Business and Economy

Services and supports for Northerners that drive business and grow our economy.

Business names and registration

Business licensing

Entrepreneur support

In this section

Agriculture and food

Support for northern food development, funding opportunities, and resources to ensure safe and sustainable practices.

Business licences, taxes, and regulations

Information on permits, licenses, registrations, taxes, and regulations for operating a business in the NWT.

Commercial fishing

Programs, services, and resources available for commercial fishing in the NWT.

Doing business with the GNWT

Everything you need to know about selling goods and services to the GNWT, using the Business Incentive Policy, submitting invoices, and getting paid.

Forestry

Apply for timber permits and licences in the NWT.

Manufacturing

Incentives for local production and manufacturing of goods for the use of the GNWT under the Business Incentive Policy (BIP).

Mines and minerals

Programs and services to support responsible mineral resources development through regulations, funding, industry partnership, and economic growth initiatives.

Not-for-Profit

Programs and services that provide funding, housing supports, and legal or corporate registration resources to strengthen communities, non-profits, and local organizations.

Petroleum

Access programs, approvals, data, and resources related to oil and gas in the NWT.

Small businesses and entrepreneurs

Programs and funding available for small businesses and entrepreneurs in the NWT.

Starting a business

Information, services, and supports to help guide and grow your business.

Tourism operators

Information for current and future tourism operators on licensing, training opportunities, and funding.

Traditional economy

A traditional economy is based on long-standing cultural practices and the use of local natural resources to support livelihoods and community well-being. Find programs and services that support traditional economies in the NWT.
Updated: Apr 30, 2026