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 1.5 million learners of all ages and backgrounds at campuses serving over 3,000 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.

Strategic Plan

In October 2013, the Board of Directors of Colleges and Institutes Canada (then ACCC) approved a new Strategic Plan that has led the Association into new territory, and building on past successes in order to better serve members and contribute to a stronger Canada.

Vision, Mission and Values

Colleges and Institutes Canada’s strategic plan is based on four principles: Champion, Lead, Partner, and Excel.

Champion: Targeted advocacy to enhance policies, programs, resources and strategies to capitalize on the excellence of members as the key providers of advanced skills and applied research for social and economic development

Lead: To be at the forefront of innovation, trends and research

Partner: Build strategic partnerships that support the advanced skills needs of Canada and the world for social and economic transformation.

Excel: Pursue organizational excellence to better serve members and be an employer of choice.