Community stories

Connectivity is critical for British Columbians regardless of where they live. It has the potential to unlock a new era of economic growth, environmental sustainability, and social well-being in our communities. These success stories showcase rural communities that are building sustainable economies.

View the videos and links to learn how they translate connectivity into direct community well-being benefits.

See what's been done in the following regions:

• Northern Health and Wellness
• Interior B.C.
• Northern B.C. and Central Coast
• Kootenays
• Vancouver Island

Northern Health and Wellness

Improving cellular and internet connectivity to help overcome barriers to health and wellness

Increased connectivity in northern B.C. communities creates better access to health and wellness services and supports doctors in remote communities to access more resources like Real Time Virtual Support. 

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Interior B.C. 

Bringing Communities Together in Yale & Chawathil First Nations

Recent upgrades to fiber optics for these Fraser Valley Nations connect community members and businesses and create more opportunities for people to return home.

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Northern B.C. and Central Coast

 

Connectivity, education, and business innovation

High-speed upgrades support the Haida Nation in doing big business from home and using the Connected North program in schools. 

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Improved connectivity ensures the survival of Granisle, B.C.

Reliable internet and cellular service enable this former mining community to outlive its intended 25-year lifespan and continue to thrive. 

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Leveraging connectivity and digital technologies to realize the benefits of a conservation economy

Stewardship leaders from B.C.’s Central Coast, North Coast, and Haida Gwaii are working together to harness the power of digital to enhance integrated planning initiatives, unleash innovative education networks, and strengthen world-renowned Nation-based Guardian Watchmen programs. 

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Using communication technology to support language and legacy in Heiltsuk (Bella Bella)

As the hub of the central coast, this progressive community is using connectivity infrastructure to bridge their past and future.

Kootenays

Solving connectivity challenges in rural B.C.

Working together with community partners, the Kaslo InfoNet Society is a great example of what is possible when a small number of committed people come together to improve lives in their community through access to internet.

Kaslo: the little town that did – B.C.'s rural digital legend.

Click here for more information.

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Mass Notification System Protects the Public in Nelson, B.C.

Improved connectivity enables the Nelson Fire & Emergency Services team to amalgamate data in real time to share fire warnings with the surrounding remote communities quickly and effectively.

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Attracting Talent in Trail, B.C.

By taking a collaborative approach and redefining economic development as community building, this innovative community is attracting and encouraging entrepreneurs to work in rural British Columbia.

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Vancouver Island 

The Campbell River Advantage

A forward-thinking Vancouver Island community collaborates to build the infrastructure needed to accelerate and grow the local business community to thrive and grow. 

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Improved connectivity brings more jobs to Cumberland, B.C.

Improved digital services help preserve and enhance the qualities that are earning this island community global recognition.

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Improved Internet connection keeps Port Alice, B.C., linked to essential services

A strong connection to the Internet allows the community of Port Alice to virtually connect with almost everything they need. 

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Preparing for Emergencies in Tofino, B.C.

This remote coastal community embraces digital communications to keep the residents and visitors safe through innovative notification and early-warning systems.

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