The Arctic Winter Games formally began with the registration of the Arctic Winter Games Corporation under the Canada Corporations Act on January 18, 1968. In 1992, the Arctic Winter Games Corporation changed its name to the Arctic Winter Games International Committee (AWGIC) to eliminate confusion with other Games organizations and to reflect the increasing international flavour of the Games.
The Vision, Mission, Values & Role are guidelines followed by the AWGIC to keep the integrity of the Games and promote a positive and unforgettable experience for host communities and participants.
To be the premier circumpolar sport and cultural event for northern youth.
To provide a meaningful Arctic Winter Games Experience
Respect - We believe in fair play, equity, diversity, and inclusion
Accountability - We operate with transparency and are answerable for our actions
Participant Centred - We will champion the well-being and safety of all participants
Integrity - We hold ourselves to high ethical and professional standards
Collaboration - We strive for mutually beneficial relationships
The AWGIC supervises the overall development and implementation of the Games. Some of its functions are to:
The AWGIC has committed to the following strategic goals:
| 1. Governance & Management | 2. Sustainability & Relevance | 3. Engagement & Relationships | 
| We will have the structure,  policies and capacity to lead efficiently and effectively.  | 
						We will have the resources  and willingness to be viable, responsive, and adaptable.  | 
						We will be a trusted leader  who collaborates with stakeholders to set and achieve shared goals.  | 
					
| In order to achieve these goals we will focus on the following objectives: | ||
| 1.1 Strengthen governance  structure to enhance Board effectiveness, composition, and mandate  | 
						2.1 Establish a sustainable  financial model to achieve our Vision  | 
						3.1 Establish a customized  engagement strategy for each Host Society to deliver successful Games  | 
					
| 1.2 Enhance management  structure to improve our operations, decision-making and communications  | 
						2.2 Re-affirm long-term  government commitments to the Games  | 
						3.2 Develop clear and  transparent engagement strategies for all contingents and other stakeholders  | 
					
| 1.3 Enhance transfer of  knowledge system for board and staff to support succession planning  | 
						2.3 Develop adaptive and  sustainable hosting models  | 
						3.3 Develop an effective  communications strategy to share the unique heritage and benefits of the Games  |