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Ontario Investing $56.8 Million to Expand Nursing Enrolment and Strengthen Health Care
Ontario is taking another decisive step to address the growing demand for skilled health-care professionals. The provincial government has announced a $56.8 million investment to train 2,200 additional nurses through expanded seats at publicly funded colleges and universities.
This move aims to build a steady pipeline of highly skilled nurse practitioners, registered nurses (RNs), and registered practical nurses (RPNs) to meet increasing needs in hospitals, long-term care homes, community health centres, and primary care clinics across the province.
Why the Nursing Enrolment Expansion Matters
Nurses form the backbone of Ontario’s health-care system, providing critical, patient-focused care in every community. With the health sector facing higher demand due to an aging population and ongoing workforce pressures, the province is working to ensure more qualified nurses are available where they are needed most. Minister of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security, Nolan Quinn, emphasized that expanding nursing enrolment is key to protecting Ontario’s health-care capacity and ensuring access to care close to home.
Innovative Pathways: Online Nursing Programs
Ontario is also expanding access through flexible online nursing training:
- Personal Support Workers (PSWs) can now pursue a Practical Nursing diploma.
- Registered Practical Nurses (RPNs) can obtain a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) degree.
These online pathways are designed for working health-care professionals seeking to upgrade their qualifications without leaving their communities.
Additional Investments in Training Tools
To further enhance the quality of education, the province is providing a one-time $7.5 million investment to universities for purchasing clinical supplies and advanced lab equipment. This funding ensures nursing students gain hands-on experience with the latest tools and technologies used in modern patient care.
Quick Facts: Ontario’s Nursing Growth Strategy
| Initiative | Impact |
| New nurses added since 2018 | Nearly 100,000 |
| Current nursing students in training | 30,000 |
| Ontario Learn and Stay Grant (launched 2023–24) | $96+ million in support for 8,200+ students |
| Online nursing pathway | 15,000 future users |
| June 2025 expansion | $4.2 million to boost rural & northern program seats |
Through the Ontario Learn and Stay Grant, more nurses, paramedics, and medical lab technologists are being trained in high-need communities. Students receive funding in exchange for committing to work in those regions after graduation.
Government Leaders on the Expansion
Deputy Premier and Minister of Health, Sylvia Jones, highlighted that these measures strengthen Ontario’s “world-class nursing workforce” for the long term. Minister of Long-Term Care, Natalia Kusendova-Bashta — herself a registered nurse — noted how impactful these investments will be in ensuring long-term care residents have access to consistent, high-quality services.
Ontario to Expand Nursing Enrolment Is a Win for Communities
The Ontario investing $56.8 million to expand nursing enrolment initiative is more than an education policy — it’s a long-term health-care investment. By creating new training opportunities, upgrading facilities, and offering flexible learning options, Ontario is building a stronger, more resilient nursing workforce. For aspiring nurses, this expansion offers a clear opportunity to start or advance their careers, contribute to community health, and secure stable, in-demand roles across the province.
