OTTAWA and GATINEAU — The CRTC today launched its third call for applications to its $750-million Broadband Fund for projects to improve access to broadband internet and mobile wireless services across Canada.
The CRTC’s third call focuses specifically on transport infrastructure projects, mobile wireless infrastructure projects along major roads, and projects requiring operational funding to increase satellite transport capacity in satellite-dependent communities, a press release explains.
“The CRTC is placing increased emphasis on community consultation and resiliency,” the release reads. “This means that when assessing the projects submitted under this call, the CRTC will use increased weighting of (a) the quality of consultation with each affected community, and (b) the degree to which proposed projects will improve the overall resiliency of new and/or existing infrastructure.”
Applicants to the fund “must have at least three years’ experience deploying and operating broadband infrastructure in Canada and must invest financially in their project and demonstrate it would not be viable without the support of the Broadband Fund,” the release says.
Applications that were submitted during the first and second rounds of applications will not be considered in the third call, according to the release, which adds, “However, applications may be updated and re-submitted if they are eligible for funding for this call for applications.”
Applications must be submitted using the CRTC’s online application form by April 18, 2023, at 5 p.m. PST. The CRTC has published an application guide here.
“Today, we are launching the third call for applications with the goal of connecting more Canadians wherever they are located,” CRTC Chair and CEO Ian Scott said in the release. “We are pleased with the progress made so far with the Broadband Fund. Approximately $226.5 million has been dedicated to 49 projects in nine provinces and two territories. There is still much to be done so that everyone in our vast country may be connected and participate in the digital economy. With a focus on transport, mobile, and satellite projects, we will connect even more remote areas across Canada.”
Photo of CRTC Chairman Ian Scott
