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Inuit Firm Registry

About the Inuit Firm Registry

The Policy & Planning Department of Nunavut Tunngavik Inc. (NTI) maintains an Inuit Firm Registry in accordance with Article 24 of the Nunavut Agreement. A Certificate of Inuit Firm Status is issued to firms that meet the criteria of Article 24.

Article 24 requires the federal and Nunavut governments to improve the participation of Inuit firms in the economy of Nunavut, improve the capacity of Inuit firms to compete for government contracts, and secure the employment of Inuit at a representative level in the Nunavut work force.

What is an "Inuit Firm"?

An "Inuit Firm" means an entity which complies with the legal requirements to carry on business in the Nunavut Settlement Area, and which is:

  • a limited company with at least 51% of the company's voting shares beneficially owned by Inuit;
  • a cooperative controlled by Inuit; or
  • an Inuk sole proprietorship or partnership.

Ownership Classes

There are three classes of Inuit ownership within the Inuit Firm Registry:

  • Class 1: 51%-75% Inuit Ownership
  • Class 2: 76%-99% Inuit Ownership
  • Class 3: 100% Inuit Ownership

Benefits of Registration

NTI's Inuit Firm Registry is a tool to help governments meet their obligations under Article 24. Benefits include:

  • The Government of Nunavut's Nunavummi Nangminiqaqtunik Ikajuuti (NNI) Regulation establishes a preferential bid adjustment of 5% for Class 1 firms, 10% for Class 2, and 15% for Class 3 Inuit firms on tendered government contracts.
  • The Government of Canada is required to consult the registry when issuing contracts regarding Nunavut.
  • NTI applies an Inuit bid preference of up to 10% on its own contracts.
  • Atuqtuarvik Corporation uses the registry to determine eligibility for loan and equity financing.
  • Kivalliq Partners in Development, Kakivak Association, and the Kitikmeot Economic Development Commission use the registry to determine eligibility for certain grants and loans.
  • NTI and Regional Inuit Associations use the registry to maximize Inuit employment, training and business opportunities in land use licenses, leases, exploration agreements and Inuit Impact and Benefit Agreements.

Documents and Forms

Search the Registry

To search for registered Inuit firms, visit the Inuit Firm Registry search on the dedicated registry website.

Contact

For inquiries about the Inuit Firm Registry, contact:

Inuit Firm Registry Coordinator

Department of Economic Advancement

Nunavut Tunngavik Inc.

E-mail: inuitfirm@tunngavik.com