Canadian WinTech Resource Series Community Spotlight: Yellowknife, Whitehorse and Fort McMurray
Image is of a group with a close up on their hands, they are holding pens and writing on different coloured pieces of paper on a table that also has a water bottle and cup on it.
We help navigate the tech ecosystem in Canada by curating resources to help and support women in tech. This installation focuses on the beautiful far northern cities of Yellowknife, Whitehorse and Fort McMurray
Yellowknife, Northwest Territories
Approximately 400 kilometres south of the Arctic Circle, Yellowknife is the capital and only city of the Northwest Territories. Known as the Aurora capital of North America, Yellowknife offers stunning views of the Northern Lights, plus other unique natural and cultural experiences. Although mining is one of the main industries, the tech sector is seeing huge growth.
Tech resources and support in Yellowknife:
Native Women's Association of the NWT: This not-for-profit organization was created to empower and support Aboriginal women and their families.
LOOKNorth: Through collaboration, understanding user needs, and information-sharing, LOOKNorth develops and transports natural resources safely, responsibly, and sustainably.
Yellowknife Chamber of Commerce: The Chamber strives to be a leader in the improvement and development of a strong business community in Yellowknife.
Whitehorse, Yukon
This capital, and only city of the Yukon, is located at kilometre 1426 on the Alaska Highway. Whitehorse boasts the basalt cliffs of former gold rush town Miles Canyon, the Yukon River Loop Trail, and the Takhini Hot Pools mineral springs. Their economy thrives on mining, tourism, hunting and fishing, but the technology sector has grown steadily in recent years.
Tech resources and support in Whitehorse:
Yukon Women in Trades and Technology: Through programming opportunities, education and support, this non-profit organization encourages girls and young women into trades and technology jobs.
Startup Whitehorse: This organization helps to grow startups and businesses through programs, networking and resources.
TechYukon: TechYukon hosts discussions, networking events, workshops and conferences, which grow the Yukon’s tech industry.
(Co)Space: Created by YuKonstruct, (Co)Space is a workspace for the entrepreneurial community. They foster business development and innovation through programming and events.
Fort McMurray, Alberta
Although Fort McMurray is usually known for its oil sands, the heart of Wood Buffalo boasts a plethora of activities and attractions. The area offers UNESCO World Heritage site, Wood Buffalo National Park. Of course, it’s a great place to view the Aurora Borealis. This boomtown has one of North America’s strongest economies. It’s no surprise that the economy relies on oil production, but the rapid growth of the tech sector might surprise some.
Tech Resources and Support in Fort McMurray:
Fort McMurray Chamber of Commerce: The Chamber promotes growth and economic development. It advocates for sound public policy and serves members with outstanding programs and benefits.
Girls Inc. of Northern Alberta: This non-profit organization inspires girls to break free from gender stereotypes and create social change through research-based programs. Specifically, their program, Operation SMART, develops enthusiasm and skills in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).
Wood Buffalo Economic Development: Through networking, resources and events, this group is developing the Wood Buffalo area economy.
Wood Buffalo Regional Innovation Network: Supported and funded by Alberta Innovates, this network group supports start-ups and expansions.
Brain STEM Alliance: This network of volunteer consultants creates curricula for workshops, programs and conferences, which promote youth education in STEM. The Alliance works with non-profits, charities and educational institutions, to build their goals and missions.
Community Futures: This non-profit organization provides services and tools for people wanting to start, expand, franchise or sell a business. Since 1986, they have fostered rural economic growth through their programs and events.