Canada’s post-secondary institutions to benefit from new infrastructure program

Canada’s post-secondary institutions are at the forefront of excellence in science, research and innovation. They help to train the workforce of tomorrow and create the knowledge and insights needed by the private and public sectors to build a clean, sustainable economy.

The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, was at McMaster University today to highlight the benefits of the new $2-billion Post-Secondary Institutions Strategic Investment Fund for improving research and innovation infrastructure at universities and colleges across the country.

“Canada’s post-secondary institutions are front-line agents in fostering science and research excellence,” says Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development. “They help to train the workforce of tomorrow and create the knowledge and insights necessary for the private sector and policy makers to build a thriving, clean economy. These investments will create good, well-paying jobs that can help the middle class grow and prosper today, while also delivering economic growth for years to come.”

Announced in Budget 2016, the Fund will enhance and modernize research facilities on Canadian campuses and improve the environmental sustainability of these facilities. Consultation with the provinces and territories as well as work to implement the initiative as quickly as possible are already under way.

The targeted, short-term investments under the Fund will promote economic activity across Canada and help Canada’s universities and colleges develop highly skilled workers, act as engines of discovery and collaborate on innovations that help Canadian companies compete and grow internationally.

“This Government of Canada investment in our universities is important and appreciated; it will have real results for our students, researchers and communities,” says Patrick Deane, McMaster’s President. “McMaster shares the Government’s commitment to sustainable growth and innovation and is thankful for this much-needed opportunity.”