Ontario Bringing High-Speed Internet Access to Underserved Communities

Province investing $34 million to fill connectivity gaps in southwestern Ontario

September 16, 2024

MINTO — 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.