A major investment in innovation and education is coming to Durham Region as Durham College secures $2M funding for immersive research stage, positioning Oshawa as a growing hub for advanced digital technology and applied research.
Durham College has announced it will receive approximately $1.89 million in combined federal and provincial funding to develop a state-of-the-art immersive research stage at its Mixed Reality Capture Studio. The project is expected to be completed and fully operational by Fall 2027, marking a significant step forward in immersive technology development.
The new facility will allow researchers, students, and industry partners to explore cutting-edge technologies that merge the physical and virtual worlds. Using tools such as extended reality (XR), real-time game engines, and head-mounted displays, the immersive research stage will create highly realistic environments where human behaviour and interactions can be studied and tested.
Officials say the Durham College secures $2M funding for immersive research stage initiative will directly benefit both students and local industries. By working with industry-standard tools, students will gain hands-on experience in areas such as virtual production, motion capture, and augmented reality, helping them develop skills that are increasingly in demand in today’s job market.
Debbie McKee Demczyk, Associate Vice-President of Innovation and Research at Durham College, emphasized the importance of the funding, noting that it allows the institution to expand its applied research capabilities. She highlighted that the project will not only enhance student learning but also provide a platform for industry partners to innovate, test, and scale new products and services.
The immersive stage will also integrate with other advanced research centres at Durham College, including the AI Hub, Cybersecurity Innovation Centre, and Social Impact Hub. This interconnected ecosystem will support collaboration across multiple disciplines, enabling the development of real-world solutions in fields such as digital entertainment, training simulations, and emergency response.
Over the next five years, the facility is expected to support 40 industry partnerships, produce more than 30 innovative tools and workflows, and contribute to the creation of at least 20 new products. These outcomes are anticipated to generate new jobs and strengthen the local economy, further establishing Durham Region as a leader in digital media and technology.
Jason Hunter, Senior Manager of the Mixed Reality Capture Studio, noted that the new stage will provide companies with a unique opportunity to experiment with immersive technologies in a controlled environment. At the same time, it will equip students with practical experience that prepares them for careers in rapidly evolving industries.
Durham Regional Chair John Henry also welcomed the announcement, stating that the investment strengthens the region’s position as a film and digital media hub. He emphasized that access to advanced tools and research facilities will help local businesses grow while supporting a strong talent pipeline.
The Durham College secures $2M funding for immersive research stage project represents a significant milestone for both education and innovation in Oshawa. As construction moves forward, the new facility is expected to play a key role in shaping the future of immersive technology and workforce development in Durham Region.
