The National Telecommunications Regulatory Commission (NTRC) and telecommunications provider FLOW have officially signed a contract to launch the Digital, Resilience, Inclusion, Virtual Access and Empowerment (DRIVE) Project under the Universal Service Fund (USF).
The agreement was signed on May 27 and marks the start of a five-year initiative aimed at expanding digital access and strengthening technological resilience across St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
The DRIVE Project is valued at approximately EC$1.63 million and will be financed through the Universal Service Fund, which operates under the NTRC’s Telecommunications Act.
According to the NTRC, the project is designed to improve internet connectivity and digital opportunities for schools, households, non-governmental organizations, and institutions serving elderly persons and individuals living with disabilities.
The initiative will also focus on improving disaster preparedness by supplying emergency power and communications equipment to vulnerable communities and institutions.
One of the key features of the programme includes a subsidized internet package aimed at vulnerable households. Officials say qualifying participants will be able to access internet service for EC$20 per month, with the package also including a laptop computer and access to professional development training.
The project will additionally support upgrades to connectivity infrastructure, including broadband internet access, computers, and audiovisual technology.
FLOW was awarded the contract to provide the services associated with the programme.
The contract signing ceremony was attended by NTRC Chairman Benjamin Exeter, Universal Service Fund Administrator Shadeja Gordon, FLOW Country Manager Andrea Liverpool, and other representatives from Liberty Business and FLOW’s regional technology operations team.
Officials say the DRIVE Project forms part of wider efforts to improve digital inclusion, expand access to technology, and strengthen national resilience in an increasingly digital environment.