The Ontario government is investing $62.1 million in Lakehead University and $63.1 million in Georgian College. This investment is part of the government’s new funding model, which will bring an additional $6.4 billion to universities, colleges and Indigenous institutes across the province. “… we are proud to deliver new funding through the ministry of colleges, universities, research excellence and security (MCURES) to support two outstanding institutions, both with campus’s right here in Simcoe North,” said Simcoe North MPP Jill Dunlop. “This builds on the strong foundation of support already in place, helping to advance critical work that will benefit residents across our region and beyond. By strengthening local capacity for research and collaboration, we are driving real solutions to some of today’s most pressing challenges. I look forward to seeing the lasting impact this investment will have on our community and the people it serves.” Through this new model, the government is investing $1.7 billion to fund 70,000 in-demand seats across the province. This investment will expand enrollment in health care, skilled trades, teaching and STEM programs in an effort to build the highly skilled workforce businesses and communities depend on. A call for proposals to access this funding will launch this spring, with seats opening in fall 2026. Operating funds for the sector will increase by 30 per cent to $7 billion in fall 2026, with a focus on delivering programs that align with student demand as well as regional and provincial labour-market demands. The funding also includes specialized sectors, including small, rural, northern and French institutions, so that students in all corners of the province have access to a world-class education. “In order to protect our province, it is imperative that we continue to train a strong, highly skilled workforce for Ontario for decades to come,” said Nolan Quinn, minister of MCURES. “Through these changes, including $6.4 billion in new funding for the postsecondary sector, our government is not only ensuring the sustainability of our colleges, universities and Indigenous Institutes, but also preparing our graduates with the in-demand skills they need to meaningfully find good-paying, rewarding careers, while continuing to keep education accessible and keep costs down for students and their families.”
