Telecom Notice of Consultation CRTC 2026-63-1

Reference: 2026-63

Gatineau, 6 August 2026

Broadband Fund – Fourth call for applications – Change to procedure

Revised deadline for filing of applications: 15 October 2026 at 5 p.m. Vancouver time (8 p.m. Gatineau time)

On 23 July 2026, Quebecor Media Inc., on behalf of Videotron Ltd. (Quebecor), filed a letter requesting that the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (the Commission) extend the deadline to file applications under the fourth call of the Broadband Fund from 13 August 2026 to 31 October 2026.
In its letter, Quebecor requested additional time to engage meaningfully with municipalities, rights holders, and other key partners, many of which have reduced availability during the summer months. Quebecor also stated that additional time would allow it to validate on-the-ground needs, obtain letters of support, and more accurately identify and develop eligible projects using the Commission’s new mapping tool.
The Commission considers that extending the deadline by two months will provide potential applicants with the additional time needed to complete the steps identified by Quebecor, while also balancing the Commission’s commitment to quickly deliver broadband funding to underserved areas in Canada.
Accordingly, the Commission hereby revises the deadline to file applications under the fourth call of the Broadband Fund to 15 October 2026, 5 p.m. Vancouver time (8 p.m. Gatineau time).

Secretary General