The following are some key points regarding this mandate:
ISED has announced its intention to offer unused spectrum to interested indigenous bands. Indigitel is here to help guide any nation through the process from allocation to network construction.
ISED is committed to the objective that all Canadian consumers, businesses and public institutions have access to the latest wireless telecommunications services in a competitive market. A robust wireless telecommunications industry drives the adoption and use of digital technologies and enhances the productivity of the Canadian economy. Wireless services are an important part of Canadians’ lives, whether they are accessing multi-media applications, conducting business while on the move, connecting with family and friends, or managing their finances. In recent years, these services have become increasingly integrated in society. Canadians expect them to be high quality, available in every region of the country, and competitively priced.
Spectrum is a critical component for wireless service providers. ISED views the release of spectrum as an opportunity to enable existing and new providers to expand services and enhance connectivity in underserved areas and support continued competition in the market. In the case of Indigenous communities, businesses and service providers, becoming a spectrum licence holder could support economic reconciliation and provide the ability to best serve the unique needs of their communities.
Greater access to spectrum is also expected to support the creation and expansion of new services and applications in vertical industries, many of which (such as agriculture, manufacturing and mining) are located in rural and remote areas. These industries may benefit from specialized uses, such as private networks, which enable a wide range of automated, robotic and remote operations such as real-time monitoring, dispatching and emergency notifications. While private networks would also enable operators to develop new business opportunities, these networks could also enhance safety and security for people, assets and infrastructure.