The funding will be used to design, build and equip the university’s computer lab with tools and space to support teaching in mobile application engineering, cybersecurity, software systems, data analytics and computer game technology.

The funding from federal agency FedNor will be used to design and build a $6.6-million plaza and social space in the city’s downtown core. Construction is expected to create 46 jobs.

Michael Nobrega has served on the company’s board for three years, and replaces Dale Richmond, who retired with immediate effect.

Permit activity in Ontario in December dropped more than 13 percent, due in large part to a drop of more than 30 percent in non-residential activity. The province finished the year with an increase of 41 percent in the residential sector, and a drop of 37 percent in non-residential activity.

Canada’s economy appears to have suffered its worst year on record as the national statistics agency’s preliminary estimate showed a contraction of 5.1 per cent in 2020.