Arctic and Northern Policy Framework (Close-Out Report)

General information
Expenditures
Results

General information

Treasury Board (TB) spending authority has ended for the Arctic and Northern Policy Framework Horizontal Initiative. The delivery of a horizontal initiative, for all practical purposes, ends once the TB spending authority has ended, even if there remains residual ongoing funding to programs. For this reason, the Arctic and Northern Policy Framework Horizontal Initiative has been closed.

Lead department: Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada (CIRNAC)

Federal partner organizations: Global Affairs Canada (GAC) and Transport Canada (TC)

Start date: September 10, 2019

End date: 2030

Number of times renewed: Not applicable

Expenditures

Total federal funding from start to end date (authorities and actual)
Themes and internal services	Authorities (according to the TB submission)	Actual program spending (dollars total)	Actual Internal Services spending (dollars total)	Variance(s)
Theme 1: Canadian Arctic and northern Indigenous peoples are resilient and healthy	$9,000,000 (CIRNAC) $12,585,715 (GAC)	$8,896,319 (CIRNAC) $12,551,169 (GAC)	$0 (CIRNAC) $285,947 (GAC)	$103,681 (CIRNAC) -$251,401 (GAC)
Theme 2: Knowledge and understanding guides decision making	$12,970,000 (CIRNAC)	$12,970,000 (CIRNAC)	$0 (CIRNAC)	$0 (CIRNAC)
Theme 3: Strengthened infrastructure that closes gaps with other regions of Canada	$26,000,000 (CIRNAC) $400,000,000 (TC)	$18,893,521 (CIRNAC) $90,869,929 (TC)	$0 (CIRNAC) $634,436 (TC)	$7,106,479 (CIRNAC)^{Table note a} $308,495,635 (TC)
Theme 4: An international rules-based order in the Arctic that responds effectively to new challenges and opportunities	$22,458,368 (GAC)	$14,186,718 (GAC)	$285,947 (GAC)	$7,985,703 (GAC)
Totals	$483,014,083	$158,367,656	$1,206,330	$323,440,097
Table note 1 Represents planned spending in 2025–26 due to reprofiling of funds. Return to table note a referrer

Results

Brief explanation of performance

CIRNAC: Through contributions from CIRNAC, the Dechinta Centre for Research and Learning (Dechinta) strengthened its partnerships with universities, colleges, and most importantly Indigenous communities across the Northwest Territories, Yukon, and Nunavut. Dechinta's land-based, community-developed post-secondary education programming is unique not only in Canada but also around the world. Its academic programs offer students the opportunity to take university-accredited courses closer to home, providing the support and confidence needed to pursue higher education. In 2024, Dechinta completed a Return on Investment Report focused on Elders and Dechinta students, which reported a 225% return on investment.

Through a grant from CIRNAC to the Government of the Northwest Territories for the Aurora College transformation, funding was provided to support initiatives such as the development of the Facilities Master Plan and upgrades to the Western Arctic Research Centre. Subsequently, the college transitioned to a board governance structure, having previously been managed directly by the Government of Northwest Territories.

Through a contribution from CIRNAC, Yukon University finalized the design, permitting, and contracting for the construction of a new science building that will incorporate Indigenous knowledge, ceremonial areas, and meeting spaces. The University has advanced this project despite several challenging circumstances, including its transition to university status, the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, and significant increases in construction costs due to inflation and other factors. Construction began in April 2025 and is expected to be completed in 2027.

With funding from CIRNAC, the Task Force on Post-Secondary Education in the North was launched in 2020. In 2021, regional engagement sessions were held with more than 300 participants, and an online survey was completed by over 500 individuals across the North. On March 31, 2022, the Task Force presented its final report to the Minister of Northern Affairs, including 37 calls to action aimed at improving post-secondary education in the North.

TC: TC has supported the recipients of projects approved under the National Trade Corridors Fund (NTCF) Arctic and Northern (A&N) call for proposals. A total of 16 projects in Arctic and Northern regions, assessed under A&N call for proposals, have been approved for a total of $299.7M. A scope change and realignment of funding has reduced the approved funding for A&N call projects to $217.2M. Additionally, TC has negotiated and signed contribution agreements for 15 of the 16 A&N call projects, where 5 of the projects have been completed to date. While the ANPF HI reporting cycle has ended, TC's related funding continues through 2027–28. TC will continue to negotiate the remaining contribution agreement and monitor the progress of those projects that are underway to support their overall objectives.

