Programs

First Nations Connectivity and Capacity Building (Ongoing)

Connectivity to B.C.'s 203 First Nations is a priority for First Nations leadership and the Province. Through the Pathways to Technology project, administered by the All Nations Trust Company, First Nations organizations will lead broadband Internet connectivity efforts to First Nations communities by 2016. The Pathways to Technology project is funded through grants totalling more than $40 million from the provincial and federal governments. For more, visit the project website www.pathwaystotechnology.ca.

Connecting Citizens Grant Program (2008-2011)

Since 2008, the Province has provided $6.83 million through Network BC's Connecting Citizens Grant Program and funded nearly 150 connectivity projects to establish the local infrastructure needed to bring high-speed Internet services to over 210 locations throughout B.C. Round Three (2010/11) was the final round of the program.

National Satellite Initiative Program (Ongoing)

A list of 29 designated remote communities were eligible to purchase commercial satellite service at a reduced rate under a federal/provincial National Satellite Initiative Agreement. For very remote communities, satellite provides the only opportunity for Internet access.

Network BC manages the satellite Agreement with the federal government, and facilitates the initial relationships between the designated community and the various commercial providers involved in providing and maintaining service to the community.

Community Network Infrastructure Grant Program (2005-2006)

This two-year program offered up to $20,000 per community to offset infrastructure costs required to initiate or expand broadband services to institutions, businesses and homes in rural and remote communities. Under this program, 57 communities were able to complete their last mile systems, enabling broadband access for citizens. This program is now complete.

Connecting Communities Program (2005-2006)

Internet service providers can access high-speed Internet gateways (points of presence), at a reduced cost, in 119 designated communities. Reducing the cost of Internet access creates the business case for many small service providers to expand their coverage areas, enabling more citizens to gain digital access to the world. All 119 Internet gateways or points of presence were installed by December 2006.