The History of the DDC

Denendeh Development Corporation (DDC) was created in 1982 to strengthen economic self-reliance. Based on common Dene values of sharing and unity, DDC’s initial investment was in a partnership with Esso Resources and the NWT Métis Development Corporation to own and operate two service rigs in the Norman Wells area.

Over time DDC bought out both partners and became the 100% owner of Shehtah Drilling which had been expanded to include two deep drill rigs and Arctic work camps in addition to the two service rigs.

In the 1990s DDC began to expand its interests and investments and by 2000 the corporation had business interests in oil and gas services, utilities, communications, real estate development and arts marketing.

In order to separate profit-focused business investments from other activities Denendeh Investments Inc. (DII) was created and in 2007 ownership of these investments was transferred to DII.

Today DDC operates Arrowmakers Traditional Fine Arts Gallery and manages DDC’s participation in the NWT Métis-Dene Development Fund.

DDC also organizes the annual NWT Aboriginal Business Conference in partnership with corporate sponsors.