Both the federal and provincial governments announced Tuesday they're spending $180 million to bring ultra-high speed Internet to southwestern Ontario.

Both levels of government will contribute $90 milion toward the cost of about $281 million.

The investment is part of the new Southwestern Integrated Fibre Technology (SWIFT) project, which will expand access to broadband by delivering fibre optic coverage to more than 300 communities, a news release from the province says.

The project will impact about 3.5 million people and spans counties and municipalities across the region, along with Caledon and Niagara.

The province says it will help communities and businesses compete in global markets and attract new jobs. It will also allow individuals to use online resources to gain skills and experience.

The projects will impact both homes and businesses.