Access to broadband is essential for living, working and competing in a digital world and investments in broadband have a vital role to play, both in moving the global economy back onto a higher growth trajectory, and in generating sustainable social and economic growth.
For Canadians in rural and northern regions in particular, access to high-speed Internet can unlock tremendous economic potential, leading to the creation of new jobs, products and businesses that will benefit Canadian middle-class families.
The Canadian Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development has announced the launch of Connect to Innovate, a new program that aims to bring broadband Internet access to 300 rural and remote communities across Canada. The program will invest up to $500 million by 2021 to ensure that rural and remote communities across Canada are well positioned to take advantage of the opportunities afforded by the digital age.