TC's Arctic Secretariat furthered its engagement efforts and supported studies to better understand emerging issues affecting the northern transportation system.

GAC: From 2020–21 to 2024–25, the Global Arctic Leadership Initiative (GALI ) supported over 53 grants and contributions initiatives, many of which included sub-projects, to promote and protect Canada's values and interests in the circumpolar Arctic through actions that:

Strengthened Indigenous leadership and broadened Canadian participation in Arctic governance by supporting a range of initiatives, including Illuminating Worldviews – Arctic Rendering which engaged over 300 participants through co-learning journeys, public dialogues, and international forums. GALI also supported Indigenous and Northern leadership through the appointment of the University of the Arctic's (UArctic) Indigenous Fellows, the funding of Indigenous-led research and relationship development projects, and the facilitation of participation in international Arctic events. GALI also enhanced Indigenous leadership and representation in Arctic governance through ongoing support to the 3 Canada-based Indigenous Permanent Participants to the Arctic Council.
Supported Canadian youth and Indigenous representation in global decision-making spaces through participation in international Arctic conferences, leadership development programs, policy hackathons, and cross-cultural exchanges. The program provided a wide array of learning experiences, mentorships, and other opportunities to over 3500 young Arctic and Northern Canadian Indigenous and non-Indigenous individuals.
Enabled Indigenous knowledge holders, youth, and community leaders to contribute to global policy discussions, while promoting inclusive, community-driven approaches to Arctic governance and decision-making.
Provided support for UArctic's activities, allowing Canada to increase its participation in Arctic research and knowledge exchange related to Arctic human, social and economic development, and environmental protection. This work included the participation of 40 Canadian institutions and 42 communities since 2020–21.
Prioritized the knowledge and voices of Indigenous Peoples in UArctic's work through 29 research projects that connected research institutions with Indigenous communities and knowledge holders, supported Indigenous youth storytelling and film production, and ensured Indigenous perspectives were embedded in new thematic networks and collaborative programming. These efforts are building a more connected, inclusive, and empowered generation of Arctic leaders grounded in Indigenous knowledge, regional realities, and global collaboration.
Strengthened Canada's leadership in Arctic governance through support to 51 Arctic Council initiatives (projects and sub-projects). This included advancing the use of Indigenous Knowledge in biodiversity monitoring via the Circumpolar Biodiversity Monitoring Program, which brings together scientists, Indigenous organizations, and conservation groups to address biodiversity pressures. GALI also contributed Canadian scientific data to the Arctic Contaminants Action Program, supporting efforts to monitor and reduce mercury contamination across the circumpolar Arctic.
Strengthened people-to-people ties across the Arctic by supporting immersive learning journeys, cultural exchanges, and collaborative research that brought together youth, Indigenous knowledge holders, educators, and community leaders. Through initiatives such as the UNLEASH methodology-based innovation and Arctic policy hackathons, the North2North mobility program, and UArctic-supported thematic networks, GALI enabled approximately 2000 individuals, including students, faculty, and community members, to build lasting relationships, share knowledge, and foster mutual understanding across regions and cultures since 2020–21.
Promoted Canada's Arctic leadership and interests abroad by supporting over 45 speakers from Arctic and Northern Canada, particularly Indigenous representatives, to participate in international conferences and events between 2022–23 and 2024–25.

Horizontal initiative overview

Name of horizontal initiative: Arctic and Northern Policy Framework

Horizontal initiative shared outcome: Strong, self-reliant people and communities working together for a vibrant, prosperous and sustainable Arctic region at home and abroad, while expressing Canada's enduring Arctic sovereignty

