Many remote and northern communities still rely on satellite internet. Speeds are slow. Data caps are tight. Costs are high. The CRTC Broadband Fund is one of the few federal programs designed to directly improve broadband service in satellite-dependent communities, including by funding new satellite transport capacity and related infrastructure.
This guide explains how satellite-dependent communities can access CRTC broadband funding, who can apply, and what types of projects are eligible.
The CRTC — Broadband Fund is a federal, non-repayable funding program created to expand broadband and mobile connectivity in underserved areas across Canada.
One of its specific mandates is to improve broadband Internet access in satellite-dependent communities, where terrestrial fibre or microwave networks are not yet available.
A community is generally considered satellite-dependent if:
The CRTC uses its own mapping, coverage data, and service thresholds to decide whether a community qualifies as underserved.
For satellite-dependent communities, the Broadband Fund can support projects that:
The CRTC looks at how much projects improve service for users, not just the technology.
The Broadband Fund is not applied for directly by individual households or most small businesses. Instead, applications are usually submitted by organizations that build or operate broadband infrastructure.
Eligible applicants usually include:
Communities themselves often participate by partnering with a provider, supporting project planning, or providing letters of support.
This is an important point for satellite-dependent communities: access to funding usually starts with finding the right delivery partner.
The CRTC Broadband Fund runs competitive application calls, not continuous intake.
Key steps include:
CRTC issues a call for applications
Calls may focus on specific project types, including satellite transport capacity.
Applicants submit detailed proposals
Proposals must include technical plans, budgets, timelines, and proof of community need.
CRTC evaluation and public process
Applications are reviewed against published criteria, and some may go through a public consultation phase.
Funding decisions and contribution agreements
If approved, projects get funding they do not have to pay back, but must meet reporting rules.
There is no fixed maximum funding amount published. Funding levels depend on project scope, region, and expected impact.
Even though communities are not usually the applicant, they play a critical role.
Ways communities can improve the chances of success include:
Tools like GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you filter programs by province and infrastructure type in seconds, which is useful when identifying complementary funding sources.
Assuming individuals can apply directly
The CRTC Broadband Fund supports infrastructure builders, not individual households or standalone businesses.
Waiting until a call opens to find a partner
Strong applications are usually planned months in advance with a service provider already on board.
Ignoring stacking rules
Projects may combine federal programs, but total government funding is capped and must follow stacking limits.
Underestimating reporting obligations
Approved projects have strict milestones, reporting, and performance requirements.
Q: Is CRTC broadband funding repayable?
No. The CRTC Broadband Fund provides non-repayable contributions. Approved recipients do not repay the funding if they meet the agreement terms.
Q: Can Indigenous communities apply directly?
In some cases, Indigenous organizations may apply if they are also infrastructure operators. More often, they partner with a telecom provider that submits the application.
Q: Does the fund only support satellite projects?
No. The fund also supports fibre transport, mobile wireless along major roads, and other broadband infrastructure. Satellite projects are one specific stream.
Q: Can projects combine CRTC funding with other programs?
Yes. Stacking with other federal or provincial programs may be allowed, but total public funding cannot exceed approved limits.
Q: How long does it take to get funding approved?
Timelines vary. From application to decision can take many months due to technical review and public consultation processes.
If your community depends on satellite internet, the CRTC Broadband Fund can be a key part of improving long-term connectivity. Start by learning if your region is eligible and talk with potential delivery partners early. For more help finding broadband and infrastructure funding, use GrantHub to see which programs fit your community’s needs and timelines.
Was this article helpful?
Rate it so we can improve our content.
Canada Proactive Disclosure Data
The Canadian government has funded over 400,000 businesses through 1.27 million grants and contributions. Check your eligibility in 60 seconds.