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Government of Canada Celebrates Launch of the $5-Billion Indigenous Loan Guarantee Program

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NORTH VANCOUVER, BC, Feb. 21, 2025 /CNW/ – Indigenous Peoples, communities and businesses are building a more sustainable and resilient natural resource sector in Canada. The Government of Canada is supporting Indigenous participation in the natural resource economy, helping to eliminate historic barriers and open doors for Indigenous groups to share in the economic benefits of resource and energy development.

Today, the Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, celebrated the launch of the $5-billion Indigenous Loan Guarantee Program while announcing an additional $6.2-million investment in seven Indigenous-led energy and forestry projects in British Columbia through the Indigenous Natural Resource Partnerships (INRP) program.

The Canada Indigenous Loan Guarantee Corporation was launched in December and is open for business, supporting Indigenous groups in benefiting from the economic opportunities of natural resource development. It will provide up to $5 billion in Indigenous loan guarantees to help unlock access to the capital needed for Indigenous groups to pursue ownership in natural resource and energy projects.

Loan guarantees work by providing a guarantee that the debt will be repaid by the guarantor (the federal government) should the borrower be unable to repay, which lowers the interest rate on the loan. Loan guarantees will help enable Indigenous communities and businesses to access private financing and to become meaningful equity partners and owners of natural resource and energy projects.

Indigenous Peoples in Canada are among some of the most innovative leaders in the natural resources sector. The Government of Canada has been promoting the economic participation of First Nations, Métis and Inuit Peoples for years by providing tangible support for Indigenous-led projects. Minister Wilkinson took the opportunity today to also announce additional INRP funding for projects in B.C.

The INRP program is helping Indigenous communities across Canada to secure economic opportunities from projects and become equal partners in the resource economy. With the investments made today, for example, Fort Nelson First Nation in Northern B.C., is developing the Tu Deh-Kah (TDK) project, a 100-percent Indigenous-owned project that will be the first geothermal facility in the province and among the first in Canada. It will power 10,000 homes and create economic opportunity for the community.

There is much more work ahead to ensure that Indigenous Peoples will be equal partners in the development of energy and natural resources in Canada, and the Government of Canada remains committed to doing that work. Through advancing meaningful partnerships with Indigenous groups and enabling the development of innovative natural resource projects, together we are building good projects that will power and supply our communities and produce economic benefits for generations to come.

Quotes

“Today, as we celebrate the launch of the Indigenous Loan Guarantee Program, I want to thank the many Indigenous groups, businesses and organizations that have advocated for this over many years. It is thanks to their advocacy that Indigenous communities will have greater opportunities to build and share in the economic benefits of natural resource and energy development in their own ways and on their own terms. This will create jobs, drive economic growth and wealth, and have lasting impacts for the generations to come.”

The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson
Minister of Energy and Natural Resources

“INRP funding has increased the fluency of our members in climate change causes, impacts and mitigation and adaptation strategies. As a result, FNCI is advancing Indigenous natural resource development opportunities and building the decarbonized economy of the future. This includes enabling the pursuit of equity ownership in renewable energy infrastructure in northwest B.C.; the development of hydrogen and solid carbon manufacturing in the Port of Prince Rupert; and shaping the viability of Indigenous nature-based solutions projects from the Montney Play to the northwest coast. FNCI’s partnership with Columbia University is an applied research project intended to activate specific decarbonization opportunities in Asian markets that result in measurable and transparent emission reduction benefits and agreements.”

Chief Crystal Smith
First Nations Climate Initiative, Nisga’a, Haisla, Metlakatla, Halfway River First Nations

“The TDK Geothermal Energy Project is a vital step toward energy security and reliability in northeastern BC. Showcasing Indigenous leadership in Canada’s geothermal industry, the project is 100-percent owned through Fort Nelson First Nation’s economic development arm, Deh Tai LP. We are progressing in project design, permitting, consultation and BC Hydro negotiations. We are proud to lead the way in advancing sustainable, renewable energy solutions for our people and the broader economy.”

Jim Hodgson
CEO, Deh Tai Limited

“For generations, Indigenous people have understood how to care for these landscapes, but that knowledge was pushed aside. Now, as we face growing wildfire risks, we’re seeing a shift back to the practices that have always worked. This funding allows WLFN to lead the way — training our people, reducing fuel loads and restoring balance to the land. It’s a step forward, and there’s still more work to do to have a resilient land base.”

John Walker
Stewardship Forester, Williams Lake First Nation

Quick Facts

The Canada Indigenous Loan Guarantee Corporation is a subsidiary of the Canada Development Investment Corporation (CDEV) and was officially launched in the 2024 Fall Economic Statement.The number of major natural resource and energy projects with potential for Indigenous equity participation is anticipated to grow significantly, with the First Nations Major Projects Coalition’s research expecting this potential to reach $525 billion in capital investment over the next ten years.Natural Resources Canada will support eligibility screening and deliver funding to help Indigenous groups obtain advisory services so they can make informed decisions on equity ownership opportunities in natural resource and energy projects.Historically, Indigenous Peoples have been excluded from Canada’s natural resources sector. For example, due to the Indian Act, Indigenous communities have fewer options for securing capital or leveraging existing assets as collateral, leading to increased borrowing rates that create a barrier to equity investment in natural resource and energy projects.