Total federal funding allocated: $483,014,083

2024–25 planned spending: $67,711,243

2024–25 actual spending: $45,993,543

Performance indicators, targets and trend data
Departments	Performance indicators	Targets	Date to achieve targets	Trend data
CIRNAC	Community well-being as a result of an increase in access to post-secondary education opportunities in the North and Arctic	Increase Community Well-Being Index to 72 (2016 baseline: 67)	March 31, 2029	Not applicable Results will be available after the next census in 2026
GAC	Level of well-being of the communities in the Canadian territories (based on the Community Well-Being Index Score)	An increase in the score for each of these communities (2016 baseline: Inuit communities 60.7, First Nations communities 66.3, Non-Indigenous communities 81.4)	March 31, 2025	Census 2021: Inuit communities 62.7, First Nations communities 72.7, Non-Indigenous communies 81.6
GAC	Equitability of the score of the well-being of the communities in the Canadian territories (based on the Community Well-Being Index Score)	A decrease in the difference between the scores in these communities (2016 baseline: Inuit communities 60.7, First Nations communities 66.3, Non-Indigenous communities 81.4)	March 31, 2025	Census 2021: Non-Indigenous vs Inuit+1.80 (Gap narrowed), Non-Indigenous vs First Nations +6.20 (Gap narrowed significantly) First Nations vs Inuit −4.40 (Gap widened)^{Table note a}
TC	Percentage of projects funded by the NTCF that align with and address the key priorities of the ANPF: to strengthen infrastructure that closes gaps with other regions in Canada	100%	March 31, 2028	2021–22: 100% 2022–23: 100% 2023–24: 100% 2024–25: 100%
Table note 1 The target was not met because the last census took place in 2021, the same year GAC received the funding. Return to table note a referrer

Theme 1 details

Name of theme: Canadian Arctic and northern Indigenous Peoples are resilient and healthy

Total federal theme funding allocated: $21,585,715

2024–25 federal theme planned spending: $2,645,368

2024–25 federal theme actual spending: $3,592,140

Theme 1 outcomes, performance indicators, targets and trend data
Theme outcomes	Theme performance indicators	Theme targets	Date to achieve theme targets	Trend data
Northern Indigenous Peoples have achieved post-secondary education level comparable to other Canadians	Difference between the percentage of northern / Indigenous adults (aged 25 to 64) with a post-secondary certificate, diploma or degree and the percentage of other Canadian adults (aged 25 to 64) with a post-secondary certificate, diploma or degree	Target 33.5% Baseline 29.4% (2016)	March 31, 2027	26.3% (2021)^{Table note a} Updated information will be available after the next census
Increased availability of post-secondary education in Canada's 3 territories	Number of students registered in post-secondary education programs in the territories	3963 (7% increase in 5 year average enrollment from 2018–19)	March 31, 2027	2,940^{Table note b}
Increased contributions to international Arctic research, discussions, and events by northern Canadians, including Indigenous Peoples, women and youth	Number of Canadians (men/women, Indigenous, youth) participating in international Arctic research and events	120 Canadians (annual target)	March 31, 2025	2022–23: 357 (401 since 2021–22) 2023–24: 1264 (since 2021–22) 2024–25: 555 (2035 since 2021–22)
Table note 1 Educational Attainment for Indigenous Peoples, Aged 25 to 64 Years, Residing in Canada's Territories, Statistics Canada, Census of Population, 2021. Return to table note a referrer Statistics Canada, Census of Population, 2021. Return to table note b referrer

Theme 1 horizontal initiative activities

Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada

Link to department's program inventory: Northern Strategic and Science Policy

Horizontal initiative activity: Establish a task force on post-secondary education in the North

Total federal funding allocated to the activity: $1,000,000

2024–25 planned spending for the horizontal initiative activity: $0 (funding was for 2020–21 and 2021–22)

2024–25 actual spending for the horizontal initiative activity: $0

Expected results, performance indicators, targets and trend data
2024–25 horizontal initiative activity expected results	2024–25 horizontal initiative activity performance indicators	2024–25 horizontal initiative activity targets	Date to achieve horizontal initiative activity targets	Trend data
Independent advice from a youth perspective on closing gaps (North/South, Indigenous/Non-Indigenous) in post-secondary education attainment in the North	A final report containing a set of recommendations	The report was released in March 2022 and includes 37 calls to action	Not applicable	Completed

Link to department's program inventory: Northern Strategic and Science Policy

Horizontal initiative activity: Funding to support development of Aurora College's research capacity and support planning for the institution's transition to a polytechnic university

Total federal funding allocated to the activity: $8,000,000

2024–25 planned spending for the horizontal initiative activity: $0 (funding was for 2021–22 and 2022–23)

