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© Universities Canada 2026

Our priorities

Universities Canada prioritizes key areas such as funding for research and innovation, promoting equitable access to education, and enhancing global engagement. By working closely with policymakers, industry leaders, and academic institutions, Universities Canada ensures that its member universities are well-supported to deliver world-class education, drive economic growth and address the pressing challenges facing society today.

Priorities

Securing Canada’s future

Our country’s success is built on a promise to all Canadians: that a better life is within reach for anyone willing to work hard and contribute to their community. Now is the time for Canada’s new government to lead with purpose and urgency. That starts with bold investments in made-in-Canada research and talent.

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By the numbers

  • $19B

    in R&D

    The higher education sector performed $19 billion in research and development in 2024, accounting for 33 percent of total Canadian research and development.

  • 272

    patents in 2022

    University research institutes issued over 272 patents in 2022 alone.

  • 875

    startups founded

    875 startup companies dedicated to commercializing technologies developed at Canadian universities and research institutions.

  • $1.1B

    in research for business

    Canada’s universities conduct $1.1 billion in research for businesses and help build their competitive advantage.

  • $1.7B

    in research for not-for-profit sector

    Universities conduct $1.7 billion in research annually for the not-for-profit sector, which has more than tripled since 2000.

  • 35%

    of R&D by universities

    35% of Canada’s research and development is conducted by universities.

  • $30.9B

    into Canada’s economy

    In 2022, international students injected $30.9 billion into Canada’s economy—more than the country’s entire auto parts manufacturing industry—accounting for 1.2% of GDP.

  • 361,230

    jobs supported thanks to international students

    International students spending supported 361,230 jobs, the equivalent of filling every seat in Toronto’s Rogers Centre seven times over.

  • $7.4B

    in tax revenue

    International students contributed $7.4 billion in tax revenue—helping fund hospitals, schools and infrastructure that benefit all Canadians.

  • 2x

    Growth

    A university education is a game-changer. Since 2015, jobs requiring a bachelor’s degree have more than doubled.

  • 24%

    Increased earnings

    University graduates earn more—bachelor’s degree holders make 24% above the national average, and over a lifetime, they earn 50% more than those with only a high school diploma, translating to an earnings difference of approximately $1 million.

  • $48.6B

    Contribution to the economy

    But universities do more than educate — they drive Canada’s economy. They contribute $48.6 billion annually, support nearly 410,000 jobs and invest billions in local businesses, infrastructure and salaries.

  • 1000+

    Benefit from campuses in their community

    Universities open their doors to the public, transforming campuses into hubs for cultural events, sports and community programs—bringing together students, families and local businesses. 

  • 135,000

    Student housing

    With over 135,000 student housing units nationwide, they provide safe, affordable homes while easing pressure on local markets. Since May 2023, shovels have hit the ground on 16 new student housing projects across 12 campuses, creating much-needed, safe and affordable housing—helping ease the pressure in some of Canada’s tightest rental markets.