HAMILTON — The Ontario government is taking decisive action to protect
postsecondary students’ access to the education they need to launch successful
careers by investing $345.3 million at McMaster University and Mohawk 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.

“McMaster and Mohawk are world-class institutions that have long been an integral part of Hamilton’s economy and workforce,” said Neil Lumsden, MPP for Hamilton East – Stoney Creek. “This historic investment ensures they can keep delivering the programs that get students into good, in-demand careers right here at home – this is great news for students, local employers and the future of our city.”

This investment will ensure that both McMaster and Mohawk 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 indemand 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.”

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