eCampusOntario Supports Strategic Skills Funding in Budget 2023

March 24, 2023 

eCampusOntario supports the commitments outlined in yesterday’s provincial Budget, Building a Strong Ontario, that recognize education as a key driver of economic competitiveness and innovation. 

The Government’s continued investment in micro-credentials underscores the importance of reskilling and upskilling opportunities for Ontarians. After the success of its Micro-credentials Challenge Fund in 2022, the budget outlined an additional $5 million to develop offerings that help fill critical gaps in the labour market and provide jobs for learners.  

eCampusOntario continues its support of the province’s Micro-credentials Strategy, with over 1800 OSAP-eligible micro-credentials that learners can access through the Micro-credentials Portal. The organization also provides employers with partnership opportunities with Ontario’s postsecondary education institutions to give learners access to fast, affordable and industry-relevant education.  

Access remains an essential factor for those in rural and remote areas to participate in training that prepares learners for the future of work. Budget 2023 provides funding for the continued expansion of critical broadband infrastructure that supports digital first learning. 

Improved tools to enable broader digital participation are essential investments that will ensure postsecondary institutions can maximize the value of the Virtual Learning Strategy and support the future of learning through initiatives such as eCampusOntario’s Digital Transformation. 

Budget 2023 also provides supports for newcomers to rapidly integrate into the labour market, as well as key innovation investments in racialized and Indigenous entrepreneurship. Other notable initiatives include an expansion of the Ontario Learn and Stay Grant, investments in medical education and additional research funds earmarked for Mitacs internships. 

Working with the province’s publicly assisted colleges, universities and Indigenous Institutes, eCampusOntario will continue to leverage investments like these to ensure all Ontarians are equipped with the skills and ingenuity needed to succeed in the global innovation economy.