About the Awards
The Arctic Indigenous Business Awards recognize more than conventional measures of business success.
The Awards celebrate Indigenous businesses and leaders demonstrating achievement through economic impact, entrepreneurship, leadership, community contribution, innovation, cultural strength, Nation building, and the creation of long-term opportunity.
By bringing together Indigenous businesses, communities, governments, industry, and economic partners from across the three northern territories, AIBA is designed to increase the visibility of Indigenous business success and strengthen connections across the Arctic economy.
2026 Award Categories
Business Excellence
Top Indigenous Business
Recognizes exceptional business performance, growth, and leadership.
Indigenous Entrepreneur
Recognizes outstanding entrepreneurial achievement.
Indigenous Export
Recognizes businesses successfully reaching external markets.
Leadership & Community
Community Builder
Recognizes economic leadership that strengthens communities.
Indigenous Women in Leadership
Recognizes exceptional leadership by Indigenous women.
Lifetime Achievement Award
Recognizes enduring contributions to Indigenous prosperity and economic development.
Innovation & Future Growth
Rising Leader
Recognizes emerging Indigenous leaders demonstrating innovation and future-focused growth.
Indigenous Innovation
Recognizes innovation in products, services, technologies, or business models.
Emerging Business
Recognizes businesses demonstrating exceptional growth potential.
Housing & Community Development
Recognizes leadership and achievement advancing housing, infrastructure, and stronger northern communities.
Nominate
Know an Indigenous business, entrepreneur, leader, or organization making an impact across the North?
Nominations are open to eligible nominees from Yukon, Northwest Territories, and Nunavut.
We encourage nominations that reflect the diversity, strength, innovation, and leadership of Indigenous economies across the Arctic.
Attend the Awards
Join us on Sunday, November 15, 2026, from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Sternwheeler Hotel & Conference Centre in Whitehorse.
Become a Sponsor
Support Indigenous business excellence at the Arctic Indigenous Business Awards on Sunday, November 15, 2026, from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Sternwheeler Hotel & Conference Centre in Whitehorse.
Sponsorship opportunities range from $2,000 to $30,000 and include title and individual award sponsorship, reception and cultural performance support, and contributions to travel, media, AV, catering, and networking.
Contact hello@yfncc.ca for the sponsorship package and current availability.
Download the Arctic Indigenous Business Awards sponsorship package.
