The Tanana Chiefs Conference (TCC) in Fairbanks, Alaska, has announced a $35 million grant to install affordable, reliable high-speed broadband in three underserved tribal communities.

The effort is part of the Alaska FiberOptic Project, which is a larger collaboration between Calista Corporation, Doyon, Ltd., Gana-A ‘Yoo Ltd., TCC, and Alaska Communications to connect more than 20 communities in the Yukon and Kuskokwim regions. The funding to TCC will support the installation of completely fiber-based networks in the villages of Venetie, Chalkyitsik, and Circle. The Alaska FiberOptic Project aims to bridge the digital divide for many rural communities, providing access to virtual meetings, online classes, telehealth, and online jobs without having to compromise the villages’ way of life. 

“The lack of reliable connectivity perpetuates disparities in education, health care, economic opportunities, and social well-being for our people,” said TCC chief and chair Brian Ridley. “We’re working diligently with our Native Corporation partners, the Alaska Delegation, government entities, and Alaska Communications to remedy market conditions that have left our Alaska Native Villages on the wrong side of the digital divide. Mahsi' Choo to the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Biden-Harris administration for this profound opportunity.” 

(Photo credit: Getty Images/Wildnerdpix)