The ‘First Mile’ refers to locally driven broadband initiatives. First Mile broadband includes infrastructure and networks, and it focuses on local connectivity from the perspective of a community. Across Canada, First Nations are building broadband systems. To be effective, these systems must be designed and implemented with local communities from the very start. Community members need access to
bandwidth and proper training. With these tools, they can help shape technologies to meet local needs. First Nations governments recognize they need a high broadband capacity to support their delivery of community and social services. Services such as videoconferencing, telemedicine and e-learning can be viewed as essential services for rural and remote First Nations communities, and these services depend on a strong and reliable bandwidth connection. Locally owned networks also support future development because local control means First Nations can decide what to do with these tools. Locally controlled infrastructure also has economic benefits for the community. The First Mile project explores and celebrates the ways that First Nations communities implement and utilize broadband and ICT to deliver essential services to community members. The First Mile project is a partnership between First Nation ICT regional networks, and university-based researchers. The First Nations partners are:
Keewaytinook Okimakanak (KO) in Ontario
First Nation Help Desk (FNHD) in Atlantic Canada
First Nations Education Council (FNEC) in Quebec
The University partners are:
Simon Fraser University in B.C. The University of New Brunswick
To learn more about the First Mile concept and about the activities of the First Mile Project, visit: http://www.firstmile.ca
