Colleges and Institutes Canada

Colleges and Institutes Canada (CICan) is the national, voluntary membership organization representing publicly supported colleges, institutes, cegeps and polytechnics in Canada and internationally.

Known previously as the Association of Canadian Community Colleges (ACCC), CICan continues to champion the innovations, applied research, international development, and the employment or entrepreneurial opportunities that are created by its member institutions and partners all over the world.

CICan’s members work with industry and social sectors to train learners of all ages and backgrounds at over 670 locations serving urban, rural, and remote communities across Canada. The association is committed to quality education and skills development opportunities for all Canadians as a means to maximize labour market participation and support Canada’s prosperity.

In 2018, Colleges and Institutes Canada (CICan) launched one of the most extensive consultations in our 45-year history to have meaningful conversations and develop a plan to guide our work for the next five years. The coming five years will be critical for the Canadian workforce as it adjusts to rapid and profound disruptions linked to changing and emerging technologies. As our members across the country respond to this new reality, this strategic plan will position us at the forefront of the discussions on the future of skills and work. 

By embracing our role as advocates, capacity-builders, and drivers of knowledge, our new strategic plan will ensure that we continue to strengthen the system by supporting our members in building a better Canada.