Communications
Communicating KIA’s role through Community Liaison Officers and other informative communications.
Economic Development & Training
How we promote economic development in the region including training and career services.
Finance
Financial transparency and planning for the organization.
Lands, Environment & Resources
Support for development and preservation of Kitikmeot’s natural spaces.
Social & Cultural Development
We offer financial assistance in the form of grants, scholarships, and more.
Communications
Communicating KIA’s role through Community Liaison Officers and other informative communications.
Economic Development & Training
How we promote economic development in the region including training and career services.
Finance
Financial transparency and planning for the organization.
Lands, Environment & Resources
Support for development and preservation of Kitikmeot’s natural spaces.
Social & Cultural Development
We offer financial assistance in the form of grants, scholarships, and more.
The Kitikmeot Inuit Association (KIA) is a Designated Inuit Organization (DIO) under the Nunavut Agreement. The KIA manages the lands in trust for Kitikmeot Inuit, supporting traditional and cultural values and providing economic and social benefits to Kitikmeot Inuit. A not-for-profit designated Inuit organization with community-elected leadership, the KIA represents the Inuit people of the Kitikmeot Region of Nunavut.
Established in 1976 when the Nunavut Agreement was given Royal Assent, the Kitikmeot Inuit Association is an incorporated society designated as an Inuit Birthright Organization. The Kitikmeot Inuit Association is one of the three Regional Inuit Associations, along with the Qikiqtani Inuit Association, and the Kivalliq Inuit Association that advocate for regional interests in Nunavut.
KIA has a democratically elected board and represents all Inuit beneficiaries of the Kitikmeot Region. The communities of the region include Cambridge Bay, Kugluktuk, Gjoa Haven, Kugaaruk, and Taloyoak. As of 2020, there were over 6500 Kitikmeot Inuit members, of which 5000 are of voting age.
President’s Message: December 2025
On behalf of the KIA Board of Directors, Staff, and myself I would like to wish everyone a happy and safe holiday season. I would also like to take this chance to let you know that all KIA Offices will be closed from the end-of-day December 16 until the morning of January 5, 2026.
Looking back on this year, I would have to say that there were successes and things that the KIA should be proud of accomplishing. Unfortunately, this year was also marked by the loss of two great men who were members of the KIA family; Robert (Bobby) Greenley (President) and Attima Hadlari (Vice President).
It is losses like these that makes spending time with those we love even more important and I sincerely wish that you all take the time to let those in your life know how important they are to you – over the holidays as well as throughout the rest of the year.
This year saw the opening of the B2Gold Goose Gold Mine. The KIA held Introduction to the Mining Industry Courses designed to position Kitikmeot Inuit for careers in the mining industry (this course is being offered in two more communities this coming January). I was immensely proud to see ten graduates from the Introduction Course successfully complete an Underground Mining Training Program at Aurora College which was made possible with funding from Agnico Eagle and B2Gold Nunavut. Programs like this are at the heart of what the KIA does to ensure that any economic activity on our land benefits Kitikmeot Inuit with real job opportunities.
This commitment was also seen in the Social and Cultural Programs we offered this past year and the addition of several key staff members to that department (more to come on this in the New Year). We are committed to continue programming that protects, promotes, and preserves Inuit language and culture at the community level.
This past year also saw us offer community-based workshops that provide the opportunity for Kitikmeot Inuit to improve their employability and sharpen their job searching abilities and improve their resume and cover letter writing skills.
In 2026, based on our current Strategic Plan, the KIA will be recruiting and hiring more staff to better position us to represent the interests of the Kitikmeot, our land and the people who call this great region home.
I am extremely proud to be President of the KIA as well as of what the KIA does every day to support the Kitikmeot.
I look forward to next year and communicating with you on a more regular basis.
In closing, I wish everyone a good holiday season and ask you to appreciate those around you and to take a moment or thought to honor those we have lost. Whether staying home or travelling elsewhere, remember those who have less and may need a kind word or gesture to make their holidays more enjoyable.
James Eetoolook President, Kitikmeot Inuit Association
President, Kitikmeot Inuit Association
P: (867) 983-2458 ext. 1001
KIA relies on a diverse range of funding sources to sustain its mission and drive positive change in the Kitikmeot Region. Our financial foundation is built upon a combination of government grants, private sector partnerships, philanthropic donations, and community contributions. These collaborative efforts ensure a stable and robust funding base that allows us to execute our programs and initiatives effectively.
The funding acquired by KIA is strategically allocated to support a wide array of programs and initiatives that align with our mission and community needs. We prioritize transparency and accountability in the allocation of resources, ensuring that every dollar invested serves a purpose. Our programs encompass cultural preservation, community engagement, sustainability initiatives, economic development, and educational opportunities.
The KIA is the sole shareholder of Kitikmeot Corporation (KC) a 100% Inuit-owned company committed to creating economic activities that contribute to the overall wealth and wellbeing of the Kitikmeot Region. KC are the proud owners and joint venture partners for over 25 companies that participate in a wide range of key sectors within Canada’s northern economy. KIA is directly responsible for overseeing profitable development in the Kitikmeot Region and ensuring that all economic activities benefit the region and its people. KIA provides insight, resources, accessibility, advocacy, and governance to support KC in its activities.
Comprised of passionate professionals across various fields, our team brings a wealth of expertise to support the organization's vision and mandate. From community outreach specialists to administrative professionals, each team member plays a crucial role in fostering cultural preservation, educational opportunities and overall community well-being.
We strive to uplift the people and communities of Kitikmeot. If you need support or want more information about KIA and our programs, please contact us!
30 Mitik Street