2024–25 actual spending for the horizontal initiative activity: $0

Expected results, performance indicators, targets and trend data
2024–25 horizontal initiative activity expected results	2024–25 horizontal initiative activity performance indicators	2024–25 horizontal initiative activity targets	Date to achieve horizontal initiative activity targets	Trend data
Enhanced research capacity for Aurora College as it transitions to a polytechnic university	Percentage completion of the Western Arctic Research Centre's infrastructure upgrades	100%	March 31, 2025	2023–24: 35% 2024–25: 80%^{Table note a}
	Successful completion of the Research Services Team Pilot	Pilot is completed	Not applicable	Completed
Engagement is diverse and reflective of the territorial population, leading to the Implementation of an Equity, Diversity and Inclusiveness Plan including updates to the Aurora College Traditional Knowledge Policy	Percentage of self-identified Indigenous students registered at Aurora College	60%	March 31, 2025	2023–24: 63% 2024–25: 52.3%
	Percentage of self-identified Indigenous employees working at Aurora College	40%	March 31, 2025	2023–24: 31% Indigenous Aboriginal 7% Indigenous Non-Aboriginal (Based only on indeterminate employees) 2024–25: 34%
	Percentage of registered students self-declared as residents of NWT	80%	March 31, 2025	2023–24: 84.9% 2024–25: 47.3%
Table note 1 The scheduled completion date for this activity has been updated to September 2025. Return to table note a referrer

Global Affairs Canada

Link to department's program inventory: Europe, Arctic, Middle East and Maghreb Policy and Diplomacy

Horizontal initiative activity: Developing a youth engagement strategy

Total federal funding allocated to the activity: $6,400,000

2024–25 planned spending for the horizontal initiative activity: $1,410,184

2024–25 actual spending for the horizontal initiative activity: $1,720,168

Expected results, performance indicators, targets and trend data
2024–25 horizontal initiative activity expected results	2024–25 horizontal initiative activity performance indicators	2024–25 horizontal initiative activity targets	Date to achieve horizontal initiative activity targets	Trend data
Enhanced access for Canadian Arctic and northern youth to participate in international Arctic policy and programming	Number of Canadian Arctic and northern youth (men/women, Indigenous) provided with support to participate in international Arctic policy and programming	315 youth over 5 years	March 31, 2026	2021–22: 53 2022–23: 345 2023–24: 625 2024–25: 2802
	Level of satisfaction with support (5 = perfectly satisfied, 4 = very satisfied, 3 = satisfied, 2 = not satisfied, 1 = very dissatisfied, 0 = completely dissatisfied)	80% of youth rate satisfaction with support at 3 or higher	March 31, 2025	2021–22: 100% 2022–23: 95.5% 2023–24: 96.34% 2024–25: 97%
	Proportion of GALI initiatives involving youth that focus on health, resiliency and engagement in the northern and Arctic communities	80%	March 31, 2025	2020–21: 100% 2021–22: 100% 2022–23: 100% 2023–24: 100% 2024–25: 100%

Link to department's program inventory: Europe, Arctic, Middle East and Maghreb Policy and Diplomacy

Horizontal initiative activity: Creating opportunities for Indigenous Peoples to be active in circumpolar higher education and research cooperation

Total federal funding allocated to the activity: $6,185,715

2024–25 planned spending for the horizontal initiative activity: $1,235,184

2024–25 actual spending for the horizontal initiative activity: $1,871,971.54

Expected results, performance indicators, targets and trend data
2024–25 horizontal initiative activity expected results	2024–25 horizontal initiative activity performance indicators	2024–25 horizontal initiative activity targets	Date to achieve horizontal initiative activity targets	Trend data
Increased participation of northern Canadians, including Indigenous Peoples, with UArctic education and research programs	Number of Canadian institutions, students (men/women), and communities participating in knowledge exchange related to Arctic human, social, economic development and environmental protection	25-50 over 5 years (institutions: 5-10; students: 15-30; communities: 5-10)	March 31, 2026	2021–22: 8 2022–23: 19 Canadian institutions, 152 individuals (including Indigenous people), and 4 communities 2023–24: 6 Canadian institutions, 521 individuals (including Indigenous people), and 4 communities 2024–25: 23 Canadian institutions, 2544 individuals (including Indigenous people and elementary, high school and university students), and 14 communities
	Level of satisfaction of Indigenous participants with the level of participation or inclusion of Indigenous perspective (5 = perfectly satisfied, 4 = very satisfied, 3 = satisfied, 2 = not satisfied, 1 = very dissatisfied, 0 = completely dissatisfied)	75% between satisfied and very satisfied	March 31, 2025	2022–23: 100% 2023–24: 100% 2024–25: 100%

