Nova Scotia Becomes First Province to Proclaim Digital Inclusion Week
Nova Scotia is making history as the first province in Canada to formally recognize Digital Inclusion Week.
From October 6–10, 2025, the province will mark the week with a focus on equitable access to technology, internet connectivity, and digital skills for all residents.
The official proclamation will be made by Jill Balser, Minister of Cyber Security and Digital Solutions, during the opening of GEO Forum 2025 on Wednesday, October 8.
The hybrid event brings together leaders from government, business, and community to explore solutions for advancing digital equity.
For Bonnie Ste-Croix, CEO of GEO Nova Scotia, the proclamation reflects a crucial step forward.
In today’s world, the need to be online is undeniable, yet, too many Nova Scotians still face barriers that keep them from fully participating in our digital society. Digital Inclusion Week shines a spotlight on this reality, and on the collaborative work being done across government, community, and the private sector to close that gap.” said Ste-Croix.
The announcement comes at a time when an estimated 20,000 Nova Scotians cannot access the internet at home because of cost, with many more facing challenges affording devices or gaining basic digital skills. Advocates say Digital Inclusion Week will shine a light on those realities while underscoring the need for collective solutions.
The initiative has also been welcomed by the tech sector, which sees digital inclusion as essential to both social and economic progress.
“Nova Scotia punches above its weight in the digital sector, to the benefit of individuals, families, communities, and the entire provincial economy.” said Owen Sagness, CEO of Digital Nova Scotia.
Digital Inclusion Week is another example of Nova Scotia’s leadership, setting an example for others to follow and building on the inspirational partnerships that have developed between our sectors to make digital inclusion a reality for everyone.”
Minister Balser said the proclamation acknowledges both the challenges and progress made so far.
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.”
The week also coincides with Cybersecurity Awareness Month, underscoring the importance of safe, secure, and equitable digital participation.
Beyond the proclamation and GEO Forum 2025, GEO Nova Scotia will also host the 2nd Annual Nova Scotia Digital Inclusion Awards on October 8, recognizing champions of digital inclusion across the public, private, and community sectors.
“GEO Nova Scotia exists to do exactly what our name stands for: Getting Everyone Online,” said Karn Nichols, Board Co-chair at GEO Nova Scotia.
“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.”
Read the full release HERE.