(Southwestern, ON) September 16, 2024 – SWIFT is pleased to announce that it has been awarded $34 million in funding from the Government of Ontario to support the SWIFT 2.0 project. The project aims to provide 3,133 underserved homes and businesses in hard-to-reach areas throughout Southwestern Ontario with access to high-speed internet service.
“Today’s investment by the Government of Ontario reaffirms the province’s dedication to bridging the digital divide in Southwestern Ontario,” said Gary McNamara, SWIFT Board Chair. “This funding not only supports our mission for universal high-speed internet access but also underscores Ontario’s commitment to equitable digital opportunities in rural communities. Through collaboration with government, private sector partners, and community stakeholders, we’re not just building infrastructure; we’re advancing equity in our region’s digital landscape.”
This significant investment by the Ontario government, announced today in Wellington County by Minister of Infrastructure Kinga Surma, underscores the province’s commitment to addressing broadband gaps in rural communities throughout Southwestern Ontario, including hard-to-reach areas facing connectivity challenges.
“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 making important investments to bring 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.”
By partnering with local and regional service providers, SWIFT aims to accelerate the deployment of broadband infrastructure to locations that have historically struggled with slow speeds and unreliable connections.
The SWIFT 2.0 funding aims to enhance high-speed internet service in areas such as Eelŭnaapéewi Lahkéewiit (Delaware Nation at Moraviantown), along with several other First Nation communities, as well as numerous dispersed and underserved locations across Southwestern Ontario’s rural and small communities.
“Our community is enthusiastic about the new high-speed fibre optic project, which signifies a major leap forward for Eelŭnaapéewi Lahkéewiit and its members,” said Eelŭnaapéewi Lahkéewiit Chief, Justin Logan. “As the project extends to cover the entire community, it will unlock new opportunities and greatly improve connectivity for the Nation. High-speed fibre is vital for bridging gaps, supporting lifelong learning, stimulating small business development, and enhancing health services through digital health and telemedicine, effectively eliminating barriers to access for our members.”
Key project activities such as network design and permitting applications are already well underway, with 9 out of 12 contracts signed with leading local and regional service providers, including:
- BrookeTel
- Cogeco
- Execulink
- First Nations Cable
- GBTel
- HuronTel
- NFTC
- Quadro
- Wightman
SWIFT anticipates that the remaining contracts will be finalized by the end of this month. Construction is expected to commence across the region in the coming weeks, with all projects scheduled for completion and networks in-service by December 2025.
“We’re grateful for the province’s support and look forward to collaborating with local and regional service providers to expedite the deployment of broadband infrastructure, particularly to homes and businesses within our region that may have otherwise struggled to gain access,” said Barry Field, Executive Director, SWIFT. “This initiative will ensure that these hard-to-reach areas receive the connectivity they deserve, further bridging the digital gap in Southwestern Ontario. By doing so, it opens doors to greater online opportunities for residents, leveling the playing field and supporting rural communities in today’s highly connected world.”
To learn more about SWIFT, please visit www.swiftruralbroadband.ca
Quotes:
“Our continued partnership with Southwestern Integrated Fibre Technology (SWIFT) is integral to connecting families and businesses throughout rural Ontario,” said Lisa M. 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.”
“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,” said Steve Pinsonneault, Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Rural Affairs. “Through this agreement with SWIFT, I am proud that we are continuing our support for rural communities.”
“High-speed internet is a critical part of our everyday lives, whether it is for school or work,” said Matthew Rae, MPP for Perth-Wellington. “Our provincial government will continue to make these necessary investments to ensure our rural communities have access to high-speed internet and can participate in our growing economy.”
Quick Facts:
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- The SWIFT 2.0 project aims to provide high-speed internet access to 3,133 underserved homes and businesses in hard-to-reach areas, that have long faced challenges in accessing reliable broadband service.
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- SWIFT 2.0 is on track to deliver tangible results, with 9 out of 12 contracts signed, network design and permitting applications are underway. Construction is expected to commence in several project areas in the coming weeks, with all projects slated for completion by December 2025.
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- SWIFT 2.0 builds on the success of SWIFT 1.0 (2019-2024) which significantly expanded broadband infrastructure across Southwestern Ontario, providing high-speed internet access to nearly 66,000 previously underserved homes and businesses.
About SWIFT:
Southwestern Integrated Fibre Technology (SWIFT) is a non-profit regional broadband project, initiated by the Western Ontario Wardens’ Caucus to increase access to high-speed internet across Southwestern Ontario, Caledon, and the Niagara Region through the expansion of broadband infrastructure.
Media Contact
Melissa O’Brien
[email protected]
Manager, Communications and Stakeholder Relations
Southwestern Integrated Fibre Technology
226.256.1640
