The Government of Ontario is investing $100 million in two student housing and academic infrastructure projects at Trent University in Peterborough, Ont.

The investment, delivered through the Building Ontario Fund (BOF), will support the construction of Gidigaa Migizi College, the university’s newest college, and a new residence at Otonabee College. Trent is partnering with the province, the Healthcare of Ontario Pension Plan (HOOPP), and Knightstone Capital Management on the developments.

The projects will add 1,400 student beds and approximately 12,449 m² (134,000 sf) of academic, social, and administrative space at the university’s Symons Campus. The additional housing is intended to expand on-campus accommodation and reduce pressure on the local rental market.

Gidigaa Migizi College will include large lecture halls, an integrated student services hub, a rooftop event space, and an outdoor pavilion overlooking the campus and the Otonabee River. Both buildings will feature accessible facilities and multi-use communal spaces.

“This project represents one of the largest infrastructure investments in Trent University’s history,” said Dr. Cathy Bruce, president and vice-chancellor of Trent University. She said the development will increase the university’s capacity to accommodate future students.

The project uses a public-private financing model involving the university, BOF, HOOPP, and Knightstone Capital Management.

BOF CEO Michael Fedchyshyn said the investment will support student housing and attract institutional capital to Ontario. He also said the financing approach could be replicated elsewhere in the province.

Under the agreement, BOF’s $100-million investment will be repaid through a future refinancing once construction is complete and the residences are occupied and generating revenue.

The developments are expected to be completed by fall 2029.