About the Program
The Knowledge Infrastructure Program is a two-year, $2 billion economic stimulus measure to support infrastructure enhancement at post-secondary institutions across Canada. The program is part of the $12 billion Government of Canada stimulus package announced in Budget 2009.
Funds of up to $1 billion in 2009–10 and $1 billion in 2010–11 are available under this program.
For the university component, the program gives preference to projects that can improve the quality of research and development at the institution.
For the college component, which includes publicly funded polytechnic schools, CEGEPs, and institutes of technology, funding is available for projects that strengthen their ability to deliver advanced knowledge and skills training.
For more information, consult the eligibility section of this website.
Who is responsible for the Program?
The Knowledge Infrastructure Program is overseen by the Minister of Industry in consultation with the Minister of State (Science and Technology). The day-to-day administration of the program is provided by Industry Canada.
Why is this program being created?
Post-secondary institutions have indicated that a major portion of their existing campus infrastructure is at or near the end of its projected life cycle, and often does not adequately meet the needs of today's research and training activities. The Knowledge Infrastructure Program responds directly to this need by supporting deferred maintenance, repair and expansion projects at post-secondary institutions.
The Program supports Canada's Science and Technology Strategy by promoting advances in S&T, which are essential to strengthen the competitiveness of Canada's economy.
Who will benefit from the Program?
By investing in the revitalization of these post-secondary institutions in Canada, the Knowledge Infrastructure Program will not only generate economic benefits and support job creation in the near term, it will, over the medium and long term, enhance research capacity, support the attraction of new students and provide a better educational experience for the highly skilled workers of tomorrow.
These infrastructure investments will create and maintain jobs for engineers, architects, trades people and technicians, and provide new opportunities for a wide range of firms that offer renovation services and the advanced technological infrastructure needed to keep Canada's research and educational facilities at the forefront of scientific advancement.
The Program will also have an important positive net impact on the environment. It will reduce energy use, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and improve waste management at universities and colleges across Canada.
How will support be coordinated among funding sources?
Efforts have been made to ensure effective and timely delivery of support for infrastructure projects. Provincial and territorial governments have been asked to identify their priorities for infrastructure investments in post-secondary education institutions. The federal government will not only ensure that funding is awarded to top priority projects, but will extend the benefits that the investments provide for Canadians. To that end, the maximum share of funding from all federal sources is 50% of total eligible costs. The projects require investments from partners, such as the post-secondary institutions themselves, provincial or territorial governments, the charitable sector, the private sector, or others, as appropriate. The exception is for projects at institutions accredited by a First Nations government or the Government of Canada, where up to 100% of project funding may be provided by the Government of Canada.