GNWT Department of Finance

Creating an Economic Roadmap for the Northwest Territories

The Northwest Territories (NWT) economy has grown at an extremely rapid pace over the last several years. The potential development in the NWT will create tremendous opportunities as well as tremendous challenges.

Economic activity in the NWT over the next decade is forecast to continue to be strong. Expansion of the diamond mining industry, the construction of the Mackenzie gas project, and other potential projects all contribute to a positive economic outlook.

This development must be managed wisely so that it results in long-term benefits to NWT residents. Important questions must be addressed as NWT governments and residents move forward with investments that create an environment where positive economic development can happen.

In the 2006 Budget, the Government of the Northwest Territories committed to working with NWT residents to develop an economic blueprint for the NWT. Finance Minister Floyd Roland will convene a series of roundtable meetings with stakeholders from aboriginal, business and community groups in the months leading up to the 2007 Budget in February. Discussion during the roundtable meetings will provide the Minister with input to be used in formulating long-term macro-economic policy. A document that summarizes the results of this consultation and suggests proposals for next steps will be circulated with the 2007 Budget.

The public is also invited to participate in the consultation. Links are provided on this website to background material on the economy and a workbook, which provides a snapshot of where the NWT economy stands today and some of the challenges and choices NWT residents face for the future.

Please forward your comments and responses by December 15, 2006 to the questions outlined in the workbook to:

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