Indigenous Companies Reflect on 25-Year Participation in the NWT Diamond Mining Industry
As the Northwest Territories’ diamond mining era nears its end, two powerful documents—Media Release: Indigenous Companies Reflect on 25-Year Participation in the NWT Diamond Mining Industry and Eyes on Indigenous Development Corporations—offer both celebration and caution.
For over two decades, Indigenous Development Corporations (IDCs) such as Det’on Cho Group, Tłı̨chǫ Investment Corporation, and Metcor Inc. have been instrumental in shaping the region’s mining success. In 2023 alone, these organizations supported 355 Indigenous jobs and generated $104 million in revenue—36% of all local business spending by the mines. Their work has built award-winning capacity, empowered communities, and laid the foundation for long-term economic self-sufficiency.
However, the Eyes on IDCs report warns of a looming economic shift. With mine closures expected within five years, the IDCs face significant losses in employment, revenue, and community support. The report urges immediate action to preserve the gains made and explore new opportunities for growth.
Together, these documents highlight the legacy of Indigenous leadership in NWT’s resource sector—and the urgent need to plan for a future beyond diamonds.
To learn more, download the full reports: