The Nuclear Waste Management Organization (NWMO), a Canadian non-profit responsible for managing Canada's used nuclear fuel, planned to announce an international cooperation agreement with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). This initiative required a strategic rollout and a high-profile signing ceremony to engage key stakeholders and secure broad media coverage.

Proof Strategies developed a comprehensive communications plan to achieve the NWMO’s multifaceted objectives, which included engaging key stakeholders in both Canadian and U.S. governmental and industry sectors and mitigating potential risks and ensuring all stakeholder interests were addressed in the communication strategy. To further amplify the announcement, Proof organized a high-profile signing ceremony at the Embassy of Canada, hosting approximately 50 key guests. Proof managed all aspects of the event, including speakers, invitations, catering, photography, and logistics.

The announcement and event resulted in significant outcomes:

• Extensive industry and regional media coverage in both the U.S. and Canada, raising awareness of the collaboration.

• High social media engagement, amplified by Canadian governmental agencies, expanding the message’s reach.

• Compelling visuals and photography, providing the NWMO with valuable materials for future communications.

• A strengthened cross-border relationship between the U.S. Department of Energy, the NWMO, and external stakeholders, establishing the agreement as a key milestone in international nuclear waste management.

The strategic communication plan and event successfully solidified the NWMO’s partnership with DOE.