CanNor multi-year funding:
2010-11: $ 81,750
2011-12: $193,250
Total project value:
$275,000
The Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency (CanNor) has made an investment of $275,000 over two years to support the development of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) infrastructure initiatives by the K'atl'odeeche First Nation (KFN) of the Northwest Territories.
The KFN will use the CanNor funds to build a local fibre-optic network, establish local ICT certification training, and research the potential to build a fibre-optic connection to southern Canada to access broadband services.
The fibre optic network will connect the Band office, school, health centre, daycare, and New Adult Learning Centre. The installation will increase internal network speeds, improve network management, and lower connectivity costs. The new fibre also has the capacity to deliver broadband when future connection is made to the fibre backbone. Broadband would enable advanced applications such as media-rich learning, tele-health consultations, video conference meetings, and distance learning.
The ICT support certificate training will be delivered by the new Adult Learning Centre at Aurora College near the reserve. The First Nation will identify and develop the course scope, needs, and requirements in cooperation with the College. ICT certification of individuals from across the NWT will help meet the growing demand in the territory for computer repair and networking professionals.
Currently, the cost to connect the community to existing broadband carriers is prohibitive. The KFN will conduct research on the feasibility of alternative connection options, including registration as a Competitive Local Exchange Carrier (C-LEC) or connection to the Alberta SuperNet.
These investments are made possible through CanNor's Strategic Investments in Northern Economic Development (SINED) program, which focuses on long-term economic growth, economic diversification and capacity building in all three territories.
SINED is one of several economic development programs within CanNor. CanNor is responsible for coordinating and delivering Canada's economic development across the North, and for related policy development, research and advocacy.
