Our Mandate
The National Indigenous Connectivity Initiative (NICI) is committed to advocating for all remote and rural First Nations across Canada to have access to spectrum and high-speed internet.
A Nationally Supported Initiative
In April 2022, the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) passed an Executive Resolution supporting a national Indigenous digital consortium. NICI is exemplifying this vision and is aligned with AFN resolution calls for:
- Indigenous-led Connectivity Solutions – Urging Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) to support NICI in ensuring high-speed internet solutions developed by First Nations, for First Nations.
- Dedicated Federal Funding – Calling on the Government of Canada to create First Nations-specific funding and criteria within the Universal Broadband Fund, ensuring long-term investment in Indigenous connectivity initiatives and training.
- Collaborative Support & Policy Change – Advocating for ISC and Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) to work directly with NICI to increase Indigenous service-provider capacities, access to spectrum, market data, and policy frameworks that enable affordable, community-driven internet solutions.
NICI is actively working with First Nations to advance these commitments and drive real change in connectivity access.
By supporting community-led solutions and advocating for policy reforms, we are ensuring that First Nations have the tools and infrastructure needed to thrive in a connected world.
Together, we can close the digital divide and build a future where every First Nation has access to affordable, high-speed internet.