Canadians understand the importance of building up communities and have always invested in ways to better connect with each other—from the St. Lawrence Seaway to the national railroad system to the Trans-Canada Highway. Those investments now need to reflect the increasingly digital world.

“Broadband Internet service is key for the prosperity of rural Canadian communities. This project will allow these two communities in the Regional Municipality of York to be better connected to friends, family and businesses, as well as have better access to online services and tools. By providing better broadband connections, we are increasing the potential for economic growth and diversification and enhancing the quality of life in small and rural communities.”
– The Honourable Bernadette Jordan, Minister of Rural Economic Development

“On behalf of York Regional Council, I extend our sincere appreciation to the federal government for this significant investment. While we have the second largest information and communications technology sector in Canada, there are still some areas in our extensive rural communities that are underserved by broadband. Improving and expanding connectivity remains a long-standing priority, and by continuing to push for improved broadband, we are supporting the Region’s commitment to supporting innovation and economic development in the agricultural sector and rural communities.”
– Wayne Emmerson, Chairman and CEO, Regional Municipality of York

“We are grateful to be part of this initiative that will greatly impact our First Nation businesses by being connected to high-speed Internet that will improve our day-to-day services. Our medical health building and Waabgon school will have greater ability to provide support to our members during the difficult winter season when access to the First Nation is limited. Our economy will greatly improve by allowing us to communicate at greater speeds and conduct First Nation business in a timely manner. I would like to thank my staff and acknowledge Beverly Warren, who has been working diligently on this project with our partners, and thank the federal government for its support through Connect to Innovate. Chi miigwetch.”
– Chief Donna Big Canoe, Chippewas of Georgina Island First Nation

• To date, under Connect to Innovate, the Government of Canada has announced funding to improve Internet connectivity in more than 900 rural and remote communities—including 190 Indigenous communities—which is more than triple the 300 communities initially targeted.

• Budget 2019 committed up to $1.7 billion over 13 years, starting in 2019–20, to establish a new national high-speed Internet program, the Universal Broadband Fund. 

• As part of that commitment, the Government will top up the Connect to Innovate program and secure new, advanced, low-latency low Earth orbit satellite capacity. These satellites will help bring reliable high-speed Internet access to even the most challenging areas.

• Connect to Innovate is part of the Government of Canada’s Innovation and Skills Plan, a multi-year strategy to create well-paying jobs for the middle class.

Associated links

• Budget Plan 2019
• Connect to Innovate
• Announced Connect to Innovate projects
• Investing in Canada: Canada’s Long-Term Infrastructure Plan
• Investing in Canada Plan Project Map

Émilie Simard
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Rural Economic Development
613-864-7690
emilie.simard3@canada.ca

Media Relations
Infrastructure Canada
613-960-9251
1-877-250-7154 (toll-free)
infc.media.infc@canada.ca

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