The Yellowknife Chamber of Commerce was proud to present the 2025 State of the City Address on September 12, 2025. This event brought together business leaders, government officials, and residents to network and hear firsthand from Mayor Ben Hendriksen on the City’s current initiatives and its vision for the future.

Yellowknife Chamber of Commerce President Mark Henry opened the event by reflecting on how the business community is looking ahead at a time of change. He emphasized businesses are always looking at sustainability and highlighted the significant infrastructure projects and growing national interest in the North that are both on the horizon and are creating an excitement for Yellowknife.

Mayor Ben Hendriksen delivered the keynote address, providing an overview of the City’s priorities, challenges, and opportunities. His remarks touched on:

• Emergency Preparedness & Resilience
  • Lessons from the 2023 wildfires have reshaped how the City plans and responds.
  • Investments include a new Manager of Emergency Preparedness, the alert system, and enhanced training.
• Economy & Growth
  • Urgent need to adapt beyond diamonds toward critical minerals and rare earth opportunities.
  • Strong advocacy for the Arctic Security Corridor and Yellowknife’s role as a hub for Canada’s Armed Forces and national security.
  • New destination marketing office launched with NWT Tourism to promote Yellowknife worldwide.
• Housing & Land Development
• Downtown & Business Community
  • Renewed investment in Centre Square Mall and growth of new businesses, many led by new Canadians.
  • Downtown revitalization will be a priority in Budget 2026.
  • Federal Reaching Home program brings $3.5M annually to support frontline services for vulnerable residents.
• Economic Diversification & Infrastructure
  • Recognition of urgency following Ekati mine suspension.
  • Focus on diversifying economy and strengthening partnerships with Indigenous Development Corporations.
  • Calls for modern investment in infrastructure, including Yellowknife Airport services and strengthening the power grid.
• Climate & Environment
  • Commitment to a Climate Action Plan and low-carbon transportation strategies.
  • Reminder that the 2023 wildfire season alone cost governments over $200M, highlighting the economic case for climate action.
• Modernizing City Hall
  • Launch of a new 311 service to simplify communication with City Hall.
  • Organizational review underway to improve efficiency and resident service.

Following the address, attendees had the opportunity to engage directly with Mayor Hendriksen and City Manager Stephen Van Dine during a Q&A session.