THE PROJECT
The First Mile Connectivity Consortium (FMCC) is a national association of non-profit First Nations community-based telecommunications organizations serving remote and rural communities. Their work is dedicated to research, advocacy, policy engagement and capacity-building for Indigenous-owned internet service providers. This project involved gathering evidence and mobilizing underserved Indigenous communities and organizations to intervene at the CRTC review of telecommunications Basic Service Objectives. They showcased how Indigenous organizations are developing and using digital networks and applications and presented new evidence highlighting the capabilities of non-profit service providers in underserved communities. They also expanded FMCC’s website and conducted public outreach activities to increase FMCC membership and visibility.
COMMUNITY IMPACT
FMCC produced a research report, A Guide to Federal Funding for Indigenous Broadband in Canada. The guide provides an overview of active and historical broadband funding mechanisms provided by government departments and funding agencies at the federal level in order to support the accessibility of these funds for community-based organizations, especially for Indigenous organizations. Through their public engagement they increased awareness of the FMCC’s work, both at the CRTC hearings and more generally through media coverage and presentations at academic conferences and public events. In October 2016, FMCC received an Award of Excellence from the Canadian Race Relations for their work.
RELATED LINKS
- Read the report, A Guide to Federal Funding for Indigenous Broadband in Canada
- FMCC’s blog about the project
PHOTOS
