Following the tabling of the Government of Alberta’s Budget 2026/27, Portage College’s operational funding includes a 2.1 per cent increase to the College’s Operating Base Grant. This represents an additional $421,000 for the upcoming academic year. There was also a five per cent increase in Capital Maintenance and Renewal (CMR) funding.
Key Funding Highlights for 2026/27
- Operating Base Grant: $20,476,746 (increase of $421,000 or 2.1% from 2025/26)
- Capital Maintenance and Renewal: $1,268,238 (increase of $60,392 or 5.0%)
- Post-Secondary Mental Health Funding: $175,000 (no change)
- Targeted Enrolment Expansion: $952,007 (no change)
- Students with Disabilities Funding: $181,345 (no change)
Overall, the Government of Alberta’s Budget 2026/27 provides modest increases in key areas and maintains stability in core funding. While the increase to the Base Operating Grant and CMR funding is welcomed, without broader adjustments to fully offset ongoing inflationary and operating pressures, the College will continue to manage cost increases within existing resources.
“We appreciate the province’s continued investment in Portage College and the role we play in strengthening rural Alberta,” said Dr. Stephen Price, President & CEO of Portage College. “This funding allows us to support our learners with high-impact, community‑focused education while navigating rising operational pressures. We are proud to partner with government to create education‑fuelled pathways that help students thrive and contribute to the future prosperity of our region.”
Commitment to the Region
The 2026/27 budget underscores the province’s ongoing confidence in Portage College as a key educational partner for northeastern Alberta. The College remains committed to empowering students, strengthening communities, and supporting local workforce needs through responsive, student‑focused programming.
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