Potential spring launch for Universal Broadband Fund: ISED doc

Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada could launch its $1.7-billion rural broadband fund as early as this spring, according to a briefing note obtained through Access to Information. A note prepared for ISED deputy minister Simon Kennedy ahead of his meeting with CRTC chairman Ian Scott in November outlined that ISED planned to soon begin its “targeted,” informal consultation with stakeholders. “This will help inform the development of the UBF as we work towards a potential launch of the program in spring 2020,” the note read. When asked for additional comment, ISED spokesperson Hans Parmar said in an emailed statement: “In advance of the Universal Broadband Fund launch, the Government of Canada is in the process of engaging with Canadians and stakeholders regarding technical design and delivery aspects. We look forward to launching the Universal Broadband Fund in the coming months.” The meeting was an introductory one between Scott and Kennedy, who was named ISED deputy minister in September, to discuss a number of topics, including getting Scott’s input on the UBF. The CRTC also has its own $750-million rural broadband fund. “This meeting will provide you with an opportunity to determine whether the CRTC has any specific views regarding the design of the UBF,” the partially-redacted note said. “As ISED and the CRTC move forward with the implementation of their respective broadband initiatives, there will be a need to exchange certain broadband project level information in order to ensure that program funds are administered efficiently,” the note read. It said that the two organizations have “engaged at the working level” to share information and expertise in the broadband space, and have been working on ways to minimize the potential for overlap when it comes to the two programs. Suggested speaking points for Kennedy include asking Scott for his views on “the direction the UBF should take -- in terms of both eligible program categories and geographic areas -- so our broadband funds can be complementary and minimize the risk of funding overlapping projects.”

Potential spring launch for Universal Broadband Fund: ISED doc

Brief | February 14, 2020

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Potential spring launch for Universal Broadband Fund: ISED doc

Brief | February 14, 2020

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