Tbaytel released its 2025 Report to the Community, with its theme, Investing in the Everyday.
The report highlights Tbaytel’s 2025 achievements and financial performance, which returned $23.1 million in dividends to the City of Thunder Bay. These funds help reduce local property tax bills by approximately 8.1 per cent. Also, throughout the year, the company dedicated more than $532,000 to strategic partnerships and community-focused projects.
Paul Norris, Tbaytel president and chief executive officer, said their sponsorships and partnerships are focused on supporting local events, essential services, and organizations that enhance the quality of life for residents.
“These investments included a $200,000 contribution to the Regional Food Distribution Association (RFDA) Building Hope campaign for a new, expanded facility, which will greatly increase their capacity to efficiently receive, store, and distribute food, meeting rising demand and bolstering food security for vulnerable populations across our entire region,” Norris said. “Our acquisition of naming rights for the Tbaytel Multiplex was also a priority, as it is a long-term, strategic investment that directly reinforces our commitment to the community’s well-being and future.”
The report covers Tbaytel’s technological milestones in 2025, including the expansion of its state-of-the-art 5G wireless network with 12 new tower sites and upgrades to five existing towers.
Norris says Tbaytel introduced a five-gigabits-per-second fibre internet service, claiming it as the fastest offering in Thunder Bay. Work also continued to bring fibre to rural areas outside of Thunder Bay. As a result of these infrastructure investments, Tbaytel received its highest net promoter score to date, spotlighting strong customer loyalty and support.
And Tbaytel strives to support local businesses with new technology.
“We are committed to the long-term success of our economy by ensuring that our businesses never have to choose between local and cutting-edge. By continuously investing in our network and evolving our suite of products, we provide the operational efficiency and scalability that local owners need to compete and grow,” he said.
“Furthermore, our public Wi-Fi initiative helps transform local shops into connected hubs, driving new foot traffic and fostering a more digitally inclusive community for everyone.”
Norris also pointed out that Tbaytel is strategically aligned with the City of Thunder Bay’s smart growth action plan, specifically through investments in 5G, fibre, and public WiFi under the “attraction” pillar. He said this ensures that as Tbaytel’s technology evolves, so does the strength and vibrance of the region.
