Local Innovations

Preparation

• Familiarize yourself with local innovations from the regions your participants come from. Prepare two to three examples from each region to share with the participants.

• Compile a list of suggested sources for participants to conduct their research, including local news outlets, websites, government reports, and community organization resources.

• Find a news article or recent example to share with participants to illustrate the concept of an innovation.

• For in person cohorts, ensure participants know in advance they need to come to the session with a device that allows them to do research; or provide access to laptops or tablets during the session itself. 

Technology Considerations

• Virtual Implementation: Ensure participants have reliable internet access and provide guidance on using search engines, websites, and other online resources for research purposes. Utilize video conferencing platforms for presentations and discussions.

• In-Person Implementation: Provide access to computers with internet connectivity or direct participants to local libraries or community centers with internet access. Alternatively, participants can conduct research using printed materials and local resources.

Additional Context

It is crucial to emphasize the importance of respecting and acknowledging the work of local innovators and the communities involved. Encourage participants to approach the research process with recognition of the contributions and knowledge of Indigenous communities in particular.

Tips for Localization

• Encourage participants to explore local resources such as regional newspapers, community organization websites, and local government initiatives for information on local innovations.

• Adapt the examples provided to showcase innovations specific to the participants' community or region (see below)

• Keep in mind that innovations don’t have to be inventions. They can be local community groups and organizations that are solving problems in community and meeting needs through unique programming and offerings.

• Consider inviting guest speakers or experts who can share insights on local innovations and their impact, or who themselves are local innovators. Facilitate a session to tap into their use of an entrepreneurial mindset to drive their innovation forward.

Examples from Yukon:

• Klondike Gold Rush Stove: This compact stove was developed by the Canadian government to provide warmth and cooking facilities to the prospectors who came to the Yukon during the Klondike Gold Rush.

• Skookum Jim's Cribbing Boots: These boots were invented by Skookum Jim, a member of the Tagish First Nation, to help miners navigate the difficult terrain of the Yukon during the Gold Rush.

• Cold Climate Innovation: The Yukon has a vibrant innovation community, with several companies and organizations developing new products and technologies specifically designed for cold weather environments, such as solar-powered heaters and insulated clothing.

• The Sour Toe Cocktail in Dawson City

Examples from NWT:

• Toboggans: The toboggan is another fascinating invention from the Inuit, Innu and Cree. Originally created to assist hunters in transporting furs and meat across snow and ice, toboggans now provide immense pleasure to countless children across the globe.

• Technology Advancements: Innovative solutions for renewable energy in remote communities or technology-driven advancements in mining practices.

• The Arctic Winter Games: Founded in 1970 in Yellowknife, the aim was to provide a forum where athletes from the circumpolar North could compete on their own terms, on their own turf.

• Mooseskin Boats

• https://www.pwnhc.ca/item/mooseskin-boat/

• https://www.nfb.ca/film/last_mooseskin_boat/

• https://paddlingmag.com/stories/people/traditional-mooseskin-boat-nahanni/

Examples from Nunavut:

• Snow Goggles: Inuit developed bone, antler and ivory goggles to prevent blinding snow glare while they were out on the snow-covered landscapes of the Arctic circle. .

• Qajaq: The qajaq was first invented by the Inuit and its English name "kayak" comes from the Inuktitut word "qajaq".

• Toboggans: The toboggan is another fascinating invention from the Inuit, Innu and Cree. Originally created to assist hunters in transporting furs and meat across snow and ice, toboggans now provide immense pleasure to countless children across the globe.

• Ulu: The ulu is a great example of Inuit innovation. It has many diverse uses and applications, from skinning and cleaning skins to food preparation.

• Inuit Tattoo Revitalization Project: It aims to reclaim and revitalize this cultural tradition by documenting traditional tattoo designs, supporting tattoo artists, and promoting awareness and appreciation of Inuit tattooing among Inuit communities and the broader public. Through this project, the rich cultural heritage and significance of Inuit tattooing are honored and preserved for future generations.

• Harpoons

• Snowshoes

• Inukshuks-used as navigational aids

• Amauti-hood on parka to carry babies

• Igloos

• Kakivak-fishing spear

Circumpolar/Northern/Indigenous Innovations:

• Kayak and Canoe aka Qajaq and Kenu

• https://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/kayak

• https://www.canoeicf.com/history

• https://ocean.si.edu/human-connections/history-cultures/kayaks-origin-story

• https://www.frontenacoutfitters.com/blogs/tutorials/kayak-history-and-evolution

• https://www.coastmountainexpeditions.com/kayaking-information/history-of-the-kayak/

• https://www.hbcheritage.ca/things/technology/the-canoe

• https://www.nwtrpa.org/post/canoe-a-symbol-of-resilience-resurgence-and-nationhood

Debrief Questions

Provide a set of thought-provoking questions to guide a reflective discussion or debriefing session after the completion of the activity, designed to encourage participants to share their insights, experiences, and key takeaways from the module.

1. Which local innovation stood out to you the most, and why? How does it tackle a specific problem or fulfill a need in your community?

2. Looking at these local innovations, how do they contribute to your community’s growth and well-being? What potential do you see for improving or expanding these initiatives?

3. How can we use these local innovations as inspiration to solve problems or create new ideas in our own lives or future entrepreneurial endeavors?

4. Describe the importance of recognizing and celebrating local innovations. How does this contribute to community pride, growth, and resilience?

5. Do you have any personal experiences with local innovations? How have they impacted your life or the lives of those around you?