Nova Scotia to Become First Province to Proclaim Digital Inclusion Week

Nova Scotia to Become First Province to Proclaim Digital Inclusion Week Halifax, NS – GEO Nova Scotia and Digital Nova Scotia are thrilled that the Province of Nova Scotia is proclaiming October 6th to 10th, 2025 as Digital Inclusion Week, making Nova Scotia the first province to formally recognize the critical importance of equitable access to technology, internet connectivity, and digital skills for all residents. “Digital Inclusion is a Super Social Determinant of Health that provides people with access to opportunities in every facet of their lives,” said Bonnie Ste-Croix, CEO, GEO Nova Scotia. “From health care, housing and emergency notifications, to education, employment and social connections. By recognizing Digital Inclusion Week, Nova Scotia is sending a clear message: no one can be left behind in our increasingly digital world.” While many essential services are now delivered online some Nova Scotians still lack access to digital technology and digital skills. Digital Inclusion Week underscores the province’s partnership in helping to break down these barriers so all Nova Scotians can thrive. Digital Nova Scotia, representing the province’s tech sector, also welcomed the proclamation, highlighting how a digitally included population strengthens innovation and the broader digital economy. “Digital inclusion creates opportunities for all Nova Scotians while also supporting the growth of our tech ecosystem,” said Owen Sagness, CEO, Digital Nova Scotia. “While GEO Nova Scotia drives on access for all, the tech sector plays a complementary role, helping ensure that inclusion extends into innovation, jobs, and economic participation.” The week coincides with Cybersecurity Awareness Month, highlighting the importance of safe, secure, and equitable digital participation for all. Minister for Cyber Security and Digital Solutions, Jill Balser is scheduled to make the proclamation during the opening of GEO Forum 2025 on Wednesday, October 8th. The GEO Forum is a free, one-day hybrid event bringing together leaders from government, business, and community for panels, workshops, and discussions on best practices, innovative programs, and collaborative solutions to advance digital equity. GEO Nova Scotia is also hosting the 2nd Annual Nova Scotia Digital Inclusion Awards on October 8, celebrating champions of digital inclusion across public, private, and community sectors.

ADDITIONAL QUOTES:

In today’s world, the need to be online is undeniable, yet, many Nova Scotians still face barriers that keep them from fully participating in digital society. Digital Inclusion Week shines a spotlight on this reality, while also highlighting the amazing collaborative work being done across government, community, and the private sector to close that gap. - Bonnie Ste-Croix, CEO, GEO Nova Scotia Digital equity is not just a technology issue—it’s about fairness, opportunity, and ensuring every Nova Scotian can thrive. By proclaiming Digital Inclusion Week, we’re acknowledging the challenges and celebrating the progress being made. We are proud to work with organizations like GEO Nova Scotia to ensure that all Nova Scotians have the tools and skills they need to succeed in today’s digital world. The Honourable Jill Balser, Minister of Cyber Security and Digital Solutions Nova Scotia’s tech sector is more than an industry, it’s a catalyst for opportunity. Digital Inclusion Week highlights the province’s leadership and the powerful collaboration across sectors, showing how innovation and partnership are helping make digital inclusion a reality for everyone. - Owen Sagnass, CEO, Digital Nova Scotia GEO Nova Scotia exists to do exactly what our name stands for: Getting Everyone Online. This proclamation is a recognition of how far we’ve come and how far we still need to go. Together, we can ensure that every Nova Scotian has the access, tools, and skills to succeed in a digital world. - Karn Nichols, Board Co-chair, GEO Nova Scotia

Media Contacts:

Eilish Bonang-Smith Role: Communications Lead, GEO Nova Scotia Email: comms@geonovascotia.ca Phone: 902-880-0852 Caitlin Patterson Role: Director, Marketing & Comms, Digital NS Email: Caitlin@digitalnovascotia.com Phone: 902-401-6699