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Dal President Richard Florizone welcomed the launch of the federal government鈥檚 new $2-billion infrastructure fund aimed at helping post-secondary institutions improve research and innovation.

The (SIF) was first announced in late March as part of the federal budget and officially launched this Wednesday (April 6). Accredited universities, colleges and other educational institutions across the country are set to begin submitting applications for the funding.

"We are pleased to see this major funding initiative take shape so quickly," said Dr. Florizone. "It's further evidence that this government acknowledges the important role universities have in shaping Canada鈥檚 social, cultural and economic future 鈥� and that investments in infrastructure for research, discovery and innovation are crucial to that role.鈥�

The Honourable Kirsty Duncan, Minister of Science, said at a launch event in Toronto that the fund will help promote economic activity across the country in the years ahead by helping to enhance research excellence and training capacity at institutions.

"Canada's post-secondary institutions are front-line agents in fostering science and research excellence,鈥� she said. 鈥淭hey generate knowledge, insight and innovation. They help to train our terrific workforce of tomorrow and help position Canada among world leaders of scientific research," she told the audience gathered at Centennial College.

The government has committed to covering up to half of the costs of each accepted project, with the remaining funding coming from provincial counterparts and the schools themselves. The program will support new construction as well as the upgrading of existing infrastructure.

Paul Davidson, president of Universities Canada, echoed Dr. Florizone's sentiments in remarks made at the event.

"This is a great day for higher education, research and innovation in Canada," he said. "We're just delighted that the budget was only two weeks ago and here we are with a program ready to go."

Proposals for funding from universities and colleges are due by May 9, 2016.