Theme 2 details

Name of theme: Knowledge and understanding guides decision making

Total federal theme funding allocated: $12,970,000

2024–25 federal theme planned spending: $0

2024–25 federal theme actual spending: $0

Theme 2 outcomes, performance indicators, targets and trend data
Theme outcomes	Theme performance indicators	Theme targets	Date to achieve theme targets	Trend data
Indigenous-based knowledge is increased through supported scientific and innovative research	Number of research publications written by a Dechinta Centre researcher or affiliated researcher	30	March 31, 2025	2023–24: 2 2024–25: 54^{Table note a}
Table note 1 The tri-councils (the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada, the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council, and the Canadian Institutes of Health Research) are increasingly considering diverse outputs in their assessment of research and knowledge mobilization, including community reports, art exhibitions, panel presentations, podcasts, and television. Return to table note a referrer

Theme 2 horizontal initiative activities

Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada

Link to department's program inventory: Northern Strategic and Science Policy

Horizontal initiative activity: Enhance the Dechinta Centre for Research and Learning

Total federal funding allocated to the activity: $12,970,000

2024–25 planned spending for the horizontal initiative activity: $0 (funding was from 2019–20 to 2023–24)

2024–25 actual spending for the horizontal initiative activity: $0

Expected results, performance indicators, targets and trend data
2024–25 horizontal initiative activity expected results	2024–25 horizontal initiative activity performance indicators	2024–25 horizontal initiative activity targets	Date to achieve horizontal initiative activity targets	Trend data
Indigenous-based knowledge is increased through supported scientific and innovative research	Number of research publications written by a Dechinta Centre researcher or affiliated researcher	30	March 31, 2025	2023–24: 2 2024–25: 54^{Table note a}
Table note 1 The tri-councils (the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada, the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council, and the Canadian Institutes of Health Research) are increasingly considering diverse outputs in their assessment of research and knowledge mobilization, including community reports, art exhibitions, panel presentations, podcasts, and television. Return to table note a referrer

Theme 3 details

Name of theme: Strengthened infrastructure that closes gaps with other regions of Canada

Total federal theme funding allocated: $426,000,000

2024–25 federal theme planned spending: $59,973,907

2024–25 federal theme actual spending: $38,832,892

Theme 3 outcomes, performance indicators, targets and trend data
Theme outcomes	Theme performance indicators	Theme targets	Date to achieve theme targets	Trend data
Closing the gaps in availability of post-secondary education infrastructure, with focus on science (CIRNAC)	Percent increase in the enrollment of students in science-based programs at Yukon University	50%	March 31, 2030	Not applicable^{Table note a}
Provide a strategic departmental approach which supports a strong Arctic and northern transportation system, and bolsters social and economic opportunities in the North (TC)	Provide priorities that support northern social and economic opportunities through the work of the ATPF to be considered for each northern-specific NTCF call for proposals	3 target areas (These include adapting to climate change, access to critical minerals, resilient supply chains)	March 31, 2025	2020–21: The NTCF Arctic and Northern call for proposals, launched in October 2020, incorporated priorities developed through the ATPF's engagement process. This includes virtual engagement conducted by TC's Arctic Secretariat throughout the Summer of 2020, and the funding of studies focused on concerns raised by key Northern partners, to further support the Northern transportation system 2022–23: TC did not launch a new Arctic and North call for proposals. The program focus was on supply chain fluidity and digitalization 2023–24: Completed - Priorities included: accessing critical minerals, and strengthening the Northern transportation system through the construction of all-weather roads 2024–25: TC did not launch a new Arctic and North call for proposals
Invest in trade corridors to address the transportation needs of the Arctic and North, including safety and socio-economic development (TC)	Percent of projects funded, including infrastructure projects, acquisition of technology and transportation related studies, that enhance existing or create new transportation connections between Arctic and Northern Communities and other regions within Canada and other countries	100%	March 31, 2028	100%
Implement targeted studies to better understand northern transportation needs and gaps, and to ensure priorities are well aligned with current and future northern funding initiatives, including the NTCF (TC)	Funding provided to the development of an annual study resulting from engagement workshops with Northerners that help better understand northern transportation needs and gaps, including linkages to potential infrastructure builds	100%	March 31, 2028	2023–24: TC supported 3 projects that focused on understanding Northern transportation needs and gaps: The Climate Change and Hull Coating Ablation from Re-Supply Vessels in Arctic Canada study aimed to identify sustainable alternatives to enhance maritime supply chain resilience The Unmanned Aerial Vehicle thermal imagery and Lidar study (surveys) for transportation infrastructure monitoring of permafrost environments explored the use of cutting-edge technologies for the monitoring of transportation infrastructure assets The Strengthening Northern Supply Chains and Food Security study investigated several innovative strategies, technological solutions, and best practices, to optimize Northern supply chain management 2024–25: TC supported 2 projects focused on understanding resiliency of northern transportation infrastructure affected by permafrost thaw: Unmanned Aerial Vehicle thermal imagery and LIDAR study (surveys) for transportation infrastructure monitoring in permafrost environments (2-year study) concluded this year Evaluation of sloped thermosyphons study at the Dry Creek (Yukon) test site
Table note 1 A result will only be available in 2030. Return to table note a referrer

