National forum to address rural connectivity gaps and digital access solutions
The Saskatchewan Broadband Action Committee (SBAC) continues its efforts to reduce the digital divide by encouraging open discussions on rural connectivity and digital adoption. As part of this ongoing work, the committee plans to play a leading role at a national broadband conference scheduled for November 2026 in Saskatoon.
The event will be held in partnership with the Canadian Rural and Remote Broadband Community (CRRBC) and will focus on improving access to reliable internet services across rural and remote regions.
“We are excited to welcome the conference to Saskatchewan, a province where expanding broadband connectivity remains a critical priority,” said Laurel Feltin, SARM Executive Director. “We are optimistic that the technologies and strategies showcased here will contribute meaningful solutions for extending broadband access and helping to connect the remaining last-mile communities.”
The conference is expected to bring together community leaders, municipal representatives, industry experts, and policymakers from across Canada. Its main goal is to share ideas, strategies, and technologies that can help expand broadband access, especially in communities that still face last mile connectivity challenges. These discussions are important because internet access is now essential for education, healthcare, business growth, daily communication – as well as today’s agriculture.
Committee leaders believe Saskatchewan is a meaningful location for this national conversation. Many rural areas in the province still experience limited or unreliable broadband services. By hosting the conference locally, the committee hopes to highlight real challenges while also learning from successful models used in other regions.
Municipal leaders are expected to play an active role in the event. Local governments across Saskatchewan continue to look for practical ways to improve digital infrastructure for residents and businesses. The conference will give them a platform to connect with service providers and government decision makers, helping to move projects forward.
“We aim to ensure every individual and business in every Saskatchewan community, no matter how remote, has the communications infrastructure they need now and in the future. Municipal leaders in Saskatchewan are eager for the opportunity to connect with industry leaders and policymakers to share strategies for expanding rural broadband access,” said Jean-Marc Nadeau, CEO of SUMA commented.
The Saskatchewan Broadband Action Committee represents a wide range of provincial, local, and Indigenous organizations, along with service providers and community networks. The group was formed due to shared concerns about lost opportunities caused by limited connectivity. Its members work together to promote fair and equal broadband access for everyone in the province.
Through this conference, the committee hopes to support long-term solutions that improve digital inclusion. The event is expected to strengthen partnerships, encourage innovation, and move Saskatchewan closer to the goal of reliable broadband access for all residents, regardless of where they live.
Farms.com also encourages agri-business and farming organizations to become involved.