Communities
How will this project benefit my community?
With access to affordable, high-speed connectivity communities will
benefit by having access to many programs, services and opportunities
that are commonly only available in mainstream urban centers. This
includes communication tools, research services and a wide range of
software applications for managing community resources. Individual
community members will enjoy the same benefits, whether it be enrolling
in online distance education or enjoying simple pleasures such as
downloading music or joining a book club.
Communities will be better equipped to develop strategic plans and
community development plans, and to acquire the essential skills and
resources required to bring those plans to fruition.
Can my community apply for funding?
No, this is not a proposal-driven project. The project will be rolled
out in a strategic, systematic manner that collectively maximizes the
benefits for First Nations in BC and thereby also optimizes the spending
of project funds.
What community consultation happened in developing the Pathways to
Technology project?
Community engagement is still to come, and communities will be contacted
at the appropriate time as project implementation rolls out.
Was my community consulted in the development of this project?
Not yet, but communities will be consulted as the planning and design
phase gives way to implementation.
Will this cost me anything?
There will not be any costs to the community for the development of the
infrastructure. However upon completion there will be a monthly cost
associated with accessing the Internet. These charges are yet to be
determined and Internet service will always be optional: people,
businesses and organizations may choose to subscribe or not to
subscribe.
Will jobs be created in my community?
Some job creation is possible. The level of job creation will depend on
the choices made by each community during the community engagement
process.
How does my community get involved in this project?
Individual communities will be engaged at the appropriate point in the
development of the project.
How many First Nations in BC currently have some form of connectivity?
There is not a definitive answer to this question, as it depends on how
one defines "connectivity.” However our work to date indicates that, as
of late 2008, approximately 85 First Nation communities in BC have some
form of Internet connectivity.
