Corporations and contracts

In response to cutbacks in government funding, universities have increasingly pursued corporations to provide sponsorship, particularly in support of applied research. In 1982/83, universities obtained 18% of their income in this manner; by 1998/99, this swelled to 28%.

In 2001/02, for the first time in 15 years, revenues from public sources increased at a faster rate than those from private sources. Revenues from public sources, grants and contracts from all levels of government increased 5.6% to nearly $9.4 billion. In contrast, revenues from private sources grew a more modest 3.4% to $7.6 billion. Notably, a 6.5% increase in revenues from student fees contributed to the gain from private sources.

As the private sector’s presence has expanded on campuses, so too has the controversy over the relationship. In recent years, some universities and public schools have entered into exclusive contracts with soft-drink manufacturers. Others were offered computer and television equipment in return for screening a current affairs video that included a segment of commercial messages. Most provincial departments of education rejected this latter proposal.