Over $90,000 in CanNor funding benefits Yukon fur industry

WHITEHORSE, Aug. 2, 2018 /CNW/ - Yukon's fur trappers and artisans have a long tradition of producing some of the finest wild fur in the world. Increasing the profitability of the fur sector through sustainable harvesting strengthens the local economy. That is why the Government of Canada, through the Northern Aboriginal Economic Opportunities Program (NAEOP), has invested $90,718 to develop a territorial fur strategy, increase awareness of the industry, and support training initiatives.

The announcement was made today by Larry Bagnell, Member of Parliament (Yukon) on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for CanNor.

The Yukon Trappers Association and the North Yukon Renewable Resource Council also contributed $96,656 to this innovative project that addresses a shared interest in developing the local fur industry and increasing profits for the people involved. In addition to the Yukon Fur Strategy activities, the Government of Yukon contributed over $65,000 towards an educational event, "unFURled", that included workshops and a fur auction.

Quotes

"Through this investment, there will be an increased awareness of the quality of Yukon's fur. Local fur trappers and artisans will benefit from direct access to buyers. The Government of Canada is proud to support innovative projects that foster economic development and support the wellbeing of communities in the North."

Larry Bagnell
Member of Parliament for Yukon

"Yukon is known for harvesting world class furs. Having a strategy in place helps us to look to the past to ensure future success. This project will establish new business opportunities for trappers and artisans and promote healthy occupation of the land."

Brandon Kyikavichik

Co-Chair, North Yukon Renewable Resources Council

Quick Facts

• The North Yukon Renewable Resource Council has partnered with the Yukon Trappers Association and is working with fur trappers and artisans from across the territory.
• This proposal includes the development of a territory-wide fur strategy and
• support for grassroots fur sewing projects to help build skills.
• The fur strategy will include the development of a strategic plan focused on building an efficient supply chain between trappers, artisans and the territorial market.
• In March 2018, more than $50,000 of fur pelts and products were sold at the "unFURled" event in Whitehorse, with the proceeds going directly to trappers and artisans.
• In June 2018, the Yukon Fur Real project won the 4th annual Yukon Innovation Prize, worth $70,000.

Stay Connected

Follow the ISED on Twitter: @ISED_CA

For more information about CanNor, visit cannor.gc.ca

SOURCE Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency (CanNor)