Theme 3 horizontal initiative activities

Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada

Link to department's program inventory: Northern Strategic and Science Policy

Horizontal initiative activity: Construct the Yukon University Science Building

Total federal funding allocated to the activity: $26,000,000

2024–25 planned spending for the horizontal initiative activity: $8,144,317

2024–25 actual spending for the horizontal initiative activity: $8,144,317

Expected results, performance indicators, targets and trend data
2024–25 horizontal initiative activity expected results	2024–25 horizontal initiative activity performance indicators	2024–25 horizontal initiative activity targets	Date to achieve horizontal initiative activity targets	Trend data
Yukon College transition to a university is supported	A fully functional and ready to use science building at Yukon University	Science building is commissioned	December 2026	The construction of the science building commenced in April 2025 and is currently due to open for fall classes September 2027

Transport Canada

Link to department's program inventory: National Trade Corridors Fund (NTCF)

Horizontal initiative activity: Investments into meritorious transportation infrastructure projects that address the transportation priorities of the Arctic and North, identified through studies and engagement, including safety and socio-economic development

Total federal funding allocated to the activity: $400,000,000

2024–25 planned spending for the horizontal initiative activity: $51,829,590

2024–25 actual spending for the horizontal initiative activity: $30,688,575

Expected results, performance indicators, targets and trend data
2024–25 horizontal initiative activity expected results	2024–25 horizontal initiative activity performance indicators	2024–25 horizontal initiative activity targets	Date to achieve horizontal initiative activity targets	Trend data
Provide a strategic departmental approach which supports a strong Arctic transportation system, and bolsters social and economic opportunities in the North	Annual production of a study resulting from engagement workshops with Northerners that help better understand northern transportation needs and gaps, including linkages to potential infrastructure builds	100%	March 31, 2025	2021–22: TC funded 4 studies to support the Northern transportation system: The Nunavut Runways Study (Guy Doré) Decision Analysis Framework, supported by the Conference Board of Canada's Centre for the North Benchmarking Ground Thermal Model Predictions to Improve Future Design of Infrastructure in Permafrost Environments, supported by SRK Consulting Transformative Infrastructure Investments in Canada's Arctic Territories, supported by True North Consulting 2022–23: TC co-funded a Northern drone capacity building project in the territories, delivered by Spexi 2023–24: 100% 2024–25: 100%; TC conducted a study on the evaluation of socio-economic impacts of increased use of the Northwest Passage on surrounding Inuit communities
Invest in trade corridors to address the transportation needs of the Arctic and North, including safety and socio-economic development	Percent of projects funded, including infrastructure projects and transportation-related studies, that enhance existing transportation connections between Arctic and Northern communities and other regions or create new connections	100%	March 31, 2028	TC has approved $217.2M in program funding for 16 projects in Arctic and Northern regions that enhance existing connections between Arctic and Northern communities and other regions, or create new connections

Theme 4 details

Name of theme: An international rules-based order in the Arctic that responds effectively to new challenges and opportunities

Total federal theme funding allocated: $22,458,368

2024–25 federal theme planned spending: $5,091,968

2024–25 federal theme actual spending: $3,568,512

Theme 4 outcomes, performance indicators, targets and trend data
Theme outcomes	Theme performance indicators	Theme targets	Date to achieve theme targets	Trend data
Increased contribution in international Arctic decision making by northern Canadians, including Indigenous Peoples, women and youth)	Number of times northern Canadians were supported through GALI to participate in international Arctic decision-making forums that addressed issues of importance to the Canadian Arctic and northern communities (to be disaggregated by type of meeting)	Northern Canadians will be supported to participate in more than 50 meetings per year	March 31, 2025	2022–23: 40 (less meetings took place due to the pause of the Arctic Council) 2023–24: 51 2024–25: 27 (however some data is missing)
	Number out of total of international Arctic forums where Canadians (men/women, government, permanent participants, youth, Indigenous) are playing a leadership role	10 international Arctic forums where Canadians are playing a leadership role	March 31, 2025	2022–23: 400% increase (Canadians participated in more than 20 different international fora in leadership roles. The baseline data is 5 fora) 2023–24: 31 2024–25: 22
Enhanced Canadian engagement in strengthening international Arctic forums, including at the Arctic Council in areas of human, social, economic development and environmental protection	Number of Arctic Council projects in which Canadians participate (Canadian Permanent Participants, territorial or provincial governments, Canadian experts including federal government departments, Canada-led or co-led projects, projects funded by Canada)	40 projects	March 31, 2026	2023–24: 76 2024–25: 76
	Number of sessions or panels that include at least one Canadian participant at major Arctic Conferences (Arctic Circle Assembly, Arctic Frontiers Conference, Arctic Encounter Symposium)	70 sessions or panels a year	March 31, 2026	2023–24: 65 2024–25: 62

