(Southwestern Ontario ) May 28, 2025 – Southwestern Integrated Fibre Technology (SWIFT) is pleased to announce that construction is now underway to bring high-speed fibre-optic internet service to Oneida Nation of the Thames. Through the SWIFT 2.0 initiative, SWIFT received $3.9 million in funding from the Ontario government to deliver fast, reliable internet access to more than 560 homes and businesses in the community.
“Improving access to high-speed internet is essential to supporting the long-term success and well-being of communities across the region,” said Barry Field, Executive Director, SWIFT. “This initiative highlights the importance of working together with government, industry, and local partners to deliver modern infrastructure and ensure that residents of Oneida Nation of the Thames have the digital tools they need to connect, grow, and thrive.”
“The Oneida Nation of the Thames is thrilled to see the fibre optics project construction underway. High-speed broadband internet will be a game changer for our Nation as it will open more opportunities and investments for years to come. I would like to say yaw^ko (thank you) to all those who have worked on this project over the years to make this a reality,” said Brandon T. Doxtator, Elected Councillor, Oneida Nation of the Thames.
Execulink Telecom has been awarded funding by SWIFT to install fibre-optic cabling throughout the community, marking a significant step forward in addressing broadband gaps in underserved areas of Southwestern Ontario.
“We are excited to bring our cutting-edge fibre infrastructure directly to homes and businesses in Oneida Nation of the Thames,” said Ian Stevens, CEO at Execulink Telecom. “As we construct fibre in the area, Execulink is committed to delivering exceptional customer service. We believe in fostering strong relationships and ensuring a seamless transition to high-speed internet. Our goal is to empower residents with reliable connectivity that meets the demands of modern life and work, driving growth while fostering innovation for all.”
“Fast, reliable internet access will make a real difference for the 560 homes and businesses in the Oneida Nation of the Thames,” said Sam Oosterhoff, Associate Minister of Energy-Intensive Industries. “It means access to faster, more reliable internet at home and at work — so people can work, study, access services, and participate more fully in today’s digital world. I want to thank the hard-working local crews on the ground for making this a reality.”
Construction is currently underway and is expected to be completed by December 2025. Once finalized, the new infrastructure will significantly enhance access to education, healthcare, economic opportunities, and essential services, creating greater opportunities for local growth and development.
This project is part of SWIFT 2.0, a provincial broadband expansion program funded by the Government of Ontario to deliver high-speed internet to hard-to-reach areas in Southwestern Ontario.
For more information about SWIFT and its broadband expansion projects, visit www.swiftruralbroadband.ca.
About SWIFT:
Southwestern Integrated Fibre Technology (SWIFT) is a non-profit regional initiative, launched by the Western Ontario Wardens’ Caucus, aimed at increasing access to high-speed internet across Southwestern Ontario, Caledon, and the Niagara Region through the expansion of broadband infrastructure.
The SWIFT 2.0 program, funded by the Government of Ontario, builds on SWIFT’s success by delivering high-speed internet to hard-to-reach areas, connecting more homes and businesses to reliable digital services.
Media Contact
Melissa O’Brien
[email protected]
Manager, Communications and Stakeholder Relations
Southwestern Integrated Fibre Technology (SWIFT)
226.256.1640
