Local communities are being encouraged to work with internet providers (ISP) and apply to Ottawa’s expanded Universal Broadband Fund.

Earlier this week Ottawa announced the fund is being enhanced to $1.75 billion and will help improve high-speed Internet access and mobile connectivity.

On a Zoom session with local leaders and stakeholders Rural Economic Development Minister Maryam Monsef was asked what communities can do to increase their chances of being successful when applying for funding.

“If your community does not have 50/10 (50Mbps download/10Mbps upload) you’re in. Second, if you’re working with an ISP, you’re in. Third, if you’re applying for Rapid Response being able to show that you’re ready to go is a pre-condition for approval,” she says.

Monsef also says they expect to approve Rapid Response Stream applications within a matter of days.

“I have heard from local stakeholders and municipal leaders about the need for faster, reliable high-speed internet access for our riding, especially in our rural areas,” says MP Anthony Rota. “This is great news for our communities in Nipissing-Timiskaming and I encourage local mayors and councillors to apply so that their communities may access the funding and support available through the Universal Broadband Fund.”

Monsef also encouraged the local leaders and stakeholders to submit their applications.

“If Canada is going to remain productive and competitive on the other side of COVID, we have to ramp up and move forward with projects, the ball is now in your court,” she said on the Zoom session.

The application period is now open and community partners are encouraged to apply for funding For more information on how to apply, please visit: https://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/139.nsf/eng/00016.html.

 

(File photo by station staff)

Filed under: Nipissing-Timiskaming MP Anthony Rota, Universal Broadband Fund