What is CAP?

The community Access Program(CAP) is an initiative developed to help provide Canadians with affordable public access to the internet and the skills to use it effectively. Under CAP, public sites such as schools, libraries and community centers act as “on-ramps” to the information highway and provide support on how to make the best use of the internet.

Who is involved in the Community Access Program?

CAP has been designed by Industry Canada to help establish access sites in 5000 rural and remote communities, and up to 5000 access sites in urban communities by march 31st 2001. Affordable access to the information highway means new opportunities, skills and knowledge for all Canadians, regardless of location. Together with provincial and territorial governments, community groups, social agencies, libraries, schools, volunteer groups, and the business community, CAP is helping Canadians take advantage of emerging opportunities in the new global knowledge-based economy.

How the Community Access Program Works

“Access” means access to the Internet through computers. The Government of Canada continues to build normal network of computers placed in convenient public areas such as libraries, schools and community centers in order to provide every Canadian with affordable access. CAP”s goal is to help all 5000 rural and remote communities established affordable public sites for Internet access by march 31, 2001. To date, CAP has helped to connect some 4000 rural and remote community sites.

Internet access means you can:

    Access federal, provincial and municipal information service

    Seek out domestic and international business opportunities

    Develop value-added products and services

    Create local enterprises, jobs, growth and social development

    Learn valuable skill to reap the opportunities provide by the knowledge-based     economy

Each access point is staffed with skilled and knowledgeable personnel who are there to help make your internet experience simple and enjoyable. They’ll answer your questions and guide you every step of the way. Together, you can develop the skill you need to “surf the internet”.

CAP is also integral to Canada’s Youth Employment Strategy. Through Cap’s netcorps Canada, more than 1000 young Canadians have the opportunity to gain highly marketable skills and work experience relating to information technologies. Find out where your local internet access point is or learn how to make your school, library or community center a part of CAP.

Muskoka.com and Vianet are proud supporters of Muskoka CAP