The National Indigenous Connectivity Inc held its inaugural National Indigenous Connectivity Conference & Technology Trade Show on February 26-27, 2026 at the Grey Eagle Resort & Casino Hotel Ballroom for two full days.  The National Indigenous Connectivity Conference, hosted by the National Indigenous Connectivity Inc. was held at Tsuut’ina Nation, represents an important milestone in addressing one of Canada’s most persistent challenges: delivering reliable and affordable broadband connectivity to rural and remote First Nations communities.

 Across Turtle Island, First Nation leaders and communities have long understood that connectivity is not merely a technical issue. It is fundamental to economic reconciliation, access to education, healthcare, public safety, cultural preservation, and digital data sovereignty. Despite numerous government initiatives over the years, several First Nation communities continue to face significant connectivity gaps and being underserved. This challenge extends beyond spectrum access or project funding; it lies in aligning the broader ecosystem required to deploy and sustain reliable technology networks.

 The National Indigenous Connectivity Conference served as a critical convening platform, bringing together community leaders, academics, government representatives, and industry partners. By creating a shared forum for in-depth dialogue, the connectivity conference enabled meaningful discussions about both the opportunities and limitations within current government policies and restrictive funding programs affecting First Nations connectivity access.

 An important international feature of the Connectivity Conference was the International Spectrum Working Committee panel where the delegates witnessed experts from four countries collaboratively working together identifying gaps in spectrum policy, data security, digital inclusion and connectivity opportunities.  Canada, New Zealand, Mexico and the United States were represented by Leoni Rivers, Antony Royal, Erick Huerta Velazquez and Darrah Blackwater respectively.

 A number of important policy initiatives and developments were discussed, including the Indigenous Priority Window (IPW) introduced by Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada, (ISED). While the IPW represents an important step forward in improving First Nations access to spectrum resources, conference discussions reinforced a key reality: spectrum access alone cannot close the connectivity gap. Sustainable broadband networks require a comprehensive ecosystem that includes infrastructure investment, financing mechanisms, technical expertise, regulatory alignment, and strong partnerships between First Nation organizations and First Nation expertise and Industry network operators.

 A significant reason for the success and impact of the connectivity conference was the leadership and dedication of the National Indigenous Connectivity Board, specifically, Leoni Rivers and Andrew Victor. Through their vision and tireless efforts in organizing and sponsoring this event, they brought together an exceptional group of experts and participants from across Canada’s connectivity ecosystem. Their leadership created the conditions necessary for a safe space, open dialogue, collaborative thinking, and the exploration of practical pathways toward closing the connectivity gap.

 As a result of this work, the National Indigenous Connectivity Inc. has clearly positioned itself as a leading national organization focused on addressing connectivity challenges facing rural and remote First Nation communities across Turtle Island. By convening diverse rightsholders, stakeholders and fostering collaboration between community leadership, government, academia, and industry, this organization is helping to bridge long-standing gaps between policy ambiguity and practical implementation.

 Importantly, the connectivity conference moved the discussion beyond policy theory toward real-world solutions. Participants explored how coordinated strategies can align policy frameworks, infrastructure investment, financing, and operational partnerships.   This collaborative approach is essential if Canada is to achieve sustainable connectivity outcomes for First Nations, rural and remote communities.

 The connectivity conference outcomes included four national strategy sub-committees being struck, namely, Tech Innovators & Service Providers, Cybersecurity, and Cyber Safety, Technical Training and Youth Tech Technicians. Discussions also reinforced a broader national understanding: connectivity is critical to Canada’s stability, security, and shared prosperity. Reliable broadband infrastructure strengthens economic reconciliation, enhances public safety, supports local economic development, and ensures that Indigenous communities can fully participate in the digital economy.

 Ultimately, the National Indigenous Connectivity Conference demonstrated the power of collaboration and Indigenous-led leadership. Through the efforts of Leoni Rivers, CEO and the National Indigenous Connectivity Inc., Board of Directors, the connectivity conference has laid an important foundation for transforming policy initiatives into tangible connectivity outcomes for First Nations communities across Canada.