The Provincial Government will spend $120 million dollars per year, over the next ten years in providing broadband access across the Province.

The public sector is a lucrative market, and the Government of British Columbia has expressed interest in supporting local technology companies The provincial government alone has budgeted $350 million is spent on IT products and services each year.1 This does not include spending by municipal governments

Wireless products and services are being used in a number of ways. For example:

• Schools have made wireless laptops available to students instead of having dedicated labs.
• Leaders in government are using Blackberry to connect to their email.
• Wireless technologies are being sourced to bring high speed access over the ‘last mile’ to small communities throughout the province.

However, it is often difficult for both suppliers and the government to find the right solution for technology needs. Local wireless companies often find the process of selling to the government confusing and arduous, while the government has difficulty sourcing local talent. WINBC is committed to assisting its members and the Government in doing business together.

• WINBC has resources to assist out members in navigating public sector maze, and to assist the Government in sourcing local wireless technology solutions.
• WINBC can provide both Project Management and Business Development support.
• WINBC has the resources to connect wireless companies.
• Use the company directory to look up potential partners.
• Attend WINBC events to meet both wireless vendors and customers.
• Leverage WINBC’s relationship with BCTIA and Leading Edge and others to access other technical companies and resources.

Related:

 Solutions

Internet Resources for Further Information

Footnotes:

1. Premier’s Technology Council - 3rd Report, September 23, 2002.