June 16, 2026
Manitoba Government Expands High-Speed Internet Access Across Northern Communities
– – –Agreement Will Bring High Speed Internet to More Than 3,500 Northern Households: Moroz
The Manitoba government is advancing its commitment to expand high‑speed internet access across the province by supporting Valley Fiber in a major expansion of broadband services for underserved northern communities, Innovation and New Technology Minister Mike Moroz and federal Secretary of State for Rural Development Buckley Belanger announced today.
“Reliable high-speed internet is essential infrastructure for education, health care, business and everyday life,” said Moroz. “Too many northern communities have waited far too long for the level of service other Manitobans take for granted. Lessons learned from the previous government’s failures have meant the negotiation of this new conditional right of use agreement, ensuring stronger protections for Manitoba’s interests and improved clarity for all parties.”
“For Canadians, reliable and affordable high-speed internet means opportunity. It means families can stay connected, students can learn, businesses can grow and people can build for the future,” said Belanger. “Complementing the federal Universal Broadband Fund, this partnership will help level the playing field and ensure communities across northern Manitoba have access to the tools they need to succeed.”
Under the agreement, Manitoba Hydro will grant Valley Fiber access to two unused strands of its fibre-optic network for a period of up to 20 years. This access will allow Valley Fiber to fulfil commitments under its Universal Broadband Fund application and deliver high-speed broadband service to communities that currently lack reliable service, the minister noted.
“Valley Fiber is proud to be working with the Manitoba government on this important step to connect communities across our province with high-speed internet, as we build on our existing network and long-term commitment to rural Manitoba,” said Ryan Klassen, CEO, Valley Fiber. “This announcement will connect First Nations and rural Manitoba communities to high-speed internet, allowing them to access essential services like education and health care while accelerating economic development in these regions.”
Strengthening broadband and cellular connectivity, particularly in northern Manitoba, remains a key priority for the Manitoba government’s economic development strategy, the minister noted, adding that access to Manitoba Hydro’s fibre infrastructure will enable Valley Fiber to connect or improve broadband service for more than 3,500 households across 11 communities, at no cost to Manitoba Hydro ratepayers.
- 30 -