Federal and provincial government invest $112 million to connect homes across the province to broadband internet

High-speed internet has become an essential part of everyday life for many Canadians. Yet, many people residing in rural, remote and Indigenous communities lack access to fast, reliable and affordable internet.

Alberta’s government says it is committed to full connectivity by 2027 so that everyone can access and connect to opportunities around the world.

Nate Glubish, Minister of Technology and Innovation says, “Improving access to high-speed internet will level the playing field. I’m confident that we are on track to achieving our goal of connecting every single Alberta household to high-speed internet by 2027.”

Through Alberta’s Broadband Strategy, the government says it is investing $390 million over five years in rural broadband service so Albertans can stay connected, improve digital literacy, support their livelihoods and improve access to education, health care and the global marketplace. The Government of Canada has also said it is committed to matching that investment dollar-for-dollar for a total of $780 million to improve access to high-speed internet in rural, remote and Indigenous communities.

“Internet is no longer a luxury – it’s a necessity,” said Gudie Hutchings, federal Minister of Rural Economic Development. “That is why your government made a historic commitment to connect 98 per cent of Canadians to high-speed internet by 2026. This announcement in Siksika Nation marks a significant milestone for internet connectivity in rural Alberta. This investment will provide reliable high-speed internet access to more than 22,500 underserved homes in 166 rural and remote communities in Alberta.”

Chief Ouray Crowfoot of Siksika Nation says, “Access to reliable internet is not just a convenience; it’s a modern-day necessity that connects us all to essential services, education and each other. On Siksika Nation, together with our government partners, we are not just bridging the digital divide; we are building pathways to a healthier, more connected future for all.”

“Alberta Municipalities is pleased to see the provincial and federal governments work together to improve high-speed internet connectivity across Alberta. It is exciting to see something for which we have long advocated is becoming a reality,” said Tyler Gandam, president of Alberta Municipalities

“RMA is pleased that the projects announced today will result in improved connectivity for many rural Albertans,” says Paul McLauchlin, president of Rural Municipalities of Alberta. “This funding is an excellent example of collaboration between federal and provincial levels of government, allowing for investments into broadband projects. The support allocated to Yellowhead County and Red Deer County demonstrates the importance that municipalities place in broadband projects and the potential for rural municipalities to take on a larger role in delivering broadband services in the future. We look forward to the continued partnerships between all levels of government to secure broadband funding for those who are underserved.”

“Access to high-speed internet is essential to build an inclusive economy for Alberta business. Connectivity in rural and remote areas is imperative to enhancing competitiveness and attracting opportunities. This investment will have a positive impact on businesses across our province,” said Shauna Feth, president and chief executive officer of the Alberta Chambers of Commerce.

Since the Canada-Alberta Broadband Partnership Agreement was signed, officials say Alberta and the federal government have so far awarded an estimated $211 million to 26 projects covering more than 33,000 households in 223 communities. The projects and funding have been awarded under the Universal Broadband Fund. Construction is underway on 17 of these projects across the province.

In a statement released following this announcement, Court Ellingson, Alberta NDP Critic for Technology and Innovation said that he believes the UCP government will fall short on its promises.

“Today’s announcement is just another example of a broken promise by the UCP government who are failing miserably in their promise to bring high-speed internet to every Alberta household and business by 2027,” said Ellingson. “In 2022, the UCP launched a partnership with the federal government to bring high-speed internet to every Alberta household and business by 2027. Today’s announcement leaves the government far short of its target. This announced project won’t be complete until 2027 so, it is fair to say, that with only one-third of funding now deployed, the government will not reach 100 per cent coverage. Albertans rely on access to high-speed internet to operate their businesses, access educational and health services, and so much more. High-speed internet is critical to our lives today. Albertans are frustrated that the promise made in 2022 is far behind schedule and leaving so many of them without this critical service. The UCP must do more to prove to Albertans they can deliver on their promise.”

Quick facts

• Communities from the 14 projects announced March 5 that will benefit from improved internet speeds include: