The CRTC is calling for new proposals to improve internet and cell service in underserved areas across the country. The move is part of the regulator’s Broadband Fund, which aims to fill the connectivity gap in rural, remote, and Indigenous communities.
To date, the fund has supported projects in over 320 communities, including 135 Indigenous areas. These projects have helped connect roughly 54,000 homes and improved mobile coverage along more than 650 kilometres of major roads.
“Many Canadians continue to face a gap in access to essential Internet services. The CRTC is helping to close this gap through the Broadband Fund. We have made it faster and easier to get funding, and are now seeking new proposals to connect more Canadians to high-quality Internet services,” said Vicky Eatrides, Chairperson and Chief Executive Officer, CRTC, in a statement.
Faster Process for New Projects
Following criticism over the time it takes to get projects off the ground, the CRTC says it has overhauled the application process. The regulator claims it is now easier for companies to submit proposals and that evaluations will happen faster, allowing funding to be released more quickly.
The goal is to provide high-quality internet to essential locations like schools and health centres that currently struggle with slow or unreliable service.
Companies and organizations interested in the funding have until August 13, 2026, at 5:00 PM PT to submit their plans. The CRTC is specifically looking for projects that target areas where high-speed internet and reliable cell signals are still unavailable.
Instead of digging and laying down fibre, remote areas should leverage satellite internet options like SpaceX’s Starlink. So-called “homegrown” options such as Telecast’s Lightspeed is still years away from actual operation.
Alongside this new call for proposals, the CRTC has also started a separate review to find better ways to specifically connect Indigenous communities.
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