The Ontario government is putting $242 million into upgrading learning facilities at publicly funded colleges and universities to prepare students for in-demand jobs.
The investment will fund maintenance, repairs and modern equipment to strengthen the province’s pipeline of skilled workers, according to a government announcement Monday.
“In the face of economic uncertainty, Ontario’s world-class colleges and universities are integral to building and protecting Ontario’s future workforce,” said Nolan Quinn, Minister of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security.
Funding breakdown
The investment includes $209.3 million through the Facilities Renewal Program for maintenance, repairs and upgrades to existing facilities at colleges and universities.
Colleges will receive $21.6 million through the College Equipment and Renewal Fund to buy and renew instructional equipment and learning resources.
Universities will get $10.8 million through the Training Equipment and Renewal Fund for modern equipment and learning resources.
Matching contributions required
Colleges and universities must make matching contributions as part of the capital infrastructure program.
Institutions can use the funding for major building systems upgrades, heating and ventilating system upgrades, and mechanical and electrical system upgrades. The funds can also buy educational tools such as modernized computers and software, specialized equipment, or machinery for labs, shops and classrooms.
Health care training example
Quinn made the announcement at Queen’s University in Kingston, which is using a portion of its funding to purchase immersive simulation equipment for future health care professionals including family physicians, nurses and paramedics.
Equipment includes high-fidelity mannequins, task trainers and upgraded audio-visual systems to enhance remote access and asynchronous delivery of course content.
“This funding will further strengthen our leadership in experiential learning, medical simulation, and AI-enabled education, equipping students and researchers with the skills, technologies, and insight needed to collaborate effectively and ultimately deliver better patient care,” said Patrick Deane, principal and vice-chancellor at Queen’s University.
Broader context
The investment builds on nearly $1 billion in provincial funding for more than 100,000 additional seats in programs including construction, teaching, nursing and STEM.
The 2025 Ontario Budget allocated over $2 billion in capital grants for colleges and universities to modernize facilities with upgraded technology, critical repairs and improved energy efficiency.
