SFU's Financial Framework

At Simon Fraser University, responsible financial management supports academic, research and operational excellence. By strategically allocating and managing resources, we aim to advance our academic mission and strategic priorities, while ensuring long-term financial sustainability.

Financial decision making

Aligning financial decisions with SFU’s strategic plan

Our institutional strategy shapes how we prioritize projects, allocate resources, and measure success, ensuring every dollar we spend advances excellence, inclusion, and sustainability.

Budget approach

Our annual operating budget outlines how and where SFU directs resources. Expenses in the operating budget are guided by What’s Next: The SFU Strategy. We also ensure that financial resources help advance priorities such as the international enrolment initiatives, strategic technology investments, research and innovation and Reconciliation. See the budget FAQ for more information about SFU's budget.

Revenue sources

SFU’s funding comes from multiple sources, each of which is important for supporting our programs and priorities – some of the key sources of revenues are:

Government funding

Provincial grants account for 54% of the total operating revenues in the 2026–27 budget. The increase is primarily due to increased provincial grant revenues for the new School of Medicine (SoM) as operations continue to ramp up and restrictions for capital and technology projects provide relief from future budget pressures.

SFU also receives a small amount of federal government funding in its operating revenues to support indirect costs of research and other programs.

Tuition and student fees

Tuition makes up $310.6 million of the university’s revenue in 2026-27 budget. Domestic tuition growth is capped at 2%, while international tuition rates are adjusted to market conditions, reflecting that there is no provincial funding for international enrolments.

Research grants and contracts

SFU secures federal agency funding (e.g., NSERC, SSHRC, CIHR) and partnerships with industry and non-profits to expand research opportunities, drive innovation, and enhance the student experience through research involvement.

Investment income

Our active investment portfolio generates additional revenue, enabling us to support student services, academic activities and campus improvements. SFU's responsible investment approach and favourable market conditions provide strong investment returns.

Donations and endowments

These contributions support scholarships, research, and major capital projects that benefit both current and future students and cannot be used for other items. Funds not used are carried into future years for the designated purpose.

Investments

Responsible investment approach

SFU follows Responsible Investment (B10.16) and Investment Governance (B10.09) policies that incorporate Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards. SFU completed fossil fuel divestment in June 2025, with a commitment to maintain this position going forward.

ESG integration

SFU aligns with the UN Principles for Responsible Investment and typically engages external investment managers experienced in ESG-focused portfolios. This balanced approach prioritizes sound financial returns while reflecting SFU’s sustainability and social-responsibility values.

Impact measurement

Tools like the Investment Portfolio Carbon Footprint Report and regular ESG assessments help track and improve the portfolio’s environmental and social performance. SFU also supports local impact by investing in mission-driven funds such as the Vancity Community Investment Bank (VCIB).

Annual performance reports

SFU discloses its investment progress in Custodial Statements of Endowment Investments, Annual Financial Reports, and periodic policy reviews/consultations. These updates detail portfolio performance, carbon reductions, and policy adjustments that keep SFU’s investment strategy aligned with its academic mission and sustainability goals.

To learn more about SFU’s investment policies, ESG considerations, and consultation opportunities, visit SFU Finance: Responsible Investments.

Key financial terms and concepts

Learn more about the most common budget and finance terms, such as operating funds, restricted funds, surplus and endowments and more. These core concepts will help you better interpret SFU’s budget documents.

Finance