Debates of February 27, 2023 (day 141)

Date
February
27
2023
Session
19th Assembly, 2nd Session
Day
141
Members Present
Hon. Diane Archie, Hon. Frederick Blake Jr., Hon. Paulie Chinna, Ms. Cleveland, Hon. Caroline Cochrane, Mr. Edjericon, Hon. Julie Green, Mr. Johnson, Ms. Martselos, Ms. Nokleby, Mr. O’Reilly, Ms. Semmler, Hon. R.J. Simpson, Mr. Rocky Simpson, Hon. Shane Thompson, Hon. Caroline Wawzonek, Ms. Weyallon Armstrong
Topics
Statements

Minister’s Statement 315-19(2): Launch of Online Funding Portal

Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to announce today the launch of a new funding portal on the Government of the Northwest Territories website that will make it easier for territorial residents, businesses, nonprofits, nongovernmental organizations, and others, to find information and access funding opportunities offered by the Government of the Northwest Territories. This initiative also advances our government's commitment to open government by making government information accessible in a way that is responsive to the needs and expectations of NWT residents.

Mr. Speaker, the government's job is to help improve the lives of the people we serve. We must not only accomplish our broader mandate objectives but also make smaller meaningful improvements along the way. These actions are the building blocks to accomplishing our broader priorities and this funding portal represents one of these smaller but significant achievements.

Mr. Speaker, the Government of the Northwest Territories provides over 120 unique funding programs to residents, delivered by nine departments and agencies across the government. It is understandable that sometimes residents have difficulty finding these programs as the information, while provided online, is located on various government websites. This comprehensive new funding portal brings all these programs together in one online location. Residents can filter through based on who they are and what kind of funding they are looking for. The launch of this portal provides citizens with a clear and simple path to accessing the monetary support they need.

Mr. Speaker, whether you are a small business owner looking to grow, a nonprofit organization seeking support, or an individual who needs financial assistance, this new feature on our main GNWT website allows you to find the resources and supports you need to succeed.

It also represents equitable access to government funding, Mr. Speaker. Some residents of the Northwest Territories are less familiar with today’s online world, and many struggle to navigate websites to find what they need. This small improvement means that more residents, regardless of their comfort level with technology, can more easily understand and access funding and support available to them. The launch of this portal is a direct response to what I have heard from residents, businesses, and nongovernment organizations across the territory. It demonstrates our commitment to empowering residents and providing the resources they need to thrive. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.