Government of Canada encouraging companies to put more spectrum to use through its latest residual spectrum auction
News release
February 6, 2026 – Ottawa, Ontario
Today, the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions, announced that more Canadians will have better access to higher-quality telecom services as a result of the 2026 auction of residual spectrum licences. Residual auctions put up for sale spectrum that was previously unsold in another auction or was returned. In total, 196 licences out of 207 available were awarded to three Canadian companies. This represents almost 99% of all available spectrum up for auction that will now be put to use.
This auction will encourage competition and innovation, improve rural and remote connectivity, and support the effective deployment of 5G technologies across the country. Licences awarded in this auction include ambitious deployment requirements to ensure that providers use this spectrum to offer services to Canadians in a timely manner.
The Government of Canada will continue to find new, innovative ways to invest in essential services for Canadians by reducing red tape; by supporting the safe, efficient and reliable development and expansion of infrastructure; and by putting its existing policies to good use.
Quotes
“Reliable telecommunications are essential to how Canadians live, work and connect with one another. Canadians in every region of the country deserve resilient, modern networks that keep them part of our economy and strengthen communities. Ensuring that spectrum doesn’t sit idle is one of many ways we work toward that. There’s always more to be done, and the Government of Canada will continue improving availability, reliability and affordability. Our government is driving forward to ensure Canada’s networks are accessible, dependable, and affordable for everyone.”
– The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions
Quick facts
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Spectrum is the range of invisible frequencies that travel through the air and connect us in a wireless world.
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A residual spectrum auction is the process Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada uses to sell licences that went unsold in previous spectrum auctions or that have been returned to the department.
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In certain residual auctions where licenses have previously gone unsold multiple times, ISED may amend bidder eligibility restrictions to encourage full usage of available spectrum.
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There were 207 licences in the 2 GHz, 2300 MHz, 3500 MHz and 3800 MHz bands available.
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Auction revenue totalled $415,565,262, which will be paid into the Consolidated Revenue Fund administered by the Receiver General for Canada.
Associated links
Contacts
Gabrielle Landry
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions
gabrielle.landry@ised-isde.gc.ca
Media Relations
Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada
media@ised-isde.gc.ca
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