The Broadband for Rural Nova Scotia initiative will deliver high speed access to the Internet to 100 per cent of Nova Scotians. When the initiative is completed at the end of 2009, the entire province will have high-speed Internet access, making Nova Scotia one of the most connected jurisdictions in Canada and in North America. This will give our schools, businesses and families the opportunity to connect and compete worldwide.

• Access to high speed is critical for businesses to compete internationally and find new markets around the world
• Access to high speed is critical for the future of Nova Scotia's diverse communities, regardless of where they are located in the province
• Access to high speed is critical for students who want to complete online research or studies
• Access to high speed is critical for eGovernment services developed to serve Nova Scotians across the province

To achieve this vision, EastLink, Seaside Communications and OmniGlobe Networks have been awarded contracts to bring high-speed Internet to unserved areas of rural Nova Scotia.

This website contains up to date information on the Broadband for Rural Nova Scotia initiative and provides links to a wide range of local, Canadian and international websites that may be of interest to families and students, to communities, and to businesses planning a high speed future.

The $75-million broadband initiative is being cost shared by the provincial and federal governments and the successful service providers. The provincial contribution is $19.6 million. The federal contribution is a maximum of $14.5 million under the Building Canada infrastructure plan. The shared cost to the companies will be $41.4 million.

Project Updates

January 5, 2009
As we begin a New Year, Nova Scotia Economic Development (now the Department of Economic and Rural Development) and the Broadband for Rural Nova Scotia (BRNS) team would like to thank you for your enquiries, interest and encouragement throughout 2008. More»

News Releases

Premier Announces High-speed Connections in Cape Breton
Premier Rodney MacDonald joined staff and residents of L'Arche Cape Breton today, Sept. 29, to celebrate their high-speed connection to the Internet. More»

Province Awards Contract for HRM Broadband Provider
Every resident of Halifax Regional Municipality will have access to high-speed Internet service as a result of a $1 million contract announced by the province today, Aug. 13. More»