The Ready4SMR program is an initiative spearheaded by FNPA in partnership with OCNI and SIMSA to prepare Indigenous and non-Indigenous businesses in Saskatchewan to participate in the upcoming Small Modular Reactor (SMR) supply chain. This program is crucial for ensuring that Indigenous communities are active participants in the economic opportunities presented by this new wave of nuclear technology.

Canada’s SMR Action Plan: The Canadian government has identified SMRs as a key component of its strategy to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. Saskatchewan, with its rich uranium resources and existing nuclear expertise, is poised to be a leader in SMR development and deployment.

Indigenous Inclusion: Recognizing the importance of Indigenous participation in the SMR industry, FNPA, OCNI and SIMSA launched the Ready4SMR program. This initiative aims to equip Indigenous businesses with the necessary skills, knowledge, and certifications to become active players in the SMR supply chain.

Two-Phased Approach: The program adopts a two-phased approach:

Phase 1: Focuses on assessing the capabilities of Indigenous businesses and identifying gaps in their readiness for the nuclear sector.

Phase 2: Provides training, mentorship, and support to address these gaps and enable businesses to meet the stringent requirements of the nuclear industry.

Key Goals of Ready4SMR:

Economic Development: Create economic opportunities for Indigenous communities by enabling their businesses to secure contracts in the SMR supply chain.
Capacity Building: Enhance the capacity of Indigenous businesses by providing training and resources to meet the specific needs of the nuclear industry.
Safety Culture: Foster a strong safety culture among participating businesses, ensuring they adhere to the highest standards of nuclear safety and quality.
Indigenous Ownership: Promote Indigenous ownership and control over SMR projects, ensuring that communities benefit directly from these developments.

Significance of Ready4SMR:

Empowerment: The program empowers Indigenous communities to take an active role in shaping the future of energy in Canada.
Reconciliation: It contributes to reconciliation efforts by recognizing and supporting the rights of Indigenous peoples to participate in economic development opportunities.
Sustainability: By promoting the safe and responsible use of nuclear energy, the program supports Canada’s transition to a clean energy future.

This project is funded by CIC and PrairiesCan.