When the internet was invented in the 1960s, it set our computers free

Instead of individual silos of information, computers could connect and exchange data at an unstoppable rate. They combined forces and became incredible networks of collective knowledge, communication and distribution.

Fast forward. Today everyone is talking about Apple. How theyʼre one of the largest companies in the world. How they continue to release brilliant products and hit home runs, despite our economy. At the crux of whatʼs made Apple succeed: their ability to figure out the next important chapter in tech history. To look into the future, and go there first.

Apple recognized that computers connect via the internet, but itʼs people who want to connect with each other. Humans, not machines. They took this idea, and created person-focussed, easy-to-use computers. Beautiful, portable, top-of-the line technologies that seamlessly extend human thought and conversation. Apple made it easier for us to connect. They set us free from the tech learning curve. Thatʼs why today, thereʼs 103-year-old grandmas using Facebook for iPad. Infants are playing with educational iPhone apps.

First we invented the platform (the internet). Then we perfected user experience (Apple). So whatʼs the next important chapter in tech history? Whatʼs holding us back from even deeper connection?

Internet access

Not everyone has access to the internet, and in certain locations, itʼs impossible to get connected. I think the next chapter in technological history will be free internet access. Internet thatʼs as free-flowing and plentiful as water.

I truly believe we should upgrade Winnipegʼs infrastructure and provide FREE internet, all over the city

For the exact same reason we invented the internet, we need to take the next step. We need to break down the remaining technological boundaries and discover the full potential the internet holds. And why not start here in Winnipeg? This will change everything. This will be bigger than social media. More game changing than eCommerce.

If Winnipeg can look into the future, and lead the charge, our city will be a global player in the next chapter of tech history. Just imagine what it could do for our city. Just look at what San Francisco has been able to do with Stanford and the Silicon Valley. Winnipeg can innovate like Apple. We just need to look into the future, and go there first.

Free internet access will bring infinite opportunities

Opportunities for business, schools and non-profit organizations. If people can assume the internet is everywhere, just think of the innovation that will follow. For your car, your treadmill, your TV, your fridge, your cabinets, your favourite restaurant, the hospital, your doctorʼs office, your supermarket. I could go on forever. Free internet will dramatically change and improve our city, our businesses, and our relationships.

Right here, right now

So letʼs elect leaders who believe in technologyʼs power to put Winnipeg on the map. Letʼs merge our marketing and technology communities. If Apple has taught us anything itʼs that combining these two powerhouses will breed excellence. Letʼs make it free and easy to connect, to collaborate and to do business. Letʼs make it easy for people to innovate, create jobs, give to charities, feed the hungry and rejuvenate our city.

I love my city. I love our people, our culture and I have big dreams for us. I believe in setting goals high because the only limits we have are the ones we put on ourselves.

Do you think Winnipeg is ready to push for free internet access? What needs to be done? Letʼs talk it out in the comments