Canadian, Alberta Governments Invest $2.6 Million to Equip Indigenous Households with High-Speed Internet 

Nate Glubish, Alberta’s Minister of Technology and Innovation, recently announced combined federal and provincial funding of over $2.6 million for Tsuut’ina Nation, located just outside of Calgary.

The move is part of the Alberta Broadband Strategy and the Universal Broadband Fund, both of which supply funding in an effort to outfit all Canadians with reliable internet connections.

“This investment is life-changing for Tsuut’ina,” stated Glubish. “Access to reliable high-speed Internet will give families and businesses access to the tools and resources they need to compete and thrive in our increasingly digital world.”

Alongside Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development, Glubish announced that high-speed Internet access to over 300 households in the Indigenous community in the Nation will be established.

“Access to fast, reliable Internet helps Indigenous communities by levelling the playing field so they can access essential services like health care and education, participate in the digital economy, or simply connect with loved ones,” stated Hutchings.

Tsuut’ina Nation Telecommunications is to carry out the project and maintain the network.

“This investment empowers Tsuut’ina Nation to become its own Internet service provider for its community,” noted George Chahal, Member of Parliament for Calgary Skyview.

This project is part of an existing agreement between Alberta and Canada. The governments say they will continue to announce projects selected under this agreement over the coming months.

“Our deep-felt gratitude goes out to the federal and provincial agencies, as well as Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada for all the help in making this possibility a reality,” stated Roy Whitney, Chief of Tsuut’ina Nation.

Canada wants 98% of Canadians with access to high-speed Internet by 2026 and 100% by 2030.

“We all know that Internet is no longer a luxury in this day and age—it’s a necessity,” said Hutchings. “Our government will continue to work side by side with our partners to achieve our connectivity targets and ensure every Canadian, no matter where they live, has access to high-speed Internet by 2030.”