NEWS RELEASE
ONTARIO GOVERNMENT
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The Ontario government is investing more than $34 million to bring reliable high-speed internet access to more than 3,000 homes and businesses in hard to reach areas across southwestern Ontario.
“Our government knows that high-speed internet access in today’s digital world isn’t just a luxury, it’s a necessity. That is why we are bringing high-speed internet access to every community across Ontario,” said Kinga Surma, Minister of Infrastructure. “Under the leadership of Premier Ford, we are ensuring that the hardest to reach areas of our province have reliable high-speed internet so that everyone can access important information, including vital online health care services, learn from home and stay connected with loved ones.”
In partnership with Southwestern Integrated Fibre Technology (SWIFT), the province is implementing third-party agreements with 12 Internet Service Providers (ISP) to deliver high-speed internet projects to 14 communities and four First Nations communities.
“Our continued partnership with Southwestern Integrated Fibre Technology (SWIFT) is integral to connecting families and businesses throughout rural Ontario,” said Lisa Thompson, Minister of Rural Affairs. “By connecting more than 3000 homes and businesses through this investment, we are one step closer to delivering high-speed internet access to all corners of the province.”
Ontario is investing nearly $4 billion to help bring access to reliable high-speed internet to every community across the province by the end of 2025. This is the largest single investment in high-speed internet, in any province, by any government in Canadian history.
Quick Facts
- In 2023, the governments of Canada and Ontario invested $219 million to bring high-speed internet access to nearly 67,000 homes and businesses in southern Ontario.
- As of August 2024, Ontario has finalized agreements worth approximately $2.5 billion for over 270 projects to enable high-speed internet access and improved cellular connectivity across the province. Over 99,000 homes and business have been connected to high-speed internet to date, and about 450,000 additional premises will be connected by the end of 2025.
- Ontario’s new interactive online map shows where provincially funded high-speed internet projects are planned, currently under way or have been recently completed in communities across the province.
Quotes
"I know first-hand the importance of having access to the tools you need to participate in today’s local economy which includes high-speed internet. Through this agreement with SWIFT, I am proud that we are continuing our support for rural communities."
- Steve Pinsonneault
Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Rural Affairs and MPP for Lambton—Kent—Middlesex
"High-speed internet is a critical part of our everyday lives, whether it is for school or work. Our government will continue to make the investments needed to ensure our rural communities have access to high-speed internet and can participate in our growing economy."
- Matthew Rae
MPP for Perth—Wellington
"Our government continues to deliver on its promise to bring the benefits of high-speed internet to every corner of the province. Our partnership with SWIFT will connect more communities in our region to the high-speed internet they need to grow and thrive."
- Bob Bailey
MPP for Sarnia—Lambton
"For several years, I have been advocating for reliable and affordable high-speed internet for rural Ontario residents. This investment will benefit numerous families and businesses and help to expand and create new opportunities. Our government has made internet expansion a priority and we are getting it done."
- Ernie Hardeman
MPP for Oxford
"Access to reliable, high-speed internet is essential for families and individuals across Ontario. This investment drives economic growth and connects our communities to the world. By expanding our high-speed network, we are investing in a more connected, prosperous, and equitable Ontario."
- Trevor Jones
MPP for Chatham-Kent—Leamington
"Access to high-speed internet is a crucial part of modern life, essential for connecting our communities and driving progress. This investment is a significant step toward closing the digital divide in our rural and small communities. By prioritizing equal access, especially in hard-to-reach areas, the Ontario government is demonstrating a strong commitment to bridging this gap."
- Gary McNamara
Board Chair, Southwestern Integrated Fibre Technology (SWIFT)
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