Ontario Investing $78.5 million in Canadore College and Nipissing University

May 1, 2026

Province supporting the sector with new funding model to equip postsecondary students in North Bay for rewarding, in-demand careers

NORTH BAY – Vic Fedeli, MPP for Nipissing, announced that the Ontario government is taking decisive action to protect postsecondary students’ access to the education they need to launch successful careers by investing an additional $44.4 million in Canadore College and $34.1 million in Nipissing University over the next four years. 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.

“This historic increase will ensure that Canadore College and Nipissing University can keep preparing students for rewarding, in-demand careers that meet labour market demands for generations to come,” said MPP Vic Fedeli. “Postsecondary education is an important long-term investment we can provide for the next generation of students to help build a stronger Ontario.”

This investment will ensure that Canadore College and Nipissing University 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% 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.

“We are grateful to the Government of Ontario for the additional funding. This investment will support Canadore College and establish a steadier path forward. At Canadore, we are preparing graduates who will form the skilled workforce powering Ontario’s economy for years to come, and we look forward to continuing our partnership with the Government to meet the evolving needs of students, communities, and the economy.” – Dr. Sandra Efu, President and CEO of Canadore College.

“This investment is significant for Nipissing University and for institutions serving Northern and regional communities across Ontario,” said Dr. Kevin Wamsley, President and Vice‑Chancellor, Nipissing University. “By providing targeted support to small, rural, and Northern institutions, the Province is recognizing the unique challenges and opportunities in our regions. This investment will strengthen Nipissing University’s ability to provide equitable access to high‑quality, in-demand programs and to prepare graduates to meet Ontario’s evolving workforce needs.”

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.

This historic funding will protect student access to the education they need to land rewarding, in-demand careers that strengthen communities across the province.

Quick Facts

Since 2024, the government has invested over $2 billion in additional funding for colleges, universities and Indigenous Institutes, which is on top of the $5 billion Ontario invests in the sector every year.
Under the new funding model, base per student funding at colleges and universities will increase by 6% for full-time students and 30% for college part-time students.
The province is making its own administration more efficient by streamlining over 400 transfer payment agreements into 45, five-year Strategic Mandate Agreements with colleges and universities, saving institutions time and money.

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