Budget Bulletin: Connected Communities

FINANCE: Budget Bulletin: Connected Communities

Nova Scotia will become a world leader in information technology. The province's goal is to make Nova Scotia the most connected jurisdiction in North America.

A technology-fuelled economy is important for growth and building a better future for Nova Scotians. The province will ensure 100 per cent of Nova Scotians are able to access broadband connectivity by the end of 2009. It is examining the best ways to achieve commercially viable and sustainable broadband access. Up to $10 million will be spent this year, in partnership with private sector service providers, to deliver infrastructure to the first set of unserved areas in the province. The lessons learned from the initiative will be used to build a plan to roll out broadband to other unserved areas of the province.

The province will invest in small- and medium-sized businesses, particularly in rural Nova Scotia, through the provision of financial assistance to support investments in new applications, technologies and equipment, and by expanding the I-3 program administered through InNOVAcorp. These investments total $1.2 million.

Note: Note: For further 2007-08 budget information, see the Department of Finance website at www.gov.ns.ca/finance.