Indigenous Leadership Secures Historic Conservation Agreement to Protect Northwest Territories in Canada

“Today, we celebrate a landmark achievement in Indigenous-led conservation with the signing of the Northwest Territories Project Finance for Permanence agreement, "NWT: Our Land for the Future.” This initiative, led by 22 Indigenous governments and organizations with support from the Government of Canada and the Government of the Northwest Territories, protects the land, culture, and way of life for Indigenous communities who have stewarded this region for generations.

Covering up to 38 million hectares (an area larger than twice the size of Washington state), this agreement helps conserve Canada’s iconic boreal forests, wetlands, and habitats that sustain hundreds of species, including caribou, moose, and some of the last remaining wood bison.

This collaboration brings Canada closer to its goal of protecting 30% of its lands and waters by 2030, setting a powerful example of how conservation and reconciliation can work together, grounded in Indigenous leadership and knowledge.

Through partnerships like Enduring Earth, the Bezos Earth Fund is committed to supporting Indigenous-led stewardship across Canada. By securing long-term funding for conservation, the PFP model empowers Indigenous leaders to safeguard their lands and ways of life, creating lasting, sustainable benefits for communities and biodiversity alike. We are honored to stand with Indigenous leaders and partners who are shaping a resilient future for both people and nature.”