At CANSEC 2025, Des Nedhe Group and SaskTel announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), establishing a relationship focused on building secure, scalable, and Indigenous-led digital infrastructure solutions that support both national security and long-term economic growth.
Under the agreement, Des Nedhe Group will lead market engagement for SaskTel's secure data storage services with the Department of National Defence and its supply chain. This includes joint efforts to secure public funding and deliver co-branded commercial services, all anchored in principles of Indigenous data sovereignty and economic development. Datsa, Des Nedhe Group's technology subsidiary, will expand research and development initiatives regarding cybersecurity and data analytics.
CANSEC 2025 | Des Nedhe Group, SaskTel Launch Infrastructure Collaboration
'We're proud to partner with SaskTel'a leading Canadian Crown Corporation that has demonstrated a consistent commitment to Indigenous engagement,' said Sean Willy, President & CEO of Des Nedhe Group. 'This is a powerful example of economic reconciliation in action. With SaskTel's technological infrastructure and our trusted relationships, we're creating a pathway for inclusive, secure, and future-ready solutions.'
'We are thrilled to embark on this collaboration with the Des Nedhe Group,' said Charlene Gavel, SaskTel President and CEO. 'It is a testament to our shared commitment to innovation, security, and reconciliation. By combining our strengths and resources, we aim to develop cutting-edge digital infrastructure solutions that will lead to sustained economic prosperity and growth.'
The collaboration follows the recent launch of DNGD, a dedicated platform designed to serve Canada's defence industry by leveraging Des Nedhe's national internal network of 20+ Indigenous-owned businesses. DNGD provides a 'one-stop shop' offering to meet the urgent demands of an evolving geopolitical climate, at a time when defence spending and Indigenous inclusion are rising national priorities.
'Des Nedhe Group Defence (DNGD) is committed to bridging the gap between military, government, industry, and Indigenous stakeholders'by creating long-term, value-added partnerships and ultimately doing what's right for Canada,' added Grant Oliver, Vice President, Operations for DNGD. 'This MOU marks a clear step forward in delivering targeted, high-value services to the defence sector, while aligning with national policy on Indigenous inclusion.'
Des Nedhe and SaskTel have already begun identifying and pursuing early commercial opportunities under this agreement.
