Research to Better Understand the Experiences of Rural and Northern Communities Across Ontario

Rural communities keep Ontario running. But for too long, the data needed to support them has lagged behind.

The Health, Economic, and Adaptation in Rural Communities (HEAR) Initiative is a long-term research project designed to better understand the experiences of rural and northern communities across Ontario. The HEAR Initiative at the University of Guelph is one of the most ambitious rural research efforts in Ontario's history. Over three survey waves in 2026, 2028, and 2030, researchers will collect data from 200,000 rural households, tracking health, economic well-being, and climate adaption over time.

HEAR collects local, community-level data on health, economic well-being, and climate adaptation to support stronger planning, policy, and decision making.

When rural voices are counted, rural communities get better policy, better funding, better services. If you live, work, or operate in rural Ontario, your experience matters. Every response strengthens the case for communities like ours.

Take the Survey Here!

Rural data is underrepresented at the provincial and national level. This survey is a direct opportunity to change that. The results will be published in a free, open dashboard that communities, organizations, and advocates can use to push for the services and supports rural Ontario deserves.

For more information check out our website https://hearinitiative.ca.

Email us: hear@uoguelph.ca

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