Faster, More Reliable Internet Coming to Rural Communities Across Canada

OTTAWA, ONTARIO — Twenty-three Internet service providers across Canada are receiving approximately $34.5 million (Canadian) from the government of Canada to increase broadband Internet access for over 65,000 households in rural areas across the country. This investment includes approximately $600,000 that will allow Xplornet Communications to bring improved access to over 7,000 households in the Niagara Region and the counties of Haldimand and Norfolk.

Canadians in all regions of the country need access to reliable, high-speed Internet so that they can fully participate in the digital economy. Broadband gives Canadians access to services like e-health and other government services, and it helps them stay in touch with friends and family across Canada.

The government of British Columbia is also providing approximately $3.4 million in additional support for six of the projects in that province through the Connecting British Columbia program. As well, the government of Ontario is providing $1.4 million in additional support for two of the projects in that province through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation. Lastly, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is providing approximately $51,000 in additional support for the Burgeo project in that province.

Quick Facts

• The $305 million Connecting Canadians program is extending and enhancing broadband services to over 300,000 households across Canada.


• Additionally, through Budget 2016, the Government of Canada will invest $500 million over five years for a new program to extend and enhance broadband service in rural and remote communities.