The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) has announced a total investment of $400,275 through its Regional Youth Sporting Events (RYSE) Program for the 2026–2027 funding cycle. The initiative is designed to strengthen youth participation in sports and recreation activities across communities throughout the territory, with a focus on improving access, encouraging healthy lifestyles, and building stronger social connections among young people.
The funding will support 34 approved projects delivered by 29 organizations across all regions of the Northwest Territories, including the North Slave, South Slave, Dehcho, Sahtu, and Beaufort Delta regions. These projects will enable youth to take part in sport competitions, training camps, and skills development programs, particularly in remote and rural communities where access to organized sports can be limited.
According to the government, total applications for the program exceeded $821,000, reflecting strong demand for youth-focused recreation opportunities across the territory. Due to limited funding, not all proposals could be approved, and selections were made based on criteria such as participation impact, accessibility, and alignment with community development goals.
The RYSE Program prioritizes initiatives that increase physical activity, promote healthy living, and improve access to sports for young people across diverse communities. Funding decisions are made through a structured evaluation process to ensure fairness and to maximize community benefit.
Officials emphasized that youth sport participation plays an important role in building healthier, more connected communities across the Northwest Territories. The program continues to support regional collaboration between community governments, schools, and sport organizations to expand opportunities for young people to stay active and engaged.
The GNWT reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining and growing youth recreation programming, ensuring that young residents—especially in smaller and remote communities—have continued access to meaningful sport and development opportunities.
