Development corporations
With implementing their Final and Self-Government Agreements, Yukon First Nation governments are also working towards becoming self-sustaining. With this in mind, many First Nations have created arms-length First Nation development corporations.
A number of these are thriving with investments in businesses, joint ventures and partnerships across many sectors, in and outside of the Yukon, including real estate, fire suppression, manufacturing, construction, transportation, fuel distribution, transportation, retail and product distribution.
Development Corporations support the economic development of First Nations
Economic opportunities are essential to the financial and job security for First Nations citizens. Development Corporations are an important driver of these opportunities. Development Corporations are the economic and business development arm of a First Nations.
These community-owned businesses invest in, own and/or manage subsidiary businesses with the goal of benefiting the First Nations citizens that they represent.
Development Corporations measure success in terms of financial growth and economic and social benefits for the community.
These are examples of Yukon First Nation development corporations.
Dakwakada Capital Investments (DCI)
Dakwakada Capital Investments (DCI) is the business arm of the Champagne and Aishihik First Nations. DCI is focused on targeting investment opportunities within the Yukon and beyond.
Dakwakada is the sole shareholder in Castle Rock Enterprises, known for quality infrastructure projects, and is the majority shareholder of Northerm Windows and Doors.
Da Daghay Development Corporation (DDDC)
Da Daghay Development Corporation (DDDC) is the economic development arm of the Ta'an Kwach'an Council. It has a portfolio of over 80,000 square feet of commercial and residential properties, making it the second largest land owner in Whitehorse.
One of the Development Corporation’s projects is River Bend, a 42-unit build in Whistle Bend. DDDC has partnered with Ta’an Kwäch’än Council, Yukon Government, and Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation to build River Bend with the goal of providing affordable rental solutions to Ta’an Kwäch’än Council Citizens and Yukoners alike.
Carcross Tagish Management Corporation
The Carcross/Tagish First Nation and their economic development arm, the Carcross Tagish Management Corporation, have been bringing opportunities to their Citizens and building vibrant community spaces that bring people together.
The Carcross Commons is one such success story. The Commons is a place for the community and visitors to share experiences and build understanding.
Selkirk Development Corporation
The Selkirk Centre - the gas and grocery story in Pelly Crossing - is owned and managed by the Selkirk Development Corporation. First Nations often invest in infrastructure and businesses that are critical to the sustainability and vitality of their communities. First Nations investments are key to the wellbeing of Yukon's rural communities.
Na-Cho Nyäk Dun Development Corporation
The Na-Cho Nyäk Dun Development Corporation is the economic development arm of the First Nation of Na-Cho Nyäk Dun. Its goal is to generate wealth for the First Nation and its citizens by investing in business opportunities.
One of the development corporation’s flagship businesses is Mayo Foods Grocery Store. Since 2012, NNDDC has been able to consistently drive down the price of groceries in the community through the store. Mayo Foods is a major employer in Mayo and provides a range of community services.
