Up to speed
High-speed internet service is a must today. For consumers, it means access to everything from online education to healthcare to shopping. For business, it means the ability to compete at home and abroad by increasing visibility and accessibility, lowering costs and strengthening competitive advantage. Providing Northern businesses with a level playing field is a big reason why the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation has been investing in broadband all across the North. Just one example of how it has helped a company improve sales? Take the Manitoulin Chocolate Works, which makes hand-made, specialty chocolates. Thanks to the availability of broadband, the company was able to take part in a Blue Sky Economic Growth Corporation program to enhance its online presence, including its website and social media. The result? Increased sales at home – and a growing online business shipping chocolates across Canada. Says manager Heather McKeen, “We’ve noticed that a lot of Manitoulin Island is busier. The whole community’s presence has grown.”
Who
Broadband enhancements across the North
Where
Northern Ontario
Program
Strategic Economic Infrastructure Program