Earlier today, following a visit to our Welland Campus by Nolan Quinn, Ontario’s Minister of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security, the provincial government announced the results of Niagara College’s application to the Priority Growth Fund.
Introduced this year, the Priority Growth Fund is a competitive funding envelope for colleges and universities designed to support enrolment growth in key areas aligned with labour market needs including STEM, healthcare, skilled trades, education and transportation. Niagara College’s comprehensive submission focused on areas of high student and employer demand, and leveraged our strong relationships with employers, industry, community organizations, Indigenous partners, and other postsecondary institutions. It was very well received as reflected in the allocation announced by the Province today.
Over the next three years, Niagara College will receive up to $23 million to fund 1,021 new seats in 33 programs, including:
- 346 in health programs
- 263 in skilled trades programs
- 230 in STEM programs
- 182 in education programs
The additional growth funding announced for Niagara College today is a clear recognition of the quality of Niagara College programs, and of the important role that we play in building a highly-skilled workforce that fuels economic growth. The government’s investment in NC through the Priority Growth Fund strengthens our capacity to prepare workforce-ready graduates through work-integrated learning, exceptional teaching, student supports, and strong connections with community and industry.
As we continue to receive information from the Province, we will evaluate the impact of this announcement on our current and future budgets. We do know that, when combined with the funding formula changes announced by the Province in February, 2026, it will contribute positively to our efforts to achieve and sustain financial stability.
As we receive further details related to our Priority Growth Fund allotment, the information will be incorporated into our annual enrolment planning that is conducted within program areas and across the College.
Our successful Priority Growth Fund application submission was a cross-college effort, and was developed through collaboration with, and input from, teams across NC. I would like to express my sincere appreciation to all who contributed to its success.
This is very good news for Niagara College, and contributes to what has already been a very successful start to the Fall term.
Wishing you a great week,
