New $2 billion infrastructure program for postsecondary institutions

OTTAWA – Canada’s universities welcome today’s launch of the federal government’s new Post-Secondary Institutions Strategic Investment Fund (SIF), which will provide $2 billion over three years to support excellence in research, innovation and environmental sustainability at campuses across Canada.

“Investment in postsecondary infrastructure is an‎ investment in Canada’s next generation of students and researchers,” says Elizabeth Cannon, president of the University of Calgary and chair of Universities Canada. “Improving the spaces where discoveries are made and innovation takes place will fuel prosperity for years to come.”

“Universities have proven themselves to be very capable partners in delivering both immediate and long-term results from infrastructure investments for Canadians,” says Paul Davidson, president of Universities Canada. “The benefits from enhanced facilities for research and innovation, and the greening of Canada’s campuses will benefit Canada now and well into the future.”

SIF will cover up to 50 percent of a project’s eligible costs. The remaining funding will come from other partners, including provincial and territorial governments and institutions themselves. The deadline for funding applications is May 9, 2016.

Program details are available here.

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