[Invitation] Canada launches public consultation to develop action plan for rural communities

News release

December 15, 2025 – Ottawa, Ontario 

Canada’s shared success depends on the strength of its rural communities. Challenges remain, but the path forward is clear. Creating one Canadian economy and building a better future for all Canadians means turning strategy into action and supporting rural communities in practical, meaningful ways.

Today, the Honourable Buckley Belanger, Secretary of State (Rural Development), announced the launch of a public consultation that will help shape a new action plan for rural Canada. Informed by rural perspectives from coast to coast to coast, the action plan will:

• help make federal initiatives more inclusive for people and communities located in rural Canada
• support the design and implementation of initiatives for rural Canadians
• encourage engagement with rural stakeholders and partners

The consultation will be open from December 15, 2025, to February 6, 2026. It follows a series of rural roundtables with key stakeholders and partners held across Canada over the last six months, with additional roundtables planned for the new year.

The Government of Canada welcomes anyone with an interest in rural Canada to share their views. Your input will ensure the action plan reflects the realities and priorities of rural communities across Canada and supports a stronger, more resilient future for all Canadians. Make your voice heard and help shape the future of rural Canada.

Join in: How to participate

Complete the Rural Development Action Plan online questionnaire. The action plan aims to:

• Inform federal planning to reflect the needs and opportunities of and for people and communities located in rural Canada
• Support the design and implementation of initiatives for rural Canadians
• Encourage engagement with rural stakeholders and partners

To participate by email or mail, use the Contact us section for more information.

Who is the focus of this consultation

The Government of Canada welcomes anyone with an interest in rural Canada to share their views. This includes:

• 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