Province supporting the sector with new funding model to equip postsecondary students for rewarding, in-demand careers
News June 19, 2026
Peterborough— The Ontario government is taking decisive action to protect postsecondary students’ access to the education they need to launch successful careers by investing $56 million in Peterborough-Kawartha. 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 $56 million investment represents a vital commitment to the future of our region,” said Dave Smith, MPP for Peterborough-Kawartha. “By delivering this targeted support directly to Fleming College, our government is ensuring that local students can continue to access world-class education right here at home. This funding provides the long-term stability needed to keep our postsecondary sector strong, while empowering the next generation with the practical skills required for rewarding, high-demand careers.”
“Fleming College plays a critical role in preparing the next generation of skilled workers, innovators, and community leaders” said Laurie Scott, MPP Haliburton – Kawartha Lakes – Brock. “This investment will help ensure students continue to benefit from high-quality education and hands-on training while strengthening the college’s long-term sustainability. By supporting Fleming today, we are helping build a stronger workforce, stronger communities, and greater opportunities for future generations to launch rewarding careers right here in Ontario.”
This investment will ensure that Fleming 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.”
“We are grateful to the Government of Ontario for this significant $14 million average annual investment in Fleming College, provided over the next four years,” said Dr. Theresa Knott, Interim President, Fleming College. “This funding will provide important stability for the College as we continue to focus on our students and their success. By investing in career-focused education and training, the province is helping ensure Fleming graduates are prepared with the skills they need to succeed in rewarding, in-demand careers and contribute to the communities and industries that depend on them.”
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 per cent for full-time students and 30 per cent 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.
Additional Resources
- Ontario Investing $6.4 Billion to Support Postsecondary Sector’s Long-Term Success and Sustainability | Ontario Newsroom
- Learn about colleges, universities and Indigenous Institutes in Ontario
Media Contact
Dave Smith Action Centre
Dave.smith@pc.ola.org
705-742-3777