Why It's Important
Affordable connectivity and access to appropriate devices are the essential first steps for digital inclusion. Without these foundational elements, community members cannot participate in online education, access telehealth services, apply for jobs, or engage with digital government services. High costs for internet plans and devices create a significant barrier, particularly for low-income families, seniors, and those on fixed incomes. Addressing these affordability issues is a direct economic development strategy; it equips community members with the basic tools they need to build skills and participate in the digital economy. The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) has declared broadband internet a basic service, making affordability a key issue of national importance.
History
For many years, the primary focus of digital equity was on expanding physical internet infrastructure into unserved areas. While this work remains critical, the focus has broadened to include affordability as a major barrier, even in areas where service is available. In response, the Canadian government launched programs like “Connecting Families” in 2018 to provide lower-cost internet for eligible families. Non-profit programs, like Computers for Schools, have been working to provide refurbished devices for decades. The COVID-19 pandemic brought the issue of affordability into sharp focus, as it became clear that households without affordable, reliable internet were cut off from school, work, and essential services, accelerating government and industry efforts to address the problem.
Examples
The Connecting Families initiative, a partnership between the Government of Canada and numerous internet service providers (ISPs), offers $20/month high-speed internet to hundreds of thousands of eligible low-income families and seniors.
TELUS’s Internet for Good program provides low-cost internet and, in some cases, refurbished devices to low-income families, people with disabilities, and youth aging out of care.
Computers for Schools Plus (CFS+) is a national program that has refurbished and distributed over 1.5 million computers to schools, libraries, non-profits, and Indigenous communities across Canada.
Software and Tools
Public Libraries: Nearly every public library in Canada offers free access to computers and high-speed internet, making them a crucial hub for digital access. Some also have Wi-Fi hotspot and laptop lending programs.
The CRTC’s National Broadband Internet Service Availability Map: An online map that allows you to see which ISPs offer service at any location in Canada, which can be used to compare options.
PlanHub.ca: A Canadian website that allows users to compare prices and plans for internet and mobile phone services in their area.
Local Buy-and-Sell Websites (e.g., Facebook Marketplace, Kijiji): These can be a source for finding low-cost, used computers and smartphones, though caution and buyer-awareness are necessary.
The Government of Canada’s Benefits Finder: This tool can help individuals determine if they are eligible for government income supports, which may in turn make them eligible for internet affordability programs.
Local Non-Profit Device Refurbishers: Many cities have local non-profits (like Free Geek in various locations) that repair and sell refurbished computers at a very low cost.
AI Considerations
AI is not a major tool for directly providing affordable access, but it can be used at a policy level to better understand the issue. For example, AI could analyze vast datasets of census information, internet pricing, and service availability to identify the specific regions and demographics most affected by the affordability gap. This could help governments design more targeted and effective subsidy programs. For individuals, AI chatbots can be used as a research assistant to help them compare different internet plans or find information on eligibility for affordability programs, but they should always verify the AI’s output with the official sources.
FAQ
The government determines eligibility (usually based on receiving certain federal income supports) and sends an access code to eligible households. The household can then use that code to sign up for a discounted plan with a participating local internet service provider.
Yes. Reputable refurbishers, like those in the CFS+ network, professionally wipe, repair, and test all computers and typically install a licensed operating system. They are an excellent, low-cost option for most general uses.
The CRTC’s target for “basic service” is 50 Mbps download and 10 Mbps upload. This is generally sufficient for a family to stream video, participate in online learning, and work from home.
This is a common challenge. The primary options are to collectively advocate to the CRTC and your elected officials for pro-competition policies, or to explore the long-term, complex option of building a community-owned network.
Data caps (a limit on how much data you can use per month) can be a hidden cost. When comparing plans, always look for options with unlimited data, especially for families with multiple users.
Pro Tips
Advocate for affordable connectivity and devices by organising bulk purchases or donations of laptops and tablets, applying for subsidies, and negotiating community‑wide service agreements. Support repair and recycling programs to keep devices in circulation, and establish public access points where people without personal devices can get online. These steps help you and your community stay connected.
Checklist
External Resources
The ACORN Institute: ACORN Canada is an advocacy group for low- and moderate-income families, and they are a leading voice in the fight for affordable internet for all.
The Public Interest Advocacy Centre (PIAC): A Canadian non-profit that advocates for consumer interests, including fair pricing and accessibility in telecommunications.
Electronic Recycling Association (ERA): A Canadian non-profit that refurbishes and donates computers to charities and individuals in need.
National Digital Inclusion Alliance (NDIA): While US-based, the NDIA is a leading voice on digital equity and provides a wealth of models and best practices that are highly relevant for Canadian communities.