Ontario Tech University proudly celebrates an important milestone: a record-breaking fiscal year for new investment in the advancement of ethical technology, student success and groundbreaking research. The extraordinary commitment of donors to the university's Tech with a Conscience campaign, formally announced in November 2024, achieved an impressive $13.3-million raised, representing a 45 per cent year-over-year increase.
The incredible contributions from donors have been instrumental in advancing and strengthening Ontario Tech's legacy of tech-driven education and industry-relevant training, with a focus on social responsibility.
Year in review: Impact highlights
From, April 1, 2024, through March 31, 2025, donor support fueled transformative change across key areas:
- Student success: $1.8-million provided scholarships, bursaries, emergency financial aid, and expanded resources for varsity athletics and student-athletes.
- Advanced infrastructure: $6-million devoted to campus enhancements and the development of high-tech learning spaces.
- Research, innovation and community impact: $5.5-million powered research and industry partnerships, driving progress beyond the university.
Faces of Tech with a Conscience: 2024 celebrations of philanthropy
Behind the campaign's success are the countless inspiring stories of incredible supporters who have helped drive Ontario Tech's mission. While a few are highlighted here, the university extends its heartfelt gratitude to all donors contributing to the shared vision of Tech with a Conscience one that promotes responsible innovation, transforms campus development, and supports the next generation of ethical tech leaders in critical fields such as health care, artificial intelligence and energy.
- Anonymous contribution: $4.8-million anonymous contribution supporting campus expansion at one of Ontario's fastest-growing universities.
- Mitch and Leslie Frazer: The Mitch and Leslie Frazer Faculty of Education becomes the historic first donor-named faculty at Ontario Tech, in recognition of transformational philanthropy.
- Sorbara Family: $1-million+ contribution enhances modern facilities and empowers students with new scholarships.
- RBC Foundation: $750,000 gift establishes Student Enrichment Program, supporting the next generation of engineering talent rethinking the future of sustainable energy.
- Scotiabank: $500,000 investment launches the Black Youth Visionary Program, creating meaningful engagement opportunities for the Black student community at Ontario Tech.
- Jason and Riley Rinaldi: Generous gift establishes Chair in AI and Rehabilitation within the Institute for Disability and Rehabilitation Research, advancing cutting-edge solutions to improve mobility and independence for patients in need.
To see more examples of donor impact at Ontario Tech, watch the Innovation with Purpose: Powered by Donor Support video.
Looking ahead: The power of community
Ontario Tech is deeply grateful for a community of supporters who believe in taking technology for good one critical step further. Every donor, whether supporting scholarships and bursaries, groundbreaking research, innovative programs and initiatives, or enhancing our modern campus and facilities, plays an important role in shaping a future where technology is built with human values at its core.
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"Our vision for the future is clear: to be a thriving hub of innovation, inclusivity, and excellence in research, teaching and learning. To our donors, volunteers, partners and friends, thank you for believing in us. Your generosity is shaping the future by empowering students with hands-on training and job-ready skills, while advancing innovation and technology that elevate humanity and protect our planet."
- James Barnett, Vice-President, Advancement