At York University, budgeting is a strategic tool that enables the institution to deliver on its academic mission and long-term vision. Guided by the University Academic Plan (UAP) 2020–2025: Building a Better Future and the York U Forward Action Plan, York’s budget planning process ensures that resources are allocated in alignment with institutional priorities, values and commitments.
The University Fund: Investing in York’s Strategic Future
At the heart of SHARP lies the University Fund, a centrally managed resource designed to accelerate York University’s most important strategic priorities. This fund empowers the institution to act boldly and collaboratively in pursuit of its academic mission and institutional goals.
The University Fund Council convenes regularly throughout the year to review proposals submitted through a formal intake process. Based on these reviews, the council makes funding recommendations to the president.
The University Fund supports
- Strategic innovation
The fund enables time-limited initiatives that align with the University Academic Plan (UAP) and the York U Forward Action Plan. These include transformative efforts in areas such as Faculty renewal, digital transformation, and decolonizing, equity, diversity and inclusion initiatives (DEDI).
- Collaborative impact
In the near future, the fund will prioritise cross-institutional projects, supporting initiatives that span multiple Faculties or administrative units and foster a culture of shared innovation, resource pooling and collective impact.
- Targeted operational support
The fund provides tailored assistance to Faculties or units navigating structural challenges or periods of transition, helping to stabilize and strengthen operations.
- Institutional resilience
A portion of the fund is reserved to ensure York can respond swiftly and effectively to unforeseen financial pressures or institutional risks.
Current Strategic Priorities
The multi-year budget plan includes strategic investments to advance the priorities of the University Academic Plan and to support local efforts, as well as concerted measures to enhance the financial sustainability of the University. Priority investments are identified and incorporated into the University’s operating budget. These investments are primarily funded through the University Fund and capital reserves and are aligned with both the University Academic Plan and the Forward Action Plan.
The University Fund commitments for the 2025-26 multi-year budget are categorized into four key areas: Faculties, research, students, and Advancement as shown in the following table:
