CRTC seeks Nunavut input by Sept. 18 on Indigenous broadband-funding stream
The CRTC’s consultation on an Indigenous-specific stream within its Broadband Fund remains open until Sept. 18, 2026. The proceeding could affect how Inuit organizations, communities and Indigenous-led entities apply for funding for high-speed internet and cellphone infrastructure, but it does not approve a new funding stream or commit money to a Nunavut project. Sourcecrtc.gc.ca↗
What happened
Telecom Notice of Consultation CRTC 2026-47, public record 1011-NOC2026-0047, asks for comments on how to develop an Indigenous stream of the CRTC Broadband Fund. The Commission is seeking views on an application and funding process suited to Indigenous applicants, tailored recipient reporting and eligible costs. Its consultation materials are available in South Baffin Inuktitut as well as English and French. Sourcecrtc.gc.ca↗
Why it matters
The proposed stream is aimed at reducing barriers for Indigenous applicants seeking support for capital projects that would improve high-speed internet or cellphone services. For Nunavut, the open proceeding provides an opportunity for Inuit organizations, communities and local service interests to put concerns about remote connectivity and funding rules on the public record before the CRTC makes a policy decision. Sourcecrtc.gc.ca↗
What happens next
Formal interventions must reach the CRTC by Friday, Sept. 18, 2026, at 8 p.m. Eastern time. Only parties that file an intervention by that date may take part in later stages; replies are due Dec. 18, 2026. The CRTC says First Nations, Inuit and Métis people or organizations may seek help submitting comments, including oral interventions, through its Indigenous Relations Team. Sourcecrtc.gc.ca↗
Important details
This is a consultation, not an active Indigenous-only funding intake, funding award or service commitment. The CRTC’s notice asks, among other questions, whether its current definition of an Indigenous applicant should change and how self-identification should work in the proposed stream. The CRTC’s current consultations index continues to list the proceeding as open. Sourcecrtc.gc.ca↗
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