High-speed internet is crucial for helping Albertans stay connected with friends and family, access government services and open the door to a wider range of economic and educational opportunities. Alberta’s government is taking steps to ensure more rural communities have access to this basic service. This is a priority for Alberta’s government.
Through a partnership with the federal government and the Universal Broadband fund, 120 more Alberta communities and more than 14,400 households will gain access to faster, more reliable and affordable internet. To help all of these communities achieve better connectivity, the Alberta and federal governments are investing a combined $150 million.
“Reliable internet access is a necessity for our communities to thrive. Over 14,000 households throughout rural Alberta will be able to get access to the high-speed internet services they deserve. I’m proud of our work on the Universal Broadband Fund, and I’m looking forward to seeing these projects get shovels in the ground.”
Nate Glubish, Minister of Technology and Innovation
“I’m happy to see significant investments being made into expanded broadband access in Clearwater County. These projects will connect 2,000 households and make it easier to work, learn, and stay connected in rural Alberta.”
Jason Nixon, Minister of Seniors, Community and Social Services and MLA for Rimbey-Rocky Mountain House-Sundre
“High-speed internet is no longer considered just a luxury. The federal government funding committed today will bring reliable high-speed Internet to over 14,400 underserved homes in 120 communities across Alberta. All communities, large and small, need a reliable connection to grow their potential in this digital world.”
Gudie Hutchings, federal Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
To date, the federal and provincial governments have invested more than $370 million in 51 projects, bringing connectivity to more than 47,000 households across 333 communities in Alberta.
So far, 61 projects have been funded and that funding is part of the $780 million joint commitment between Alberta and the federal government in 2021 to ensure all Albertans have access to high-speed internet.
"These substantial grants from the Government of Canada and the Government of Alberta mark a transformative milestone and partnership with Clearwater County. With enhanced digital infrastructure, we are poised to bring unprecedented opportunities and economic growth to our community, benefiting residents and businesses alike. Together, we are forging a brighter, more connected future."
Michelle Swanson, reeve and Division 7 councillor, Clearwater County
“The RMA is pleased to see more rural communities gain access to high-speed internet through the Universal Broadband Fund (UBF). We continuously advocate for increased provincial and federal government investment in rural connectivity, and today’s announcement represents another step forward in closing the rural connectivity gap. We are looking forward to seeing how this provincial-federal partnership will fund internet access in more rural communities.”
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