About the Project
Issues with home internet funding
In 2019, the Government of Canada established the Universal Broadband Fund (UBF) to invest in rural broadband infrastructure. This fund was specifically aimed at helping all Canadians achieve a minimum internet speed of 50 Mbps download / 10 Mbps upload.
To determine what areas were eligible funding, a National Broadband Internet Service Availability Map was created, which compiles data from the CRTC, internet service providers (such as Telus, Bell or Rogers), public sources, and governments. This map indicates where at least one provider offers the minimum threshold speed (50/10 Mbps) to local residents. If an area is marked as having that minimum speed available, it is ineligible for UBF funding.
Communities that feel they are not receiving the minimum home internet speed, and have been rejected for broadband funding, can formally challenge the data in the National Broadband Internet Service Availability Map. However, several communities in Alberta that have submitted these challenges continue to be rejected.
Mapping communities' *actual* home internet speeds
Cybera is undertaking a pilot project to study actual residential broadband speeds in key locations identified by the Government of Alberta. The goal of this project is to investigate the differences between the federal government’s National Broadband Internet Service Availability Map, and the identified local communities’ expressed dissatisfaction with their broadband services.
We will be assessing whether the 50/10 Mbps speeds advertised by local home internet service providers are genuinely being delivered to the residents who have subscribed to those speeds.
The results of this project will give government and community leaders accurate data and methodologies to determine the actual state of broadband access in their region. This data can then be used to make the case for improved broadband funding.
Want to get involved?
Contact info@testmynetwork.ca
Cybera is a trusted not-for-profit agency that is working with the Government of Alberta to understand why so many Albertans are experiencing poor internet speeds, despite service reports that show their area is adequately covered.
For 30 years, Cybera has served as Alberta’s research and education network facilitator, responsible for driving connections, collaborations and skills growth through the use of digital technology. Our vision is to ensure a connected, secure and equitable digital future for every Albertan.