Leveraging Financial and Digital Capacity
The University of Guelph is committed to restoring its fiscal health, ensuring we have the resources to invest in our community and strategic priorities. By enhancing our digital capabilities, we are fostering innovation and sustainability across the institution. Embracing modern solutions streamlines processes and boosts efficiency, aligning our operations with our strategic goals. These advancements are not only crucial for our leadership in digital transformation and institutional excellence but also for securing a strong financial foundation that will support our future growth and success in a rapidly evolving landscape.
Goals
- Restore financial health to the University by 2026 through diversified and enhanced revenue streams, disciplined decision-making and diligent cost management.
- Implement a budget allocation model that accelerates the achievement of strategic priorities and goals, including financial sustainability.
- Drive innovation and institutional creativity and sustainability by advancing technological and digital solutions.
Key Measures
2023-24 / 2024-25
- Year-end operating budget surplus (deficit): ($13.9M) / ($4.9M)
- Private funding secured through philanthropic contributions and partnerships: $45.3M / $55.1M
Achievements
Launching a New Budget Model
U of G introduced a new budget model grounded in principles that emphasize fiscal responsibility, transparency, and alignment with the University’s mission. The model centers the academic work of the Colleges while recognizing that every unit contributes to the University’s success. It prioritizes balancing the operating budget, making processes more efficient, and enabling improved student experiences, faculty and staff engagement, and institutional growth. By empowering budget owners with clearer information and decision-making authority, the model strengthens accountability and positions the University to invest strategically in its future.
Real Estate Strategy Positions U of G for Long-Term Growth
U of G’s Board of Governors approved a new Real Estate Land Use Vision and Strategy, setting a long-term plan to realize the full potential of University-owned lands. The strategy re-imagines these properties as vibrant, mixed-use districts that integrate new student housing, research, retail, and public spaces. Designed to generate sustainable revenue, enhance the campus environment, and strengthen community connections, the plan will help fund academic priorities and support innovation for decades to come.
Campus Classroom Study Audit Informs Long-Term Financial and Digital Capacity
U of G has completed a comprehensive Campus Classroom Study and space utilization audit, providing a critical evidence base for integrated strategic campus planning. The results will guide decisions on how best to align physical and digital infrastructure investments with the University’s long-term operating budget capacity, ensuring resources are directed to initiatives that strengthen institutional sustainability and innovation.