Ontario Invests $242 Million to Prepare College, University Students for In-Demand Jobs

The Ontario government has announced a $242 million investment to upgrade learning facilities at publicly funded colleges and universities, aiming to better prepare students for in-demand and good-paying jobs across the province.

The funding will support modern equipment, improved infrastructure, and state-of-the-art learning spaces so students can gain practical, job-ready skills. The investment is part of the province’s broader plan to strengthen Ontario’s workforce pipeline amid ongoing economic uncertainty.

“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. He added that the funding will ensure students have access to modern tools and facilities needed to succeed in critical industries.

The funding package includes $209.3 million through the Facilities Renewal Program for maintenance, repairs and upgrades, $21.6 million through the College Equipment and Renewal Fund for instructional tools, and $10.8 million through the Training Equipment and Renewal Fund for universities to purchase advanced learning equipment.

Colleges and universities will also provide matching contributions under the capital infrastructure program. The funds can be used for major building system upgrades, heating and ventilation improvements, electrical and mechanical repairs, as well as modern computers, software and specialized lab equipment.

The announcement was made at Queen's University, which plans to use part of its funding to purchase immersive simulation equipment for health-care education. The new tools will support training for future physicians, nurses and paramedics, enhancing hands-on and remote learning opportunities.

The investment builds on record provincial funding for postsecondary education, including nearly $1 billion to create over 100,000 additional seats in high-demand programs such as construction, nursing, teaching and STEM. The province says the goal is to ensure graduates are equipped to lead, innovate and contribute to Ontario’s evolving economy.