Associated Links

Backgrounder: Project Funding DetailsIndigenous Natural Resource Partnerships ProgramThe Canada Indigenous Loan Guarantee CorporationFinance Canada Backgrounder: Launching the Canada Indigenous Loan Guarantee CorporationFirst Nations Climate Initiative

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ST Engineering iDirect and MBSat Partner to Build Next-Generation Sovereign Connectivity Services Across Oman and the Middle East

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October 25, 2026

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Intuition ground system selected to support MBSat’s planned 2027 service launch, enabling accelerated deployment, dynamic resource management and scalable service growth

HERNDON, Va., Oct. 25, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — ST Engineering iDirect today announced a strategic partnership with Mohammed Al Barwani Satellite Company (MBSat), part of Mohammed Al Barwani Group, to provide the ground system technology foundation for MBSat’s next-generation satellite gateway and network operations across Oman and the wider Middle East region. Intuition will provide a flexible, software-defined foundation to support sovereign connectivity services, enabling efficient service deployment, dynamic resource management and scalable network operations.

Intuition will deliver a turnkey ground segment solution that accelerates deployment, simplifies operations and gives MBSat the flexibility to scale services as demand grows. The software-defined platform enables dynamic resource management, service automation and seamless integration with existing and future operational systems. The solution also includes Ka-band gateway infrastructure, service provisioning and management capabilities, open API integration frameworks, training and full-lifecycle support. Together, these capabilities will help MBSat launch and operate services efficiently while adapting to evolving market requirements.

The network will leverage capacity from MB Sat-1, a sovereign MicroGEO satellite, with planned service launch in 2027, to support flexible, scalable connectivity services across the region.

The partnership reflects growing investment in sovereign communications infrastructure across the Middle East as operators seek greater control over service delivery, network expansion and long-term technology evolution.

“This partnership represents an important milestone in our efforts to build an advanced satellite communications platform in Oman and the region,” said Ammar Al Rawahi, General Manager, MBSat. “Through our collaboration with ST Engineering iDirect, we are establishing the technical infrastructure required to launch services efficiently, respond to evolving customer needs and expand into new markets, supporting the sustainable long-term growth of our business.”

“We are providing MBSat with a flexible, software-defined ground platform that integrates with its existing operational environment,” said Sridhar Kuppanna, Chief Executive Officer, ST Engineering iDirect. “This enables more efficient service deployment and operations today, with the flexibility to scale, introduce new capabilities and evolve as requirements change.”

About ST Engineering iDirect

ST Engineering iDirect, a subsidiary of ST Engineering, is a global leader in satellite communications, providing technology and solutions that enable its customers to expand their business, differentiate their services and optimize their networks. Through its portfolio of ground infrastructure, intelligent networking and advanced satellite communications solutions, the company supports operators, service providers, governments and enterprises worldwide.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/st-engineering-idirect-and-mbsat-partner-to-build-next-generation-sovereign-connectivity-services-across-oman-and-the-middle-east-302918467.html

SOURCE ST Engineering iDirect

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ST Engineering iDirect and MBSat Partner to Build Next-Generation Sovereign Connectivity Services Across Oman and the Middle East

Published

2 hours ago

on

October 25, 2026

By

Intuition ground system selected to support MBSat’s planned 2027 service launch, enabling accelerated deployment, dynamic resource management and scalable service growth

HERNDON, Va., Oct. 25, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — ST Engineering iDirect today announced a strategic partnership with Mohammed Al Barwani Satellite Company (MBSat), part of Mohammed Al Barwani Group, to provide the ground system technology foundation for MBSat’s next-generation satellite gateway and network operations across Oman and the wider Middle East region. Intuition will provide a flexible, software-defined foundation to support sovereign connectivity services, enabling efficient service deployment, dynamic resource management and scalable network operations.

Intuition will deliver a turnkey ground segment solution that accelerates deployment, simplifies operations and gives MBSat the flexibility to scale services as demand grows. The software-defined platform enables dynamic resource management, service automation and seamless integration with existing and future operational systems. The solution also includes Ka-band gateway infrastructure, service provisioning and management capabilities, open API integration frameworks, training and full-lifecycle support. Together, these capabilities will help MBSat launch and operate services efficiently while adapting to evolving market requirements.

The network will leverage capacity from MB Sat-1, a sovereign MicroGEO satellite, with planned service launch in 2027, to support flexible, scalable connectivity services across the region.

The partnership reflects growing investment in sovereign communications infrastructure across the Middle East as operators seek greater control over service delivery, network expansion and long-term technology evolution.

“This partnership represents an important milestone in our efforts to build an advanced satellite communications platform in Oman and the region,” said Ammar Al Rawahi, General Manager, MBSat. “Through our collaboration with ST Engineering iDirect, we are establishing the technical infrastructure required to launch services efficiently, respond to evolving customer needs and expand into new markets, supporting the sustainable long-term growth of our business.”