Theme 4 horizontal initiative activities

Global Affairs Canada

Link to department's program inventory: Europe, Arctic, Middle East and Maghreb Policy and Diplomacy

Horizontal initiative activity: Lead or co-lead Arctic Council projects that advance Canadian priorities

Total federal funding allocated to the activity: $5,770,000

2024–25 planned spending for the horizontal initiative activity: $1,290,631

2024–25 actual spending for the horizontal initiative activity: $1,134,139

Expected results, performance indicators, targets and trend data
2024–25 horizontal initiative activity expected results	2024–25 horizontal initiative activity performance indicators	2024–25 horizontal initiative activity targets	Date to achieve horizontal initiative activity targets	Trend data
Increased capacity for Canada to contribute to the Arctic Council's initiatives that benefit our North	Number out of total of Arctic Council initiatives led or co-led by Canada	8 projects every year (40 projects over 5 years)	March 31, 2025	2021–22: 6 projects 2022–23: 6 projects 2023–24: 20 projects 2024–25: 12 projects and sub-projects funded 51 projects and sub projects were funded by GALI since 2020–21
	Proportion out of total Arctic Council projects that advance GBA Plus, including issues of priority for Indigenous Peoples	20% increase in the proportion of Arctic Council projects that advance GBA Plus, including issues of priority for Indigenous Peoples	March 31, 2025	2022–23: 4 projects out of 6 included issues of priority for Indigenous Peoples (the 2 other projects were more administrative in nature) 2023–24: 45% (9 projects out of 20) 2024–25: 50% (6 projects out of 12)

Link to department's program inventory: Europe, Arctic, Middle East and Maghreb Policy and Diplomacy

Horizontal initiative activity: Establish a Canadian-based permanent secretariat for the Sustainable Development Working Group

Total federal funding allocated to the activity: $6,650,000

2024–25 planned spending for the horizontal initiative activity: $1,495,519

2024–25 actual spending for the horizontal initiative activity: $578,328.51

Expected results, performance indicators, targets and trend data
2024–25 horizontal initiative activity expected results	2024–25 horizontal initiative activity performance indicators	2024–25 horizontal initiative activity targets	Date to achieve horizontal initiative activity targets	Trend data
Increased capacity for Canada to advance the work of the Arctic Council's Sustainable Development Working Group (SDWG)	Number of projects funded with the project fund	At least 2 new projects are funded every year	March 31, 2025	Not applicable^{Table note a}
	Proportion out of total SDWG projects that advance GBA Plus, including issues of priority for Indigenous Peoples	20% of the projects include issues of priority	March 31, 2029	Not applicable^{Table note a}
Table note 1 The Arctic Council's Sustainable Development Working Group (SDWG) has yet to create the project fund. Return to table note a referrer

Link to department's program inventory: Europe, Arctic, Middle East and Maghreb Policy and Diplomacy

Horizontal initiative activity: Strengthen capacity of the Canadian Permanent Participants to engage in Arctic Council work

