Broadband Communications North partners on LEO Satellite Internet
Broadband Communications North (BCN) has partnered with ROCK Networks and OneWeb to bring high speed internet to Manto Sipi Cree Nation through a new pilot program. The three organizations will create the new network with OneWeb’s constellation of low-earth-orbit (LEO) satellites and ROCK will integrate it into BCN’s existing network. ROCK will also provide ongoing support.
“With high-speed internet, members of the Manto Sipi Cree Nation will finally have access to vital services that those in urban areas take for granted,” said Jason Neepin, executive director of BCN. “The project will have a monumental impact on the community. Residents will be able to access telemedicine, distance learning, and remote work. Internet access can also improve justice, governance, and economic outcomes in the areas we serve.”
The pilot is the first step in connecting 24 Northern Manitoba First Nations communities in the next five years, with plans to have pilot running by Spring 2023. Read more about BCN and their work in the North.
Bell announces Bell Ventures initiative
Bell announced the launch of its new corporate venture capital initiative, Bell Ventures, on Oct. 25. Bell Ventures is designed to “encourage development of early-stage and growth companies that harness the power of Bell’s networks to drive growth and adoption of advanced technological solutions,” according to the company.
“We’re delighted to introduce Bell Ventures, and support companies that are developing innovative technology solutions that make the most of our 5G and fibre networks. There are many companies in Canada, and around the world, that can benefit from Bell’s investment, expertise and access to technology. As the largest communications company in Canada, we have the opportunity to support Canadian growth and innovation,” said Mirko Bibic, president and CEO, BCE and Bell Canada.
Bell Ventures’ recent investments include AST SpaceMobile, Metaverse Mind Lab, Sanctuary AI, Tiny Mile, and Grandé Studios. The new initiative will be led by Curtis Millen, head of Bell Ventures and senior vice-president, corporate strategy & treasurer, Bell.
Wellington-Altus Financial Inc. partners with Conquest Planning Inc.
Wellington-Altus has joined forces with Conquest Planning Inc. (Conquest), bringing Conquest’s artificial intelligence wealth planning software to the Wellington-Altus team of financial advisors.
“This is an exciting opportunity to partner with a best-in-class platform to support our clients’ evolving wealth planning needs faster than ever,” said Michelle Connolly, Senior Vice-President, Advanced Wealth Planning Group, Wellington-Altus Private Wealth. “The outcome is a solution that delivers personalized information with cross-generational appeal for our clients. It’s the ideal intersection of sophisticated human wealth planning facilitation and powerful technology.”
According to Conquest, its proprietary algorithm uses client-tailored data to deliver ranked strategies from many options, enabling Wellington-Altus advisors to provide faster, more accurate wealth solutions. Conquest was founded in 2018 and works in Canada and the U.K.
“It’s a pleasure to partner with forward-thinking firms like Wellington-Altus Private Wealth. They are forging ahead implementing the next generation of advice delivery, modernizing both their partner and end client experience,” said Stacie Calder, VP sales and marketing at Conquest.
