NSMTC and WNNB Release Indigenous SMR Supply Chain Gap Analysis

April 30, 2025

The North Shore Mi’kmaq Tribal Council (NSMTC) and the Wolastoqey Nation in New Brunswick (WNNB) have published the New Brunswick Small Modular (SMR) Indigenous Supply Chain Overview and Gap Analysis, a report that identifies key gaps and opportunities for Indigenous participation in the province’s emerging small modular reactor (SMR) supply chain. Funded by Natural Resources Canada (NRCan), the study marks an important step in strengthening Indigenous inclusion in the energy sector.

This phase of the project included a literature review, case studies, and engagement across industry, government, utilities, and Indigenous and non-Indigenous businesses. The goal was to better understand current challenges and highlight opportunities for Indigenous involvement in the SMR supply chain.

Key barriers identified in the report include:

  • Limited market certainty
  • Lack of nuclear-qualified Indigenous businesses
  • Inaccessible procurement processes
  • Gaps in capacity-building supports

In response to these barriers, the report outlines five priority areas to support a stronger Indigenous supply chain: 

  • Relationship-building
  • Training and education
  • Financial participation
  • Business development supports
  • Improved procurement practices.

These findings will inform the next phase of NSMTC and WNNB’s Growing the Indigenous Supply Chain Supporting SMR Development and Deployment in New Brunswick program. Future phases of the project will study collaborations with industry, connecting Indigenous businesses to opportunities, addressing systemic barriers.

Read the full report: https://nsmtc.ca/smr-indigenous-supply-chain/
Note: You will be required to submit your email address to view the report.

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