The Government of Ontario is investing $100 million through Building Ontario Fund (BOF) to support the development of two new student residences and academic spaces at Trent University.  

The provincial investment in Trent’s newest college, Gidigaa Migizi College, and the new Otonabee College residence is being made in partnership with the University, Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan (HOOPP) and Knightstone Capital Management. 

“This project represents one of the largest infrastructure investments in Trent University's history and a significant investment in the future of our students, our University, and our community,” said Dr. Cathy Bruce, president and vice-chancellor of Trent University.

“This investment will enhance our capacity to welcome future generations of students and reflects a shared commitment to building vibrant, thriving communities through higher education. We are grateful to the Government of Ontario, Building Ontario Fund, and our project partners for their confidence in this vision." 

The development projects at Trent University’s Symons Campus in Peterborough will create 1,400 student beds, giving more students access to on-campus housing while easing pressure on the local rental market. The buildings will also add approximately 134,000 square feet of state-of-the-art academic, social, and administrative space. 

“Protecting Ontario’s future workforce starts with supporting student success inside and outside the classroom,” said Nolan Quinn, Minister of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security. “By expanding academic spaces and student residences at Trent University, our government is ensuring that more students can focus on getting the skills they need to launch rewarding, good-paying careers while continuing to support Trent’s long-term growth and sustainability.” 

The addition of Gidigaa Migizi College and a new Otonabee College residence continue Trent’s longstanding collegiate traditions. As an integrated living and learning model, Trent’s collegiate system is an integral part of campus life. The Colleges of Trent facilitate student access to classes, academic supports, and campus services, while building a stronger sense of community and belonging through residence experiences. Both buildings will be fully accessible and feature multi-use communal spaces for students.

“Students come to Peterborough to learn, build connections and begin the next chapter of their lives,” said Dave Smith, MPP for Peterborough-Kawartha and parliamentary assistant to the Minister of Finance. “This investment will expand the University’s campus and provide new academic, student, and residential spaces that will enhance the student experience and support Trent’s future growth.”

As Trent’s newest college, Gidigaa Migizi College will feature new modern academic spaces, including large lecture halls, as well as an integrated student services hub, and a roof-top event space and outdoor pavilion with panoramic views of campus and the Otonabee River.

Sustainable Growth and Economic Impact

The innovative public-private financing model for the projects supports Trent University’s long-term growth and continued role as a driver in strengthening the local economy.  

"This project reflects years of disciplined planning translated into results our students will benefit from for generations,” said Tariq Al-idrissi, vice-president of Finance & Administration. “Bringing together public and private capital at this scale required real collaboration, and this structure works for Trent today and for decades to come. We're proud to have partnered with the Building Ontario Fund, HOOPP, Knightstone Capital, and others to build a financing model that positions the university for sustainable growth well into the future." 

“This investment reflects Building Ontario Fund's mandate to unlock priority infrastructure that delivers long-term public benefit through responsible, commercially disciplined investment,” said Michael Fedchyshyn, chief executive officer, Building Ontario Fund. “By partnering with Trent University, HOOPP, Knightstone Capital Management, we are helping deliver much-needed student housing, attracting institutional capital to Ontario, and creating a model that can be replicated across the province."  

Construction is anticipated to be completed by fall 2029. BOF’s investment is to be repaid through a future refinancing agreement once construction is complete and the residences are occupied and generating revenue. 

Learn more about Gidigaa Migizi College and the new Otonabee College residence.