Ontario Investing over $9 million to Prepare Windsor Students for In- Demand Jobs

January 15, 2026

Investments will fund infrastructure updates and modern equipment for high skill programs at the University of Windsor and St. Clair College

WINDSOR— The Ontario government is investing $9.65 million Windsor–Essex to modernize learning facilities at the University of Windsor and St. Clair College, helping students gain the skills needed for the jobs of tomorrow. These investments support the government’s plan to protect Ontario’s future by strengthening the region’s pipeline of highly skilled workers and ensuring students have access to state-of-the-art equipment and modern learning environments.

“Access to cutting-edge facilities and equipment is key to preparing students for success after graduation,” said Andrew Dowie, MPP for Windsor–Tecumseh. “This investment in the University of Windsor and St. Clair College will help or students develop critical, job-ready skills, secure good-paying careers and continue to drive the growth of Windsor–Essex’s local workforce.”

The funding is distributed through the Facilities Renewal Program and the Equipment Renewal Fund, and is broken down as follows:

College/University	FRP Funding	Project	CERF/ERF Funding	Project
University of Windsor	$4,899,500	Renovation of the Biotech Lab; Classroom upgrades; Roof replacement	$700,376	Enhancing experiential, flexible and accessible learning in high demand and high skill programs
St. Clair College	$3,625,500	Roof replacement; Electrical upgrades; Storm/Sanitary sump pump replacements	$425,500	Updated equipment for Medical Laboratory Programs: automated hematology analyzer, automated cell counter, and serofuge machine; Computers for the Architectural Technology program

This investment is part of the government’s $242 million to upgrade classrooms and equipment at publicly funded colleges and universities across the province. Institutions can use the funding for major building systems upgrades, heating and ventilating system upgrades, as well as mechanical and electrical system upgrades. The funds can also be used to buy educational tools, such as modernized computers and software for teaching purposes, specialized equipment, or machinery for use in labs, shops and classrooms. As a shared responsibility, part of the capital infrastructure program requires colleges and universities to make matching contributions.

“In the face of economic uncertainty, Ontario’s world-class colleges and universities are integral to building and protecting Ontario’s future workforce,” said Nolan Quinn, Minister of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security. “Through this investment, our government is ensuring that students have the modern tools and facilities they need to stay on the cutting edge of our critical industries in their future careers.”

“The University of Windsor is grateful to the Ontario government for its investments to help modernize classrooms, instructional equipment, and campus facilities,” said Dr. J.J. McMurtry, President and Vice-Chancellor. “UWindsor is committed to ensuring students are prepared to thrive in an evolving labour market, and investments like these strengthen our ability to provide industry-aligned learning opportunities in more modern facilities right here in Windsor–Essex.”

“Investing in building upkeep and equipment upgrades is essential to supporting student success—especially as the province-wide college system, including St. Clair College, approaches its 60th anniversary next year,” said St. Clair College President Michael Silvaggi. “Like any long-standing institution, our facilities require continuous care to meet modern standards. This Ministry support enables us to keep campuses safe and welcoming while ensuring classroom and lab equipment remains current and aligned with today’s learning needs. We are truly grateful for this commitment to quality education.”

This investment is building offthe record setting funding from the province for the publicly assisted postsecondary sector, including nearly $1 billion to fund over 100,000 more seats in economy-driving programs such as construction, teaching, nursing, and STEM. By expanding key programs and modernizing learning tools, the government is equipping students to lead, innovate and drive in a rapidly evolving economy.

QUICK FACTS

As announced in the 2025 Ontario Budget, the government is investing over $2 billion in capital grants for colleges and universities, protecting Ontario’s future workforce by modernizing facilities with upgraded technology, critical repairs and improved energy efficiency.

The Facilities Renewal Program provides annual funding to help colleges and universities renew and modernize their campuses by repairing and renovating existing facilities, including major building systems upgrades, roof repairs, heating and ventilating system upgrades, and mechanical and electrical system upgrades.
The College Equipment Renewal Fund provides annual funding to help colleges buy and renew instructional equipment and learning resources, such as specialized equipment, machinery or tools for use in labs, shops and classrooms.
The Training Equipment and Renewal Fund provides annual funding to help universities buy state-of-the-art equipment that supports in-person or virtual learning, helps to meet industry or business standards, or supports enrolment growth.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

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