Premier Wynne announces new job experience fund during Kitchener visit

A new $20 million fund will help Ontario's college students get hands-on work experience, the premier says.

The Colleges Applied Research and Development Fund was announced Tuesday as Premier Kathleen Wynne stopped at Conestoga College in Kitchener, Ont., as part of a provincial tour of university and college campuses.

The fund will run for three years and the province said it will help ensure the skills students learn in school match what employers need.

Colleges can use the money to connect with businesses, industry associations and organizations to build partnerships. This includes startups who want to utilize college students as they launch new products and services.

The funds can also be used to create opportunities for students to consult with companies while they're mentored by a member of their college's faculty.

"By increasing access to experiential learning opportunities, where students can solve real-world challenges, we are giving them the tools they need to thrive in the workforce," Wynne said in a release.

Reza Moridi, the minister of research, innovation and science, joined Wynne at the college Tuesday. He said the money will "help our innovation economy thrive and compete in the global race."