The provincial government recognizes that information technology is a fast-paced industry where change occurs on what seems like a daily basis. To ensure that Prince Edward Island maintains a leading-edge, the provincial government has made a commitment to create an information technology environment on PEI.
In keeping with this commitment, the Computer and Home Internet Purchase Project (CHIPP) was initiated by Enterprise PEI as an incentive to increase computer usage and Internet access for Islanders.
"Computers are becoming an important and indispensable part of our society. Whether we are at home, at work or at school, our daily activities are revolving more and more around our ability to use and to access a computer," said Wes MacAleer, Minister of Economic Development and Tourism. "The CHIPP program offered Islanders the opportunity to increase computer and Internet usage in a place where learning begins -- their own homes."
For three months, November 1997 to February 1998, a rebate equivalent to 10 per cent of eligible costs (up to a maximum of $250) was provided to up to 2,000 Islanders who bought an Internet-ready home computer for non-commercial use from an Island vendor.
Approximately 1250 new computers and Internet packages were purchased and the response for this initiative increased computer and Internet usage by 2.5 per cent on the Island. The program was also well received by retailers and Internet providers across the province.
"I am extremely pleased with the outcome of this program," said Minister MacAleer. "The success of a program like CHIPP increases the awareness and importance of information technology on Prince Edward Island."