LearnLink Projects: BULGARIA

Public Computer and Communication Center (PC3) Project

In Bulgaria, LearnLink implemented the Public Computer and Communication Center (PC3) Project. The PC3 Project was developed within the framework of USAID's Internet for Economic Development (IED) Initiative, and was funded by the USAID Global Bureau (G/HCD) and USAID/Bulgaria.

In partnership with selected Bulgarian entrepreneurs, the PC3 Project established 10 private sector enterprises located in under-served Bulgarian communities of between 5,000 to 30,000 inhabitants.

The pilot PC3 model represented an innovative approach to the use of telecenters designed to provide information and communications technology (ICT) products and services to under-served communities. The model addressed critical sustainability issues faced by the local entrepreneurs, and involved the provision of for-profit and "public good" services within a sound business plan.

A typical PC3 took the form of a locally owned and operated enterprise serving a small town. Formal agreements between LearnLink and each PC3 Operator ensured the fulfillment of contributions and obligations by each party. Each center offered fee-for-use access to Internet and information technology products and services, related training, and business support services.

The PC3s have alleviated many of the location and infrastructure problems faced in the selected communities, particularly with respect to access to information and communication resources, education and training, local competitiveness and employment, and the provision of government and social services. The PC3s have also acted as a catalysts for related spin-off businesses.

An additional component of LearnLink assistance was the distribution and use of pre-paid access cards within each community served by the PC3s. The prepaid access cards were designed to encourage initial usage of centers and create an immediate source of revenue for the PC3 Operators.

The PC3 project also assisted local and national organizations to convert already developed information resources, broadly relevant to the economic and social development of smaller communities, into Bulgarian language computer-based and Internet accessible formats. These resources included training courses, reports, databases, and other materials appropriate for multimedia and Internet distribution in locations represented by PC3s.

For more information, contact ict@aed.org