2004 Budget Update - Changes to the Community Access and SchoolNet Programs

The following information is an update on the Budget 2004 funding allocation for the Community Access and SchoolNet programs. Click here for the full press release.

CAP and SchoolNet programs have new strategic directions, along with lower funding levels through fiscal years 2004-05 and 2005-06. The total of $50 million per year for two years is allocated both for financial contributions, as well as for internal operating and salary costs.

Funding for CAP will be $25 million per year for 2004-05 and 2005-06. Rather than supporting general public access to the Internet, CAP will focus on supporting public access sites that serve communities of greatest need (digital divide communities) as well as on supporting access to on-line government services. This will require both a shift in focus and a downsizing of the network.

Funding for the SchoolNet programs will be $25 million per year for 2004-05 and 2005-06, of which $15 million per year will be directed to First Nations SchoolNet. The new SchoolNet family will include the following programs: First Nations SchoolNet, Computers for Schools, Canada’s Campus Connection/Campus Canada, NetCorps Canada International, as well as related e-learning research and tools/standards development.

Keewaytinook Okimakanak is working with the First Nation SchoolNet program as the Regional Management Organization for Ontario. For more information, contact Brian Beaton at 877-737-KNET (5638).