Current status: Closed
This consultation ran from December 15, 2025, to February 20, 2026
About the consultation
Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) is developing a Rural Development Action Plan. This consultation will support the Government of Canada's efforts to reflect the needs and priorities of rural communities across Canada.
Your feedback will help:
- Inform federal policies and programs that support the needs and opportunities of people living in rural Canada—now and in the future
- Shape new tools that help government include rural perspectives in decision-making
- Build a stronger, more resilient future for rural Canada
Key questions
Your responses to the following questions will help shape the Rural Development Action Plan:
- How can federal initiatives be improved to better address the unique challenges and opportunities faced by your rural community?
- What federal, provincial, territorial, or regional programs have worked well in promoting rural development within your region?
- What policy changes or new initiatives would make the biggest difference for the long-term sustainability of your region, and how should we measure their success?
Who is the focus of this consultation
The Government of Canada welcomed anyone with an interest in rural Canada to share their views. This included:
- Individuals living in rural areas
- Rural businesses and organizations
- Indigenous Peoples, communities, and organizations
- Local governments
- Academics and researchers
- Anyone working with or connected to rural communities
Contact us
- Email:
- rural@ised-isde.gc.ca
- Mail:
- Rural Team
Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada
235 Queen Street
Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0H5
Quote
“Rural Canada feeds our country. It also powers it, builds it and connects it. With this consultation, we’re asking Canadians in rural, remote and northern communities to tell us what’s working, what isn’t and where we need to be more flexible so that federal programs actually match rural realities. If we’re serious about building one Canadian economy, then rural Canada has to be at the heart of that plan. That starts with listening.”