities who call this land home.

Through this leadership, the AESC is more than a transportation corridor — it is a nation-building initiative that advances reconciliation, self-determination, and sustainable prosperity for Indigenous communities and all Northerners.

Our Collaborative Partners and Supporters

The AESC is a partnership between Indigenous and government organizations, each bringing unique strengths to this shared vision:

Yellowknives Dene First Nation (YKDFN)

Representing the Treaty 8 Dene peoples, the Yellowknives Dene First Nation is deeply involved in shaping the governance and development of the AESC. The YKDFN is committed to ensuring the project aligns with their community’s cultural values, economic priorities, and environmental stewardship goals.

Tłı̨chǫ Government (TG)

As a Modern Treaty Self-Governing Indigenous Government, the Tłı̨chǫ Government plays a central role in ensuring the AESC reflects the values and priorities of its citizens. The TG provides strategic leadership, integrates Traditional Knowledge into project planning, and ensures the project delivers long-term benefits for the Tłı̨chǫ people.

Det’on Cho Group of Companies & Tłı̨chǫ Investment Corporation

The Det’on Cho Group of Companies (YKDFN) and the Tłı̨chǫ Investment Corporation (TG) jointly established 508368 N.W.T. Ltd., the Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) that advances the AESC on behalf of both Nations. The SPV ensures that the project reflects the strategic interests, values, and priorities of Indigenous communities while supporting equitable participation, job creation, and long-term economic benefit.

Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT)

The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) is a key partner in regulatory alignment, infrastructure development, and ensuring the AESC supports territorial priorities such as economic diversification, connectivity, and community well-being.

Government of Canada

Federal engagement is coordinated through the Major Projects Office (MPO). The Northern Projects Management Office (NPMO), part of the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency (CanNor), will coordinate federal participation and Crown consultation to support decision-making on the AESC's upcoming impact assessment. The NPMO will work with the MPO in preparation for the assessment.

Pre-consultation work is supported with funding from CanNor, reflecting Canada's commitment to advancing Arctic sovereignty, critical mineral development, and northern economic growth.

A Shared Vision for the North

The AESC partners are united by a shared commitment to:

Reconciliation: Building a project that respects Indigenous governance, Traditional Knowledge, and cultural values.
Collaboration: Working together to maximize benefits for all stakeholders, from local communities to the national economy.
Sustainability: Balancing economic development with environmental stewardship and long-term community well-being.

Empowering Indigenous and Northern Communities

The AESC is designed to create opportunities for Indigenous and northern communities at every stage, from planning to construction and beyond. Our partners are committed to:

Supporting training and skills development for local workers, especially Indigenous youth.
Prioritizing Indigenous businesses in procurement and contracting.
Ensuring that the project delivers lasting benefits for future generations.

A Model for Nation-Building

The AESC is more than a road — it’s a model for how Indigenous leadership and collaboration can drive transformative change. By combining Traditional Knowledge, modern engineering, and a shared commitment to sustainable development, the AESC is paving the way for a stronger, more connected North.