For more than two decades, Arrow Technology Group (ATG) has been transforming digital access across Alberta’s First Nations and Métis communities. What began as a small IT service provider has grown into one of the largest First Nations‑led technology companies in the province, expanding broadband infrastructure, building digital capacity, and creating lasting economic benefits for the communities it serves. The NIEDB met with ATG in Spring 2025, during its Board meeting in Métis Crossing, Alberta.
Background
Arrow Technology Group’s roots trace back to 1998 with Strategic Information Systems (SIS), a company founded by Bruce Burman and Lyndon Lobo to address the lack of IT services and reliable technology available to rural, First Nations, and Métis communities in Alberta. As demand grew, SIS expanded into residential and commercial broadband, becoming one of the first companies to bring high‑speed connectivity to underserved regions of the province.
A major shift for the company came in 2012, when SIS entered into a partnership with the First Nations Technical Advisory Group (TSAG). TSAG—established by Alberta’s Chiefs in 1996—had built a province‑wide mandate to support First Nations communities in areas such as public works, environmental management, and technical training. TSAG formed Arrow Technology Group Limited Partnership after acquiring 51% of SIS, merging complementary strengths and aligning the company with a broader Indigenous-led vision.
This partnership marked the beginning of a new chapter. Arrow became not only a technology provider, but a strategic supporter of community development and digital infrastructure. Since then, Arrow has expanded its services, enhanced its technical capabilities, and aligned its mission with TSAG’s long-standing commitment to supporting First Nations self-sufficiency and well-being.
Challenges
Across Alberta, many First Nations and Métis communities have historically faced limited access to broadband, aging or inadequate digital infrastructure, and a lack of reliable IT support. These challenges affected everything from education and healthcare to economic development and governance.
Key issues included:
- Limited connectivity options: Many communities relied on outdated systems or had no high-speed access at all, restricting participation in the digital economy.
- High costs and infrastructure gaps: Remote areas faced significant barriers to building and maintaining modern fiber networks or telecommunications towers.
- Dependence on external service providers: Community IT systems were often managed by external companies with little connection to the people they served, limiting long‑term capacity development.
- Growing digital demands: As internet use expanded—for online learning, telehealth, remote work, and business development—existing networks could not keep pace.
Addressing these challenges required a provider capable not only of building modern infrastructure, but of doing so in a way that respected local priorities and strengthened community capacity.
Solutions
Arrow Technology Group responded by designing tailored, community‑driven solutions built on long-term relationships and a deep understanding of First Nations’ priorities.
1. Building Fibre and Broadband Infrastructure: Since 2015, Arrow has deployed more than 500 km of fibre optic infrastructure, enabling reliable, high‑speed service that supports modern governance, education, healthcare, and business services. Fibre deployment also supports Arrow’s network of wireless towers, ensuring stable connectivity across diverse geographies.
2. Expanding Service to Indigenous Communities: Arrow now delivers broadband services to 73 communities across Alberta, including 49 First Nations and Métis Settlements—making it one of the largest Indigenous-led connectivity providers in the province. The company’s service footprint ensures that communities often ignored by mainstream providers are included in Alberta’s digital landscape.
3. Providing Managed IT Services and Technical Support: Arrow offers “one‑stop” IT solutions that include consulting, data centre services, maintenance, and managed IT support. By delivering these services directly to communities, Arrow helps build digital resilience and reduces reliance on external contractors.
4. Strengthening Community Capacity: In partnership with TSAG, Arrow’s work supports training and capacity-building initiatives, ensuring that First Nations have the tools and knowledge to manage and sustain their digital systems. This approach reflects TSAG’s long-standing mandate to build technical skills and empower local staff.
5. Guided by Indigenous Values and Leadership: With TSAG as majority owner, Arrow operates under Indigenous-led governance and shared mission-driven principles, including community benefit, integrity, and long‑term sustainability. This ensures that technology development serves local needs and aligns with community priorities.
Results
Arrow Technology Group’s impact extends far beyond broadband connectivity. The company has become a catalyst for Indigenous economic development in the province, contributing to long-term prosperity and community empowerment.
High‑speed connectivity improves access to telehealth appointments, online education, remote work opportunities, and communication—services that strengthen overall community well-being.
Reliable broadband opens pathways for local entrepreneurship, digital skills training, online commerce, and participation in regional economic opportunities. For many communities, Arrow’s infrastructure is foundational to growing their digital economies.
With secure networks and managed IT services, First Nations administrations can operate efficiently, protect sensitive information, and adopt modern digital tools to support governance and service delivery.
Arrow stands as a leading example of Indigenous-owned enterprise in the technology sector. Its success demonstrates how Indigenous-led companies can drive innovation, build technical capacity, and deliver solutions that benefit multiple communities. Arrow Technology Group’s journey reflects the transformative potential of Indigenous-led innovation. By bringing world‑class technology solutions to First Nations and Métis communities, Arrow is bridging gaps, unlocking economic opportunities, and helping shape a future where Indigenous communities drive the digital economy.
"Our goal is to serve communities with the best technology solutions possible. Through partnership and Indigenous leadership, we’re always working toward what’s next."
Brayden Arcand, Vice President, ATG Arrow Technology Group LP