Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada announced Thursday that it will improve “mobile connectivity” in rural Quebec, thanks to an investment of nearly $1 million.
Up to $939,035 in federal funding will be awarded to Bell to improve mobile connectivity in the Atikamekw First Nations community of Manawan, says ISED. The federal government says it has invested more than $731 million to improve connectivity in Quebec since 2015.
“We need to close the connectivity gap and ensure that every nook and cranny of Quebec has access to reliable mobile service. Today’s announcement of funding of up to $939,035 to improve mobile connectivity in the Atikamekw de Manawan First Nation is great news for Quebecers. Investments like these improve safety and keep us connected to our loved ones,” said Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development.
The federal Universal Broadband Fund (UBF), with its $2.75 billion investment, includes $50 million for mobile internet projects aimed at benefiting Indigenous peoples, the government said.
The Government of Canada has a national goal of connecting 98% of Canadians by 2026 and 100% by 2030, with Internet speeds of at least 50 Mbps download and 10 Mbps upload.