Now accepting applications for projects in rural, remote and northern regions of the country
October 15, 2014 – Ottawa – Industry Canada
Canadians live in an increasingly digital world where access to high-speed Internet means access to e-commerce, high-resolution video, employment and distance education. While high-speed Internet delivered on the latest wireless technologies is an important part of everyday life in urban centres, some Canadians in rural and northern regions of the country still do not have access to high-speed Internet.
Industry Minister James Moore today announced the Harper Government's next step in bringing high-speed Internet to an additional 280,000 homes in rural and remote regions of the country. Starting today, eligible Internet service providers (ISP) can apply for funding to extend or enhance service to areas in need across the country. Connecting Canadians will provide incentives for the private sector to build and extend digital infrastructure in rural areas of the country.
Interested ISPs should review the application tool kit found on the Connecting Canadians website for help with their application. ISPs are asked to propose projects in areas where they can provide services to households that currently do not have Internet access or have slow access.
For Canadians who live in communities with slow or no Internet, access to high-speed broadband will lead to new economic opportunities and the creation of new jobs, products and services.
Jake Enwright
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Industry
613-995-9001
Media Relations
Industry Canada
613-943-2502
media-relations@ic.gc.ca