Overview
The Indigenous Development and Training Program supports Indigenous employees in the Government of the Northwest Territories by funding skills training that helps them grow in their careers or move into new roles.
Eligible employees can receive up to $10,000 each fiscal year for approved training.
Who is eligible?
Current GNWT employees who identify as Indigenous persons under the the Indigenous Employment Policy and:
- require skills training to obtain or maintain sustainable employment with opportunities for career or professional advancement;
- have shown a desire for developmental opportunities that support career advancement; and
- have identified the learning goal in their learning plan.
How to apply
Step 1: Complete the Indigenous Development and Training Program application with support from your manager or supervisor. Confirm that the training activities in your application are included in your Learning Plan.
Step 2: Review the two intake periods during the fiscal year to decide when to submit your application.
Intake period 1: February 7 - March 17, 2026
Intake period 2: August 8 - September 14, 2026
Apply for Intake period 1 if you need funding for a program between April 1 2026 and September 30, 2026. Apply for Intake period 2 if you need funding for a program between October 1, 2026 and March 31, 2026.
Step 3: Email your completed application to diversityandinclusion@gov.nt.ca.
- applications sent through GNWT scanner will not be accepted as applicant details and contact information cannot be confirmed; and
- be ready to provide clarifying information if details in the application are not sufficient for evaluation.
Once submitted, your application will be evaluated by the review committee.
How are applications evaluated?
Applications are reviewed to determine whether they meet the program objectives of supporting career advancement or career mobility. The review committee assesses:
- the letter of intent for clarity on goals;
- the training details and training plan for relevance and value; and
- your explanation of how the training supports your career growth or mobility.
Priority is given to:
- first‑time applicants; and
- multiyear applications.
All applications must still meet program criteria and remain subject to available funding. Committee members make final decisions with consideration for equitable access to funding.
Applications that are considered department‑mandated training will be denied, as this program does not fund mandatory training.
When will I receive an update?
Applications are reviewed by the Diversity and Inclusion Committee during the week following each intake period. After the review:
- approved applicants will receive an approval package outlining next steps and any requirements; and
- applicants who are not approved will receive notification by email.
Resources
Indigenous Development and Training Program Application