Health News For Brampton

 Print

Wednesday, January 21, 2026

Ontario Investing More than $47 Million to Drive Local Research and Innovation

News Release
January 21, 2026

Groundbreaking research at universities, colleges and hospitals will protect jobs and keep Ontario competitive in the global market

BARRIE— The Ontario government is investing more than $47 million in 195 research projects at universities, colleges and hospitals across the province. As part of the government’s plan to protect Ontario, supporting homegrown research will lead to groundbreaking discoveries and real-world applications that protect good-paying jobs, improve lives and keep Ontario businesses on the cutting edge of innovation to compete in the global market.

“In the face of economic uncertainty, Ontario researchers are bolstering our critical industries with discoveries that cement our province as a global leader,” said Nolan Quinn, Minister of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security. “This investment in our world-class colleges, universities and hospitals will advance the sectors that drive our economy, create jobs, and save lives.”

This funding, delivered through the Ontario Research Fund, can be used to build, renovate and acquire state-of-the-art equipment for critical research projects and research facilities. The projects will drive economic growth in key sectors like agri-food, critical minerals, information technology, life sciences and manufacturing. A full list of funded research projects can be viewed here.

Minister Quinn made the announcement at Georgian College, which received nearly $1 million to upgrade its Centre of Industrial Simulation and Prototyping. As a leader in advanced manufacturing, the Centre supports regional businesses with research, resources and technology that strengthen the manufacturing sector and its workforce. Launched in 2024, the Centre will create up to 460 jobs while also training the next generation of manufacturing leaders and innovators at Georgian College.

“This funding is an important investment in innovation and in the people who drive it,” said Kevin Weaver, President and CEO, Georgian College. “As a Technology Access Centre, Georgian works closely with manufacturers and industry partners to solve complex challenges and accelerate innovation across priority sectors. We’re grateful for the Government of Ontario’s support to expand our Centre of Industrial Simulation and Prototyping to further strengthen applied research and create even more hands-on learning opportunities for our students.”

By supporting high-impact, homegrown research, the province is continuing to ensure Ontario remains one of the most competitive places to invest, grow and do business in the G7.


Quick Facts

  • Research projects supported through the Ontario Research Fund are selected through a rigorous and competitive peer review process.
  • Since taking office, the government has invested over $2 billion into the research sector, including support for over 1,800 research projects through the Ontario Research Fund and Early Researcher Awards programs.
  • The Ontario Research Fund and Early Researcher Awards programs have supported the creation of more than 150,000 training opportunities for researchers and students across the province, and contributed to nearly 500 patents being granted, 76 spin-off companies being created and 594 new jobs at those spin-offs.
  • In September 2025, Ontario invested $18 million to boost the production of life-saving medical isotopes at the McMaster Nuclear Reactor.
  • In November 2025, Ontario provided $19.5 million to establish the Centre for Fusion Energy, advancing clean energy research.

Quotes

"Investments through the Ontario Research Fund strengthen colleges’ partnerships with industry, accelerate made-in-Ontario solutions and support students and researchers driving growth in priority sectors."

- Maureen Adamson
President and CEO of Colleges Ontario

"Through this investment in cutting-edge research at Ontario’s universities, researchers will be able to achieve innovative homegrown breakthroughs which will drive economic growth, support talent development, and attract investment – essential elements to protect and grow Ontario’s rapidly evolving economy."

- Steve Orsini
President and CEO, Council of Ontario Universities

"This funding will help unlock key industry specific research that will help foster economic growth and promote Ontario as a leader across various disciplines. Having this research take place in our community will attract both industry professionals and students wishing to expand their understanding and further development in critical sectors."

- Doug Downey
MPP for Barrie – Springwater – Oro-Medonte

"I am pleased to see our government investing in innovation through the Ontario Research Fund, which strengthens our province’s position as a leader in cutting-edge research and economic growth. This funding for Georgian College will help attract top talent, support local businesses, and create new opportunities for partnerships that directly benefit our community. By driving research through projects like Georgian College’s, and the many others across the key sectors, we are fostering job creation, advancing new technologies, and building a more prosperous future for families and businesses in our region and throughout Ontario."

- Jill Dunlop
MPP for Simcoe North

"Our government is making strategic investments that strengthen Ontario’s economy right here at home. This funding will help researchers and innovators at institutions like Georgian College drive cutting-edge discoveries, create good-paying local jobs, and ensure our region continues to play a vital role in keeping Ontario competitive on the global stage."

- Andrea Khanjin
MPP for Barrie–Innisfil


Related Topics

Business and economy

Information about Ontario’s economy and how to do business here. Includes economic development opportunities, research funding, tax credits for business and the Ontario Budget. Learn more

Education and apprenticeship

Learn about Ontario’s early years, education and training systems. Includes information on child care, elementary schools, secondary schools, colleges, universities, skills training and financial aid. Learn more

Media Contacts

Bianca Giacoboni
Minister’s Office
bianca.giacoboni@ontario.ca

Media Desk
Communications Branch
Ministry of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security
MCURES.media@ontario.ca

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Local Health Care News   Top

Stroke Resources Health Care Connect Behavioural Supports Ontario CaregiverExchange Mental Health At School