WAKEFIELD, QC – The Federal Government will invest $500 million by 2021 to bring access to high-speed Internet to 300 rural and remote communities across Canada under a new program known as Connect to Innovate.
Developed in consultation with stakeholders and Internet service providers, Connect to Innovate will focus primarily on the construction of new backbone infrastructure to connect institutions like schools, hospitals, First Nation band offices and libraries, as well as to improve residential, business and mobile services, reads Thursday’s announcement. A portion of the program's funding will include backbone upgrades, as well as last-mile infrastructure, to bring Internet access to households and businesses that do not have speeds of at least 5 Mbps.
The deadline for applications for project funding is March 13, 2017.
"Our government is committed to ensuring that all Canadians, businesses and institutions have access to the opportunities and tools they need to grow and succeed in Canada and abroad”, said Innovation, Science and Economic Development minister Navdeep Bains, in a statement. “By increasing access to high-speed Internet, the Connect to Innovate program enhances our rural and remote communities' ability to innovate, participate in the digital economy and create jobs for middle-class families. This investment will improve the daily lives of Canadians."
