Beyond Funding: Barriers to Extending Broadband in the Indigenous North

Abstract

Background: Policies for developing broadband in rural and remote regions typically focus on infrastructure funding. This article postulates that funding may be necessary but is often not sufficient to install and operate sustainable broadband services in these areas. Analysis: This article analyzes issues raised in recent Canadian regulatory proceedings concerning broadband deployment and evidence submitted by Indigenous and community broadband providers that serve rural and remote regions in the Canadian North. Conclusions and implications: Several suggestions are provided to improve policies designed to extend reliable and affordable broadband and to facilitate the provision of services by small and Indigenous providers. These include reconsideration of northern jurisdictions to harmonize regulations, a Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission office dedicated to Indigenous issues, requirements for Indigenous consultation and training and hiring of residents, and procedures to expedite installation and procurement for Indigenous networks.