Knowledge Infrastructure Program

New in Canada's Economic Action Plan

Through Canada's Economic Action Plan, the federal government is providing $2 billion over two years to support deferred maintenance, repair and expansion projects at post-secondary institutions across Canada. The funding, which is made available under the Knowledge Infrastructure Program, is part of the $12 billion in infrastructure investments announced in Budget 2009.  

About the Program

A significant portion of the existing campus infrastructure at Canada's post-secondary institutions is at, or near, the end of its projected life cycle, and often does not adequately meet today's needs. The program is providing a significant short-term economic stimulus in communities across Canada, while enhancing research capacity, helping to attract new students, and providing a better educational experience for tomorrow's highly-skilled workers. 

Federal funding is paying for up to half of project costs, levering an equivalent amount from other partners. Eligible projects must be materially completed by March 31, 2011. 

How It Works

Project proposals were accepted from provinces and territories, and directly from eligible post-secondary institutions. Projects were selected for funding based on the following criteria:

• State of readiness – how quickly the proposed project could move forward.
• Merit – the ability of the project to generate economic benefits and support job creation in the near term.
• The extent to which projects enhance (a) the quality of research and development at universities, or (b) the ability of colleges to deliver advanced knowledge and skills training.

Who Is Eligible

Funding was available to all institutions that are authorized under provincial or territorial statutes to deliver post-secondary courses or programs that lead to recognized and transferable post-secondary credentials. These include public and not-for-profit private institutions, including Aboriginal-controlled and Government of Canada-controlled post-secondary institutions. 

According to provincial legislation in Quebec, applicants from that province could not apply directly to the Government of Canada for funding. Therefore, the Province of Quebec applied for federal funding on behalf of its post-secondary institutions.

How to Find Out More

For more information, please visit the Industry Canada website or call 1-866-978-2584.

Find a Project Near You

This initiative helps fund the project(s) listed below. Select a project to learn more.

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