Connecting Citizens Grant Program

The Connecting Citizens Grant Program is a $5.2 million, multi-year grant program. It helps to pay for infrastructure required to deliver Internet connectivity to homes and businesses in rural and remote areas of British Columbia.

The first year of this program (ending March 31, 2009) will see $2.2 million in grants dispersed to support B.C. community connectivity. Network BC will grant up to $50,000 per community to organizations and/or businesses that can demonstrate an ability to expand Internet service to more British Columbians in rural and remote areas.

This program is the latest in a series of initiatives to Bridge the Digital Divide in B.C.

Application Process
Any communities applying for the Grant are required to complete the attached Connecting Citizens Grant application form, describing how they plan to use the funding to successfully extend broadband coverage to their community. Applications will be evaluated by an adjudication committee and all applicants will be notified of the results.

Eligible Applicants
An eligible applicant can be a for-profit or a not-for-for profit organization. Examples include: local and regional Internet service providers; community broadband networks; local governments such as regional districts; and, economic development organizations.

Funding:
* A one-time Grant per community up to $50,000.
* Only one application will be supported for connectivity in each community.
* Funding cannot be applied to projects already completed.

Timing:
* Grants will be provided by March 31, 2009.
* Connectivity projects must be completed by March 31, 2010.

Deadlines:
Applications must be received no later than November 7, 2008.

View the Application Form.

Submit completed application to:

Attention: Connecting Citizens Grant Program
Fax: 250 952-0254
Mail: PO Box 9412 Stn Prov Govt
Victoria BC V8W 9V1
E-mail: digitaldivide@gov.bc.ca