The November 4th budget is a clear recognition of the government of Canada's value for universities as essential partners in building a stronger, more resilient country. Across every region, universities drive growth, innovation and opportunity anchoring local economies, supporting communities and training the talent that drives national progress.
Universities Canada is encouraged to see the federal government's response to several of the Coalition for Canadian Research's key recommendations, as well as new commitments to attract top research talent and strengthen sovereignty, reflecting confidence in the expertise and capacity that universities contribute to Canada's security, innovation and economic development.
"This budget invests in people who will help build Canada's future," said Gabriel Miller, President and CEO, Universities Canada. "With strong, sustained partnership, universities are ready to turn these commitments into the skilled workforce our country needs to grow and thrive."
We want to acknowledge the government's following endorsements of the sector:
- Commitment to a new International Talent Attraction Strategy and Action Plan that supports universities in recruiting top researchers and driving the R&D-based growth essential to Canada's future competitiveness.
- Universities included in the $51 billion Build Communities Strong Fund, recognizing their role in delivering essential infrastructure that strengthens campuses and communities across Canada.
- The inclusion of ISED, NSERC and the NRC in the $1.69 billion Defence Industrial Strategy.
- The proposed $925.6 million over five years to develop large-scale sovereign public AI infrastructure, much of it based in universities, to safeguard Canada's data sovereignty and drive responsible innovation.
Finally, we recognize the government's efforts to build a sustainable immigration system that welcomes those seeking to study at Canada's world-class universities, but the plan must match this government's talent and economic agenda. We look forward to the full details of the Levels Plan and will continue to advocate for practical solutions that promote predictability, coordination and support for responsible institutions.
Universities across Canada are ready to collaborate with government on a coordinated, transparent system that creates opportunities for Canadians and clear pathways for global talent. We look forward to continuing to work together to ensure these commitments deliver lasting benefits for Canadians in every region.
