CRTC extends deadline for proposed Indigenous broadband funding stream
The CRTC has extended the deadline to comment on its proposed Indigenous stream of the Broadband Fund to Dec. 1, 2026 at 8 p.m. Eastern time. The proceeding could matter to Nunavut Inuit organizations, governments and communities seeking a funding process better suited to Indigenous-led internet and cellphone projects, but it is a consultation, not a funding call or approval. Source↗
What happened
In Telecom Notice of Consultation CRTC 2026-47-1, issued Sept. 17, the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission moved the intervention deadline from Sept. 18 to Dec. 1, 2026. It also moved the deadline for replies from Dec. 18, 2026 to March 2, 2027. The public record number is 1011-NOC2026-0047. Source↗
Why it matters
The CRTC is asking how to design a separate Indigenous stream within its Broadband Fund, including its application process, eligible costs and reporting rules. The Commission says the stream is intended to reduce barriers for Indigenous applicants and recognizes the distinct rights, priorities and circumstances of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples. That could affect the terms of future funding opportunities for Nunavut-based Inuit-led connectivity projects, but no new stream, project funding or Nunavut allocation has yet been approved. Source↗
What happens next
Comments, called interventions, are due by Dec. 1, 2026 at 8 p.m. Eastern time. People or organizations that submit an intervention by that deadline become parties to the proceeding and can file replies by March 2, 2027. The CRTC says it plans to post a draft policy for further comment before making a final decision. Source↗
Important details
Proceeding: Telecom Notice of Consultation CRTC 2026-47, amended by 2026-47-1. Public record: 1011-NOC2026-0047. Current status: open. The consultation asks about a tailored application and funding process, reporting requirements and eligible costs. The CRTC says formal comments will be public and offers assistance to First Nations, Inuit and Métis people and organizations seeking to participate. Source↗
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