Taking Off Together: The Community-Led Transformation of the Nemaska Airport

Project Overview

The Nemaska Airport project transformed a previously private Hydro-Québec airstrip into a public gateway for central Eeyou Istchee. This strategic infrastructure now connects Nemaska and the surrounding region to new opportunities, supporting travel, logistics, and essential services for residents, businesses, and visitors.

CDC acted as the enabler, bringing together partners, structuring a joint venture (Aakutaah Holding Corporation with Nemaska’s Nikaanch Corporation), and ensuring local leadership was front and center. We worked on:

• Building a partnership model that puts Nemaska in control of operations and management.
• Supporting skills transfer and workforce development so the community could run and maintain the airport.
• Facilitating stakeholder engagement to ensure the project reflected Cree values and priorities.

Unlocking New Possibilities

Opening Nemaska Airport to the public unlocks:

• Direct jobs and technical expertise for Nemaska.
• Improved access for health, logistics, and resource sectors.
• A foundation for future investment, tourism, and business growth.
• A model for how community-led infrastructure can drive sustainable, inclusive development across Eeyou Istchee.

“The Nemaska Airport project is proof that when communities are empowered, real transformation happens. CDC’s role is to open doors and help our people gain the skills, resources, and confidence to lead projects that shape our future. This is how we build lasting opportunity in Eeyou Istchee.”

— Clarke Shecapio, President and Chief Executive Officer, Cree Development Corporation