Community Economic Development (SEED)
Helping local communities and organizations to develop their economies, advance regional economic development initiatives, and/or invest in events promoting economic opportunities.
Overview
The Community Economic Development program provides funding to local communities and organizations looking to:
- further develop their economies,
- advance regional economic development initiatives, and/or
- invest in events promoting economic opportunities.
As of April 1, 2026, arts and film projects will no longer be funded through the SEED Programs.
If you are looking for arts or film funding, please review GNWT Funding programs filtered by category: Arts, Culture and Languages.
Funding available
Under the Community Economic Development program, up to $25,000 in support can be provided in four categories:
- Feasibility studies, strategic plans, evaluations and planning costs that investigate economic opportunities and build on existing community resources
- The purchase or further development of physical infrastructure (i.e. capital assets) where the lack of infrastructure constrains business development
- Improving access to business information
- Host and promote community events that showcase local economic development.
There are minimum Equity Requirements, these are determined by community:
- Group 1 communities (Yellowknife, Hay River, Fort Smith, and Inuvik) – 30% of project costs
- Group 2 communities (all other communities within NWT) – 20% of project costs
Deadline
Funding is available from April 1 to March 31st annually.
Eligibility
NWT-based associations, municipalities, and Indigenous organizations are encouraged to apply.
How to apply
Contact your regional Economic Development Officer.
It is strongly recommended that you contact your regional Economic Development Officer to discuss your idea prior to the development of your proposal.
Find your Industry, Tourism and Investment regional office here.
Complete an application form and attach all required documents.
Complete the Community Economic Development Program (SEED Funding) application form and attach all required documents identified in the application checklist (part of the application form).
Submit the completed application form to your regional office.
Submit the completed application form with required documents to your regional office.
Find your Industry, Tourism and Investment regional office here.