CCSA is the voice and vision of Canada's independent cable companies. We connect over 100 independent cable operators and their subscribers with programming and equipment. We ensure clear signals from independent cable operators reach regulators and government. A strong, unified voice has become vital as communications technologies converge.
By working co-operatively, our members from Newfoundland to British Columbia to the Nunavut Territory can remain competitive in all facets of the communications industry and be effectively represented before the CRTC and government. CCSA is a not-for-profit buying group operated by members for members. Our membership has grown from a dozen founding members since CCSA was incorporated in 1993 to more than 100 because we focus on providing independent operators with streamlining, service and savings.
CCSA keeps business simple for independent cable operators at a time when the telecommunications business has never been more complicated. As services multiply and industry giants battle for market dominance, independent cable operators have to be efficient, informed, flexible and proactive. CCSA makes sure the best programming is coming in and the right message is going out. We equip our members to compete in the highly competitive, constantly evolving phone, internet and television markets.
Our bulk purchasing, single point billing and effective representation and lobbying allow independent cable systems to concentrate on what they do best.
The CCSA buys television programming for its members and administers supply contracts with a sophisticated and cost-effective billing system. We have negotiated over 100 contracts with suppliers around the world and manage 130 television-programming services. We also help our member companies launch new programs and services.
As operators expand into digital and high-definition television, high-speed internet, video-on-demand and voice-over-internet, we're there to make the bulk purchases of hardware and services. Our representatives in Ottawa convey our message on both broadcast and telecommunications issues to the CRTC and lobby governments on key issues. Counsel on copyright issues is available on demand.
CCSA members are our shareholders. Our job is to save independent cable operators time and money. We have a small, dedicated staff that provides flexible, cost-effective service out of our office in Quispamsis, New Brunswick.
Our mandate is to keep costs low and members informed about changes in the industry and at government and regulatory levels.