📋 Tender Overview
The CRTC is taking action to bring high-speed satellite Internet service to all communities in Nunavut for the first time.
In 2019, the CRTC launched the Broadband Fund to help connect underserved rural, remote and Indigenous communities across Canada. To date, the Broadband Fund has committed over $300 million to improve high-speed Internet and cellphone services in more than 230 communities.
Through its Broadband Fund, the CRTC is providing funding to SSi Micro Ltd. to upgrade its satellite Internet service, which is a milestone in supporting improved telecommunications in the territory. The CRTC is also providing funding to Keewaytinook Okimakanak to maintain satellite Internet connectivity in two First Nations communities in Northern Ontario, and providing additional funding for Northwestel Inc. to deliver fibre-based Internet services to Atlin, an underserved Indigenous community in Northern British Columbia.
The projects announced today have received significant community support. In Nunavut, for example, municipalities, residents, businesses, and non-governmental organizations submitted letters to the CRTC emphasizing how high-speed Internet will improve access to education and healthcare, while helping to preserve Inuit culture and language.
Together, these projects will help 28 Indigenous communities access communications services, and are part of the CRTC’s ongoing commitment to better support reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples.
The CRTC continues to assess applications and will make more funding announcements in 2024.
Quote
“We know how important high-quality Internet and cellphone services are to every aspect of peoples’ daily lives. Today marks a significant milestone, with the CRTC helping connect all communities in Nunavut to high-speed Internet service for the first time.”
- Vicky Eatrides, Chairperson and Chief Executive Officer, CRTC
