Northern Action Plan

The Northern Action Plan 2023‑2028 is a government strategy developed with partners in the northern territory to address economic, social and environmental development issues. It will contribute to the vitality and prosperity of the communities that inhabit it, and thus to the province of Québec as a whole.

The gouvernement du Québec will carry out 45 concrete actions in the short term. In addition to these, the Northern Action Plan includes 30 actions initiated before 2023. All these actions will ensure tangible benefits north of the 49^th parallel.

The Société du Plan Nord coordinates the deployment of the Northern Action Plan. Nearly 25 departments and agencies are participating in its implementation in partnership with stakeholders in the northern territory.

The plan calls for investments of over 2.57 billion dollars, including 1,665.3 million dollars from the gouvernement du Québec over a five‑year period.

The Northern Action Plan is structured around four key directions that guide its various actions. They are listed below, with some examples of actions:

Key direction 1: Increase connectivity to the territory

Pursue the installation of telecommunications infrastructure and optimize logistics and transportation throughout the northern territory:

• Finalize deployment of high‑speed Internet in Nunavik
• Continue deployment of cell phone service in Eeyou Istchee and James Bay
• Continue upgrading roads between Schefferville and Kawawachikamach

Key direction 2: Build on northern economic strengths

Bolster the economic development of Québec’s northern territory by relying on entrepreneurship, economic diversification, local spinoffs from major projects and corporate social responsibility:

• Set up an incubator‑accelerator for northern entrepreneurs to support the start‑up, expansion and internationalization of SMEs and industries
• Pursue the development of distinctive tourism products
• Support the implementation of projects for training, international recruitment, workforce retention and qualification

Key direction 3: Stimulate community vitality

Support communities in their efforts to attract a variety of players ready to invest, stay and live there:

• Promote exchanges and the emergence of arts and culture
• Implement measures to mitigate the risks associated with northern hazards
• Promote access to community services adapted to the realities of First Nations and Inuit families
• Initiate implementation of the recommendations of the Assembly of Partners' Opinion on Housing

Key direction 4: Preserve a unique environment

Implement innovative models that reconcile the economic and social benefits of development with the conservation of the northern environment:

• Optimize the management of residual materials in the North
• Develop the Nibiischii National Park project
• Detect and anticipate the effects of climate change on northern biodiversity
• Stimulate initiatives in the circular economy sector

In addition to the 45 actions, the gouvernement du Québec offers financial assistance to actively contribute to the sustainable development of the northern territory.