Total federal funding allocated to the activity: $9,488,368

2024–25 planned spending for the horizontal initiative activity: $2,173,344

2024–25 actual spending for the horizontal initiative activity: $1,436,389

Expected results, performance indicators, targets and trend data
2024–25 horizontal initiative activity expected results	2024–25 horizontal initiative activity performance indicators	2024–25 horizontal initiative activity targets	Date to achieve horizontal initiative activity targets	Trend data^{Table note a}
Enhanced capacity of the Canada-based Indigenous Permanent Participants to engage in Arctic foreign policy and programming	Number of inputs or positions where Canada-based Permanent Participants advocate their positions at the Arctic Council, Working Groups and Senior Arctic Officials meetings	Inuit Circumpolar Council: at least 15 per year^{Table note b}	March 31, 2025	2022–23: 7 2023–24: 7 2024–25: 9
		Arctic Athabaskan Council: at least 5 per year	March 31, 2025	2022–23: 6 2023–24: Not applicable 2024–25: Not applicable
		Gwitch'in Council International: at least 10 per year	March 31, 2025	2022–23: 5 2023–24: 4 2024–25: 18
	Number of international Arctic policy meetings attended by representatives of Canada-based permanent participants (men / women / Arctic Athabaskan Council / Gwitch'in Council International / Inuit Circumpolar Council)	Permanent Participants are able to attend 50 meetings in total per year (each calculating the meetings they attended)	March 31, 2025	2021–22: 57 meetings 2022–23: 88 international Arctic policy meetings attended 2023–24: 68 international Arctic policy meetings attended 2024–25: 34, however some data is missing
Table note 1 Delays were encountered with the Artic Council pause. Return to table note a referrer The variance between the target and results is due to how the Inuit Circumpolar Council (ICC) opted to count the number of inputs or positions. Return to table note b referrer

Link to department's program inventory: Europe, Arctic, Middle East and Maghreb Policy and Diplomacy

Horizontal initiative activity: Communications and advocacy activities in support of the implementation of the international Arctic policy (operational funding)

Total federal funding allocated to the activity: $550,000

2024–25 planned spending for the horizontal initiative activity: $132,474

2024–25 actual spending for the horizontal initiative activity: $419,655

Expected results, performance indicators, targets and trend data
2024–25 horizontal initiative activity expected results	2024–25 horizontal initiative activity performance indicators	2024–25 horizontal initiative activity targets	Date to achieve horizontal initiative activity targets	Trend data
Increased GAC capacity for communication and advocacy, including Canadian missions abroad, on Canada's international Arctic policy to domestic and international audiences	Engagement rate on the Canada Arctic social media	Engagement rate increase of 6% per year	March 31, 2025	2023–24: X – French: 2.40% X – English: 2.27% X – Average: 2.33% Instagram – French: 4.63% Instagram – English: 3.89% Instagram – Average: 4.26% 2024–25: X – French: 8.38% X – English: 5.35% X – Average: 6.86% Instagram – French: 9.58% Instagram – English: 6.23% Instagram – Average: 7.91%
	Number of speakers GALI supported to (Canadian, Men/Women, youth, Indigenous, Northern/Southern, urban/country side) participate in polar events	16	March 31, 2025	2022–23: 18 2023–24: 11 2024–25: 16

Programs receiving ongoing funding


Federal organization	Program	Ongoing funding	Purpose
CIRNAC	Northern Strategic and Science Policy	2024–25: $0 2025–26: $0 2026–27: $0	No ongoing funding
TC	National Trade Corridors Fund (NTCF)	2024–25: $144,025,602 2025–26: $100,370,929 2026–27: $85,696,513 2027–28: $20,000,000	The NTCF is a competitive, merit-based program that invests in infrastructure projects that improves the flow of goods and people in Canada, addresses the unique transportation needs of Arctic and northern communities, and helps the transportation system withstand the effects of climate change. This includes supporting the adaptation of new technologies and innovation. Through the NTCF, the Government of Canada is investing in well-functioning trade corridors that improve the flow of goods and people in Canada, to help Canadians compete in key international markets.
GAC	Europe, Arctic, Middle East and Maghreb Policy and Diplomacy	2024–25: $8,005,591 including internal services 2025–26: $9,281,419 including internal services 2026–27: $9,317,787	The purpose of the Global Arctic Leadership Initiative (GALI) is to strengthen Canada's global leadership in the Arctic. Each year, it contributes to initiatives that address gaps and promote Canada's interests and values in international Arctic engagement. GALI supports the implementation of the international chapter of Canada's Arctic and Northern Policy Framework and of the Arctic Foreign Policy, and ensures Arctic and Northern voices, in particular Indigenous and youth, are included in circumpolar and international forums.
Total		2024–25: $152,031,193 2025–26: $109,652,348 2026–27: $95,014,300 2027–28: $29,317,787

Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation:

A Horizontal Evaluation of Nutrition North Canada (NNC), led by CIRNAC, is underway and expected to be completed by March 2026.

An Evaluation of Northern Strategic and Science Policy is underway and expected to be completed by March 2026.

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Date modified:: 2025-11-07