The Ontario government is investing more than $47 million into research projects across the province, and a portion of that funding is coming directly to Barrie.
Minister of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security Nolan Quinn made the announcement Tuesday at Georgian College, where the school will receive nearly $1 million to upgrade its Centre of Industrial Simulation and Prototyping, a facility focused on advanced manufacturing research and training.
The funding is part of a broader investment supporting 195 research projects at universities, colleges and hospitals across Ontario through the Ontario Research Fund. The money can be used for infrastructure upgrades, lab renovations and the purchase of advanced research equipment.
“In the face of economic uncertainty, Ontario researchers are bolstering our critical industries with discoveries that cement our province as a global leader,” Quinn said at the announcement.
Georgian College says the investment will directly strengthen its applied research capacity and deepen partnerships with manufacturers across Simcoe County and beyond. The Centre of Industrial Simulation and Prototyping, launched in 2024, supports local employers by offering access to technology, testing environments and research expertise.
Kevin Weaver, president and CEO of Georgian College, said the funding will expand hands-on opportunities for students while helping regional employers stay competitive.
“This funding is an important investment in innovation and in the people who drive it,” Weaver said. “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.”
According to the province, the centre is expected to help create up to 460 jobs while training future workers in advanced manufacturing fields.
Local MPPs also highlighted the economic impact of the investment for Barrie and surrounding communities.
Andrea Khanjin, MPP for Barrie–Innisfil, called the funding a way to anchor economic growth locally.
“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,” she said.
Across the province, the government says the funded projects will focus on sectors such as agri-food, critical minerals, information technology, life sciences and manufacturing.
The province notes that research projects supported through the Ontario Research Fund are selected through a competitive peer review process.
