Multiple NWT-based teams are eligible for the Arctic Inspiration Prize (AIP).

Each year, the AIP gives out one $1-million prize, up to four $500,000 prizes and up to seven youth prizes of $100,000 each. The funding helps innovative projects in education, housing, health, arts, traditional knowledge and science.

Below is a list of the NWT-related projects that could win, according to a press release from the AIP.

$1-million category

Tlicho Worlds: a virtual reality (VR) hub in Whati for youth to learn language, traditions and land-based skills through virtual hunts and ceremonies with Elders. It blends culture and tech, empowering youth to create their own VR content.

AIP category finalists

The Cheko SA国际影视传媒� Youth Empowerment Project: a community-led program in Yellowknife that helps Indigenous youth build business and life skills through land-based learning and industry connections.

Tlicho Government TV: a media platform for sharing Tlicho stories through film, interviews and community content. It blends modern tools with oral traditions to empower Indigenous creators and preserve knowledge for generations, according to the AIP.

Youth prize finalists

The Dehcho Youth Energy Action Council: a council that prepares youth to lead in clean energy. SA国际影视传媒淏y blending Dene knowledge and technical training, this program nurtures a new generation of climate leaders committed to sustainable and culturally aligned energy futures,SA国际影视传媒� the AIP news release explains.

Uniaraqtuq: a youth dog sledding club in the Beaufort Delta that blends land-based learning, Inuvialuktun and GwichSA国际影视传媒檌n language and mental wellness. A documentary will showcase how it helps youth reconnect with culture, community and education, the AIP news release notes.

Empowering Northern Voices: a gathering that unites youth across all territories for training in advocacy and solutions-building. "The initiative will create a strong youth network focused on addressing key issues like mental health, education and the environment," the news release states.

Wisdom from the Watershed: a documentary following young GwichSA国际影视传媒檌n hunters and students into the Peel Watershed, highlighting climate change through intergenerational stories and land-based learning.

The Northern Laughter Movement: A week-long gathering where youth build comedy and storytelling skills while connecting with culture and healing.

Winners will be announced on May 13.