The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) is taking concrete steps to enhance its support for the non-profit and charitable sector, recognizing the essential role these organizations play in delivering critical programs and services to NWT residents.

As outlined in the Mandate of the Government of the Northwest Territories, the GNWT is committed to enhancing health care access, supporting people affected by trauma, and strengthening collaborative governance. A key part of this effort is forging stronger partnerships with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to ensure they have the resources and support needed to deliver vital frontline services

Building on the recommendations of the 2023 Strengthening the Non-Profit and Charitable Sector External Advisory Committee Report, the GNWT is taking action to enhance engagement, streamline administrative processes, and improve funding stability for non-governmental organizations (NGOs). The Department of Executive and Indigenous Affairs (EIA) is leading this work, serving as the central point of contact for NGOs at the policy and planning level.

The external advisory committee identified longstanding challenges within the sector, including the complexity of GNWT funding processes, the need for multi-year funding agreements, and the importance of fostering trusting relationships between NGOs and government. In response, the GNWT is taking a more coordinated, data-driven approach to decision-making and working directly with NGOs to strengthen partnerships, reduce red tape, and improve collaboration across government departments.

As part of this effort, the GNWT is:

• Standardizing and streamlining funding processes to improve transparency and reduce the administrative burden on NGOs.
• Enhancing coordination across GNWT departments to improve data sharing and policy alignment for more responsive decision-making.
• Expanding direct engagement with the sector to ensure NGOs have the tools and support needed to effectively serve NWT communities.

Related links

• Strengthening the Non-Profit and Charitable Sector External Advisory Committee Report

For media requests, please contact:
Beau Stobbs
Senior Communications Officer
Department of Executive and Indigenous Affairs
Government of the Northwest Territories
EIA_FINComms@gov.nt.ca