Rural Economic Development

From: Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada

Communities in rural, remote, coastal and northern regions of Canada contribute almost 30% of our country's GDP and help drive economic growth.

Our path toward a resilient, prosperous and inclusive Canada includes improvements to every Canadian's quality of life—especially those living in rural, remote and underserved communities.

Whether it's about housing affordability or access to reliable high-speed Internet, the Government of Canada is helping rural and remote communities thrive and achieve sustainable, long-term growth.

Learn about programs that help rural Canadians take advantage of emerging opportunities and address the unique challenges they face.

Connectivity

Access to reliable, affordable high-speed Internet is essential for working, learning, running a business and connecting with loved ones. Learn about the work we're doing to connect all Canadians to high-speed Internet by 2030.

Economic development

Rural and remote communities are essential to the economic resilience of the country. Learn about our efforts to support rural businesses, communities and dynamic local economies.

Housing

Everyone deserves a safe and affordable place to call home, regardless of where they live. Learn about our commitments to make housing more affordable, including in rural communities across Canada.

Skills and labour

In addition to having a higher unemployment rate than the national average, rural Canada also faces significant labour shortages, particularly of skilled workers. Learn about our efforts to attract, retain and grow talent in rural regions.

Transit

Residents of rural communities often depend on private vehicles for transportation and lack access to reliable transit. Learn about our efforts to support innovative local transit solutions in rural Canada.

Rural data

Explore the growing amount of data focused on the vibrant rural communities and regions of Canada, read analyses, and find tools.

Tourism

Tourism is a high-potential industry that helps drive economic growth in rural communities. Learn about the ways we are helping tourism organizations in rural Canada recover and achieve long-term growth.

Learn about the programs, initiatives and strategies that help support your local rural community.

About us

Our goal is to help rural communities across Canada thrive and achieve long-term, sustainable growth. We collaborate closely with local leaders, industries, researchers, other government departments and agencies, and various levels of government to help ensure that federal programs and initiatives better address the unique needs of rural Canadians.