A new study finds that expanding high-speed internet in underserved coastal, rural, and remote communities can benefit local and provincial economies.

The Coastal B.C. Connectivity Benefits study builds on reports for northern and Interior B.C., echoing findings of positive economic impacts for rural communities.

The study shows that increasing connectivity creates better online access to employment opportunities, education, training, and health-care services, and builds stronger, more resilient communities.

The coastal study estimates the Province’s initial investment of $67.4 million in the region will yield seven times the return on investment in the long term, generating a local and provincial economic benefit of $463 million over 20 years. That works out to more than $17,500 per newly connected person.

The Coastal B.C. Connectivity Benefits study is the fourth in a five-part series that examines the economic benefits of provincial connectivity spending in rural areas of B.C.

To learn more, visit Government of British Columbia.