The Challenge
The Deisleen Development Corp (DDC) is a federally incorporated not for profit community economic development agency with a mandate to create a positive environment for economic growth for the community of Teslin, Yukon, and surrounding area, and all people living in the Teslin Tlingit traditional territory. Specifically, the DDC’s role includes unearthing new economic development prospects, assisting in business development opportunities, setting up, administering and managing community economic development projects and initiatives, and generating new jobs.
In 2016, the DDC began to explore ways to increase the capacity of the business community to respond to upcoming construction opportunities and infrastructure projects. Construction and bidding capacity in the local contractor community was uneven, with some groups very sophisticated and others not quite as far along with their understanding of the process. DDC wanted to create more of a level playing field for contractors wishing to bid on these opportunities, as well as dispel some myths that appeared to be impeding fair and transparent competition in the area. Participants for the training would come from a wide variety of backgrounds, educational levels and understanding of competitive contracting principles. It was expected that both First Nations and non- First Nations contractors would attend, and the training would have to be face-to-face, partly due to the unreliable internet access in and around the Teslin area.
