Backgrounder - Government of Canada Supports Better Connectivity

The Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency, on behalf of the Government of Canada, will provide a total of $265,000 for two projects which aim to improve Internet connectivity to communities in the Northwest Territories. 

Katlodeeche First Nation Community Broadband ($215,000)

The Katlodeeche First Nation (KFN) is a member of the Dehcho First Nations, with a community of about 300 people near the Town of Hay River. 

KFN’s Band Council hopes to improve its Broadband and Internet service and cost-share the resource with other departments, like the Judith Fabian Group Home and the KFN Daycare.

This project will provide immediate cost savings and administrative improvements for the band council, as well as training and employment opportunities for local residents. Improved Broadband connectivity will also provide the KFN with a lasting technological resource and contribute to overall health and wellbeing of the community.

CanNor’s funding will enable KFN to:

• Install an industry-standard LAN system within the KFN office, and a wireless LAN between the band’s office and other band departments
• Install Internet access points throughout the community for the use of local residents
• Upgrade or install video-conferencing in Council Chambers and at the local health centre
• Update the KFN website
• Research the feasibility of extending fibre optic infrastructure to the band office
• Train local residents as information technology (IT) technicians.

KFN has engaged the services of the Keewatin Career Development Corporation, a First Nations SchoolNet Regional Management Office, for this work.

Yellowknives Dene First Nation IT Service Feasibility Study ($50,000)

The Yellowknives Dene First Nation (YKDFN) administers community services, public works and land and environment programs in the Dene communities of Ndilo and Dettah. Its IT services are currently provided by an external company, and the community schools, administration and various departments are not networked together. 

CanNor’s funding will enable the YKDFN to explore the possible creation of a YKDFN-managed IT service to connect its offices with members, business partners, service providers and the outside world.

With CanNor’s funding, YKDFN will engage the services of a consultant to assist them to:

• Determine the feasibility of a YKDFN-managed electronic community (e-Community) that specifically addresses YKDFN needs and development
• Develop a business plan to serve as a future e-Community financing tool, and to guide the YKDFN through the creation and operation of this initiative.

Strategic Investments in Northern Economic Development (SINED)

Funding for this project was provided through the Strategic Investments in Northern Economic Development (SINED) program, part of Canada’s Economic Action Plan. SINED is delivered by CanNor in the three territories.