Since 1987, the Guelph Turfgrass Institute (GTI) has delivered turfgrass research, education, and outreach. For nearly four decades, students, researchers, and industry professionals have come together at the GTI to advance the science and practice of turfgrass management, developing solutions that benefit golf courses, sports fields, parks, sod farms, municipalities, and homeowners across Canada.
Thanks to the generosity of our alumni, industry partners, and donors, the new G.M. Frost Centre has transformed the way we teach, collaborate, and share knowledge. The modern facility has become a hub for classrooms, meetings, conferences, and research collaboration. But one critical piece of the vision is still missing.
The Technology Transfer Facility
Our next priority is the construction of the Technology Transfer Facility—a building that will become the operational heart of the GTI.
While the G.M. Frost Centre provides outstanding space for learning and collaboration, the Technology Transfer Facility will provide the infrastructure needed to put that knowledge into practice. The new facility will:
- Support the daily maintenance and care of the GTI's research plots.
- Provide dedicated space for students to gain hands-on experience with turfgrass equipment and maintenance practices.
- Host equipment demonstrations, industry workshops, and continuing education programs.
- Create opportunities for researchers, manufacturers, and turf professionals to evaluate and showcase new technologies.
This is much more than a maintenance building. It is where research becomes practice, innovation becomes education, and students become industry leaders.
Why It Matters
Every day, the GTI's research fields generate knowledge that helps improve the sustainability, playability, and environmental stewardship of managed turfgrass. The Technology Transfer Facility will provide the equipment storage, workshop space, and operational support required to care for these living laboratories while creating an environment where students and industry professionals can learn by doing.
Whether it's demonstrating precision application technologies, evaluating autonomous equipment, training students on modern maintenance practices, or hosting equipment manufacturers for field demonstrations, this facility will become a centre for innovation and practical learning.
Invest in the Future
We are inviting visionary donors, industry leaders, alumni, and strategic partners to help complete the GTI campus by supporting the Technology Transfer Facility. Your investment will help train the next generation of turfgrass professionals while ensuring the GTI continues to deliver world-class research, education, and outreach for decades to come. As a donor, you will:
- Champion independent, science-based turfgrass research at the University of Guelph.
- Demonstrate leadership and commitment to the Canadian turfgrass industry.
- Help provide hands-on learning opportunities for students and professionals.
- Leave a lasting legacy through meaningful donor recognition.
The University of Guelph is a registered charitable organization. Charitable tax receipts are issued for eligible gifts, and pledge commitments can be spread over as many as five years.
Recognition Opportunities
We are proud to acknowledge our partners through:
- Recognition within the new GTI property, GTI website, and other communications
- Acknowledgement at GTI events and special celebrations
- Charitable tax receipts for eligible gifts
| Recognition Level | Gift Amount |
|---|---|
| Leader | $200,000+ |
| Patron | $100,000–$199,999 |
| Supporter | $25,000–$99,999 |
| Sponsor | $10,000–$24,999 |
| Friend | Up to $9,999 |
Raise the Roof. Grow the Future.
With your support, the Technology Transfer Facility will become the place where ideas leave the research plot, students gain hands-on experience, and innovation reaches the professionals who put it into practice every day. Together, we can complete the vision for Canada's flagship turfgrass research and education centre.
For more details, please contact us at GTI@uoguelph.ca
Donations can be made directly to the Guelph Turfgrass Institute Tech Transfer Facility Capital Fund at: uoguel.ph/techtransfer
