Canada Infrastructure Bank partners with Arrow Technology Group to bring Indigenous-owned broadband infrastructure online for Alberta
Construction is underway for 20 Indigenous and four rural communities to high speed internet.
Internet
EDMONTON (AB), Jan. 19, 2023 /CNW/ – The Canada Infrastructure Bank (CIB) and ATG Arrow Technology Group Limited Partnership (Arrow) have formalized their agreement for the CIB to lend $8.1 Million To build a new broadband infrastructure that serves rural and Indigenous communities Alberta. This investment is part the CIB’s Indigenous Community Infrastructure Initiative, which provides lending solutions to help accelerate Indigenous infrastructure projects.
The new broadband service will close an infrastructure gap by connecting underserved households in 20 Indigenous and 4 rural communities. Arrow will be responsible for all aspects related to construction, installation, operation, and maintenance of the broadband service. Construction activities are already underway to provide equitable access for online education, public services, and ecommerce.
The CIB’s funding comes in addition to grant funding.
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The Government Canada’s Universal Broadband Fund Rapid Response stream
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Broadband Fund of the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission
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Connect to Innovate Canada – Innovation, Science and Economic Development
The Indigenous communities benefiting from the broadband include First Nations from Treaty 8 and Treaty 6, as well as Métis Settlements, marking the CIB’s first investment towards addressing infrastructure gaps within Métis communities.
The cost per household to connect is high due to low population density and the current shortage of broadband infrastructure in rural areas. Arrow can charge affordable rates to its rural and Indigenous customers, thanks to the CIB’s financing rates. This allows broadband connectivity to grow in underserved areas at a faster pace.
Here are quick facts
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To deploy the infrastructure, it will require building a fiber optic backbone network as well as a number of greenfield “last mile” projects to connect homes.
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Broadband service will provide speeds up to 50-300Mbps and unlimited data. This will enhance telecommunications services available for residents, businesses, and public service delivery.
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The CIB’s Indigenous Community Infrastructure Initiative invests in community-based initiatives that provide a service and a direct advantage to Indigenous communities or communities.
Endorsements
“In the CIB’s Indigenous Community Infrastructure Initiative, we have our $8.1M Arrow Technology Group invests in a majority First Nations business that will expand its operations and services to 20 Indigenous communities and four rural communities. Alberta. New broadband access will close the digital divide and create new opportunities for economic growth. It will also support public services such as education and health, and strengthen communities.
Ehren Cory, CEO, Canada Infrastructure Bank
“Arrow Technology Group supports Indigenous communities through high-speed connectivity. We recognize the importance in bridging digital divide. Therefore, we are committed providing all the tools and resources necessary to succeed. This will create new educational, business, and social opportunities. The Canada Infrastructure Bank and this collaboration will allow us to connect more Indigenous, rural communities. Alberta To high-speed internet
Vaughn PaulPresident, Arrow Technology Group Limited Partnership
“The internet can equalize access to knowledge and resources for Indigenous communities. These projects will have lasting effects thanks to Canada Infrastructure Bank and Arrow Technology Group. Access to the same opportunities and resources as the rest of the country. AlbertaWe can help those who were previously left behind to have a better future.
George Arcand Jr., Chief of Alexander First Nation
Our government understands that high-speed internet is not a luxury but a necessity. Everyday more services are available online. All Canadians need reliable internet access to be able to access government services, pay their bills, and communicate with loved ones and friends. Today’s announcement helps to bridge the connectivity gap that many rural Albertans experience and provides good-paying jobs.
The Honourable Randy Boissonnault, Ministry of Tourism and Associate Secretary of Finance, for the Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, Ministre of Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructure and Communities
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SOURCE Canada Infrastructure Bank
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