Comparing Canada’s Broadband Programs: Universal Broadband Fund vs. Connect to Innovate
In 2025, having reliable, high-speed internet isn’t a luxury — it’s a necessity. From remote work and online learning to healthcare and local business growth, communities need strong digital infrastructure to thrive.
To help close the connectivity gap in rural and remote parts of the country, the federal government has launched several programs over the years. Two of the most significant are the Universal Broadband Fund (UBF) and Connect to Innovate (CTI). While they share a common goal — improving internet access — they differ in how they work, who they serve, and what kinds of projects they support.
This guide breaks down the differences between UBF and CTI to help you understand which program applies to your community or organization.
Overview: Two Programs, One Goal
1. Universal Broadband Fund (UBF)
Launched in 2020 and expanded in 2021, UBF is Canada’s flagship initiative for delivering high-speed internet across the country — especially in underserved and remote areas.
Goals:
- Connect at least 98% of Canadians to high-speed internet (50/10 Mbps or better) by 2026
- Focus on ready-to-go broadband projects
- Bridge the urban-rural digital divide
Funding Highlights:
- Over $3.2 billion in total funding
- Up to 90% coverage for projects in Indigenous or remote communities
- Includes a Rapid Response Stream for time-sensitive builds
2. Connect to Innovate (CTI)
Launched earlier in 2016, CTI focused on building the “middle-mile” — the critical backbone infrastructure that connects rural communities to major internet networks.
Goals:
- Expand backbone fiber infrastructure
- Serve institutions like schools, libraries, and hospitals
- Lay the foundation for last-mile connections to homes and businesses
Funding Highlights:
- $585 million in federal investment
- Primarily funded infrastructure between and within remote communities
- No longer accepting new applications (wrapped in 2021), but many projects are still ongoing
UBF vs. CTI: Quick Comparison
| Feature | Universal Broadband Fund (UBF) | Connect to Innovate (CTI) |
|---|---|---|
| Launch Year | 2020 | 2016 |
| Funding Total | $3.2+ billion | $585 million |
| Focus | Last-mile & backbone connections | Backbone (middle-mile) only |
| Target Areas | Rural, remote, Indigenous communities | Remote and underserved areas |
| Funding Coverage | Up to 90% | Typically up to 75% |
| Rapid Stream? | Yes | No |
| Active in 2025? | Yes, accepting applications | No new intakes |
| Example Projects | Fiber to home, wireless towers | Fiber to institutions (schools, clinics) |
Key Differences in Plain Terms
1. Type of Infrastructure Funded
- UBF helps pay for both backbone (middle-mile) and last-mile (direct to homes or businesses) connections.
- CTI was mainly focused on backbone infrastructure, not individual household connections.
2. Status in 2025
- UBF is fully active and still accepting applications.
- CTI is closed to new applicants, though some previously funded projects are still being built.
3. Scope and Impact
- UBF has a much broader mandate and budget.
- CTI was more limited in scope but played an important foundational role.
Who Should Apply for UBF?
| Applicant Type | Recommended Program |
|---|---|
| Internet Service Providers (ISPs) | UBF |
| Municipal Governments | UBF |
| Indigenous Communities | UBF |
| Infrastructure Builders (with CTI legacy projects) | CTI (if already funded) |
| Nonprofits or Community Groups | UBF |
Real-World Examples
- UBF Project: A township in Northern Ontario gets funding to install new high-speed wireless towers, bringing reliable internet to 500 households.
- CTI Project: Fiber is laid between five rural communities and their public schools, giving ISPs a backbone network to connect homes later on.
FAQs: Universal Broadband Fund vs. Connect to Innovate
1. Is Connect to Innovate still open for new applications?
No. CTI closed to new applications in 2021, though some approved projects are still underway.
2. Can I apply to both programs?
Not anymore. UBF is now the primary federal program for broadband expansion.
3. Is there a deadline to apply for UBF in 2025?
No fixed deadline. UBF accepts applications on a rolling basis depending on the funding stream.
4. What internet speed must projects deliver?
Projects must aim to deliver at least 50 Mbps download and 10 Mbps upload speeds to qualify.
5. Are these grants available to individuals?
No. These programs are for ISPs, municipalities, Indigenous groups, and organizations — not individuals or homeowners.
Final Thoughts
Both UBF and CTI were created to address the same core issue: Canada’s rural and remote communities need better internet access. CTI focused on laying the foundation, while UBF is building on that momentum — and doing it at a much larger scale.
If you’re with a municipality, internet provider, or Indigenous organization looking to expand connectivity in 2025, the Universal Broadband Fund is your go-to option for federal support.
Ready to get connected? Now’s the time to act.
