Government of Canada's Knowledge Infrastructure Program

The Knowledge Infrastructure Program is a federal initiative to renew Canada's college and university infrastructure. By making large-scale investments in infrastructure, the Government of Canada is providing short-term economic stimulus in local communities across the country.

The power of concerted action was demonstrated when the 2009-2010 federal budget supported colleges, institutes, university colleges, cégeps, and polytechnics by earmarking at least $600 million over two years for their “repair, refurbishment, and expansion.” ACCC had studied infrastructure needs, submitted briefs, met key ministers and deputies, opposition critics, and the Prime Minister’s Office, while engaging in an aggressive media campaign. Member institutions supported the effort by conducting their own campaigns using shared messaging to strengthen the volume of the national voice. Our collective success in persuading the federal government to invest in college, institute, university college, cégep and polytechnic infrastructure as part of the stimulus package is an important step that signals some movement by the Government of Canada towards understanding the critical role of colleges and institutes in developing the advanced skills essential for Canada’s economic growth and productivity.

To focus on what made us successful in this first round and retain levels of recognition to support our advocacy in applied research and development, and other key areas, ACCC has developed simple advocacy tools to assist members in their efforts to emphasize the linkage between national advocacy and local results. While some elements and concepts contained in the toolkit are well-known to you, some will provide a useful reminder of how we can work together.

Toolkit material is listed in the left navigation bar.

Additional information is available on the Industry Canada website.