SaskTel and Des Nedhe Group announced Wednesday the recent signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to develop secure, scalable, indigenous-led digital infrastructure solutions that support national security and long-term economic growth.
The announcement was made at CANSEC 2025, the Canadian Association of Defence and Security Industries (CADSI)’s annual event, being held May 28-29 at the EY Centre in Ottawa.
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, according to a press release. The partnership includes joint efforts to secure public funding and deliver co-branded commercial services, anchored in principles of indigenous data sovereignty and economic development, the release said. Datsa, Des Nedhe Group’s technology subsidiary, will expand its research and development initiatives regarding cybersecurity and data analytics, reinforcing the partnership’s innovation-driven approach, the release added.
“We are thrilled to embark on this collaboration with the Des Nedhe Group,” said Charlene Gavel, president and CEO of SaskTel, in the press release. “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.”
“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 and 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.”
The collaboration follows the recent launch of Des Nedhe Group Defence (DNGD), a dedicated platform designed to serve Canada’s defence industry by leveraging Des Nedhe’s national internal network of more than 20 indigenous-owned businesses. DNGD aims to provide a “one-stop shop” offering to meet the urgent demands of an evolving geopolitical climate, at a time when both defence spending and indigenous inclusion are rising priorities in Canada.
“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,” said Grant Oliver, vice president of 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.”
SaskTel and Des Nedhe Group said they have already started identifying and pursuing early commercial opportunities under their agreement.
Photo of (l-r) David Ekstrand, SaskTel vice president of business sales and solutions, and Sean Willy, president and CEO of Des Nedhe Group, courtesy of SaskTel
