The Ontario government is taking decisive action to protect postsecondary students’ access to the education they need to launch successful careers by 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 to build long-term sustainability in the sector.
“Through the Ontario government’s continued investment in research and innovation, we are proud to deliver new funding through MCURES to support two outstanding institutions, both with campus’s right here in Simcoe North,” said Jill Dunlop, MPP for Simcoe North. “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.”
This investment will ensure that Lakehead University and Georgian College can keep preparing students for rewarding, in-demand careers that meet labour market demands for generations to come. Operating funding 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 model also includes specialized funding for 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 Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security. “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.”
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 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.
“It is more important than ever that we manage Ontario’s finances responsibly – to build a more resilient and self-reliant economy to secure long-term prosperity,” said Peter Bethlenfalvy, Minister of Finance. “Postsecondary education is one of Ontario’s most important long-term investments – and this announcement helps ensure that investment remains strong, responsible and sustainable for years to come.”
“The investment from the Ontario government is recognition of the incredibly important role universities play in supporting and driving the economy throughout the province, in driving research and innovation, and in educating the workers with essential skills that will support economic growth,” said Dr. Gillian Siddall, President and Vice-Chancellor of Lakehead University. “The dedicated funding for small, rural, and northern institutions is especially significant for Lakehead University, reflecting that a strong Ontario requires strong regional universities. We welcome the province’s recognition of the distinct and important role we play in the economic, social, cultural and environmental well-being of Simcoe County and northwestern Ontario.”
“This announcement represents an average annual increase of $15.8 million to the college’s overall operating grant. The new provincial funding is a much-needed boost for Georgian College, and we’re grateful for this strong show of support for our students and the communities we serve. It represents meaningful progress toward a more sustainable college system. We will continue to maximize every dollar and make prudent, strategic decisions to keep Georgian on a sustainable path – ensuring we can deliver high‐quality education and support local employers and community needs effectively for generations to come,” said Kevin Weaver, President and CEO of Georgian College.
This historic funding will protect student access to the education they need to land rewarding, in-demand careers that strengthen communities across the province.