“We are providing MBSat with a flexible, software-defined ground platform that integrates with its existing operational environment,” said Sridhar Kuppanna, Chief Executive Officer, ST Engineering iDirect. “This enables more efficient service deployment and operations today, with the flexibility to scale, introduce new capabilities and evolve as requirements change.”

About ST Engineering iDirect

ST Engineering iDirect, a subsidiary of ST Engineering, is a global leader in satellite communications, providing technology and solutions that enable its customers to expand their business, differentiate their services and optimize their networks. Through its portfolio of ground infrastructure, intelligent networking and advanced satellite communications solutions, the company supports operators, service providers, governments and enterprises worldwide.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/st-engineering-idirect-and-mbsat-partner-to-build-next-generation-sovereign-connectivity-services-across-oman-and-the-middle-east-302918467.html

SOURCE ST Engineering iDirect

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Global Security & Technology Summit Unveils Month-Long Program of Activities Ahead of December Event

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October 24, 2026

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RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, Oct. 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Organizing Committee of the Global Security & Technology Summit (GSTS) held an introductory session today at the Ministry of Interior’s headquarters in Riyadh, bringing together representatives from the government, private, and nonprofit sectors to introduce the program of activities leading up to the summit. The upcoming summit will be held in Riyadh under the patronage of HRH Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, under the supervision of HRH Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Minister of Interior, and organized by the Ministry of Interior in cooperation with Tuwaiq Academy.

During the session, the Organizing Committee presented the comprehensive GSTS program, comprising three key components: GSTS Month, running from November 1 to 30, 2026; the Global Security & Innovation Fair (SAIF), taking place from November 24 to 26, 2026; and the main Summit, scheduled for December 18 to 20, 2026, in Riyadh. Together, these events form an integrated program designed to advance security and technology innovation, strengthen national capabilities, and foster international cooperation.

GSTS Month will feature working groups, boot camps, training programs, knowledge-sharing sessions, and technical workshops across Saudi Arabia’s 13 administrative regions, delivered both in person and remotely in collaboration with specialized entities. The month-long program aims to develop national capabilities, identify emerging talent, enrich knowledge-sharing opportunities, and equip professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to develop innovative solutions to future security and technology challenges.

The main Summit will bring together global leaders, decision-makers, experts, and innovators to explore the future of security and technology, promote the integration of advanced technologies within the security sector, strengthen national capabilities, support innovation, and foster international cooperation, further positioning the Kingdom as a global hub for security and technology.

Showcasing the latest technological breakthroughs and security solutions, the summit will bring together government entities, private sector organizations, academic institutions, and research centers to facilitate knowledge exchange and collaboration across key fields, including cybersecurity, artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), smart security solutions, emerging technologies, and crisis management. The program will also feature main sessions, specialized discussions, and interactive exhibitions. Registration is available at gsts.sa.

Advisor to HRH the Minister of Interior and Chairman of the GSTS Organizing Committee, Ahmed Altowayan, stated that the summit builds on Saudi Arabia’s efforts to establish an advanced security and technology ecosystem focused on knowledge and innovation, keeping pace with rapid developments and future challenges.

Mr. Altowayan noted that the summit is a global platform for strengthening cooperation and exchanging expertise, anticipating future developments in security and technology, and developing strategic partnerships and innovative solutions that enhance the efficiency and readiness of security systems.

Vice Chairman of the GSTS Organizing Committee, Eng. Abdulaziz Alhammadi, said that the summit will offer a range of integrated programs and activities focused on enhancing national skills, encouraging innovation, and supporting international cooperation.

He added that GSTS Month will help build national capabilities, discover talent, and develop skills, with SAIF providing a platform for innovators and researchers from around the world to showcase leading technological solutions, while the main Summit will bring together leaders and experts to discuss the future of security and technology and explore new strategic partnership opportunities.

SAIF will take place at the Riyadh International Convention & Exhibition Center, bringing together innovators, researchers, technology talents, and industry experts from around the world to showcase promising innovations and projects across 14 fields of technology and innovation. The fair will provide opportunities to engage with project owners, including students, graduates, and entrepreneurs, and explore the different stages of innovation development through interactive zones, panel discussions on emerging security and innovation trends, and knowledge-sharing workshops led by specialists. Visitor registration is open to participants from within and outside the Kingdom through saifair.sa.

The introductory session also featured contributions from representatives of government, private, and nonprofit sector entities, alongside members of the media. Discussions focused on developing national capabilities in security and technology, strengthening students’ technical expertise, translating scientific research into practical solutions, and supporting Saudi companies in developing security and technology solutions and advancing digital transformation.

Organized by the Ministry of Interior in cooperation with Tuwaiq Academy, GSTS is produced by Tahaluf, with the Ministry of Education serving as Strategic Scientific Partner, Tahakom as Founding Partner, and Elm as Principal Partner.

Registration for participants from within and outside the Kingdom is available at gsts.sa.

Click here to view the media kit. 

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/global-security–technology-summit-unveils-month-long-program-of-activities-ahead-of-december-event-302918695.html

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