30 Years of Rural Support and Community Connections

This year marks a major milestone for MCSnet, 30 years of building connections in rural Alberta, not just through internet service, but through deep-rooted community partnerships, support, and investment. From installing high-speed internet in hard-to-reach places to backing organizations, youth scholarships, rodeos, and local tech. MCSnet’s journey has always been about more than just connectivity; it’s about community.

We know what it means to live and work in the countryside, because we do it too. Our story started in 1995 with a simple goal: connect Alberta’s underserved rural communities to fast, reliable internet. But along the way, we discovered something bigger. When you connect people, you can empower businesses, inspire youth, support families, and keep rural life thriving.

It’s this belief that drives every decision we make –  from our community connections program to our scholarship program, investments and local support.

Community Connections: We don’t just serve rural Alberta, we support it.

Through our Community Connections Program, we provide free or discounted internet, sponsorships, and donations to local nonprofits, charities, events, and community groups that are making a real difference. 

Whether it’s a youth centre, public centres, or community festivals, we’re here to support the people and projects that make rural Alberta stronger.

Our Community Support Pillars

We take a strategic and thoughtful approach to community giving. Our support focuses on three key pillars that reflect our roots and values:

• Agriculture: We proudly support events that bring communities together to celebrate the agricultural industry, from local rodeos to ag expos and fairs. These aren’t just events, they’re the heartbeat of rural Alberta.
  
• Youth: Young people are the future of our communities. That’s why we back programs that empower youth aged 15 to 24 through mentorship, education, and life-changing experiences that build confidence and broaden horizons.
  
• Technology: As a tech company, we know the power of innovation. We support projects and events that encourage digital literacy, promote access to online tools, and inspire the next generation of rural tech leaders.

• Learn more about our Community Connections Program

MCSnet Scholarship Program: Fueling Future Technology

Education shouldn’t be limited by geography. That’s why we launched the MCSnet Scholarship Program, offering four $1,000 scholarships every year to graduating Grade 12 students who are pursuing post-secondary studies in computer science or related fields.

Whether it’s a student from Bonnyville studying cybersecurity or someone from Vegreville diving into digital design, we’re proud to help rural youth reach their potential.

•  Learn more and apply here

Supporting Municipalities and Local Economies

When you choose MCSnet, you’re not just choosing a service; you’re supporting a network of rural jobs and partnerships. We employ locals and work with municipalities to bring the internet to places where others won’t. 

Programs like our Municipal Partnerships help bring better broadband to entire towns, fueling local economies and keeping businesses competitive.

• Discover our municipal initiatives

30 Years, and We’re Just Getting Started

Over the past three decades, we’ve seen small towns grow, new generations come online, and entire communities thrive with access to high-speed internet. But no matter how far we’ve come, one thing has never changed, and that is our commitment to rural Alberta.

Thank you for trusting us to be your connection to the world. Here’s to the next 30 years of growth, giving back, and staying connected.