CME invests in advanced manufacturing technologies to automate production and reduce environmental footprint

TORONTO — Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters (CME) launched the Technology Investment Program, designed to help small- and medium-sized southern Ontario manufacturers compete on the global stage by investing in advanced manufacturing technologies to automate production and reduce their environmental footprint.

Funded by the Government of Canada through the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario), this program provides direct financial assistance to eligible manufacturers in the form of a matching contribution of up to $50,000 to support their investment in long-term production assets and technology.

“Ontario’s manufacturing industry is the engine that drives our national economy and our Government is investing in the people that make it run. By making smart investments across supply chains, we will work together to grow local economies, create good paying jobs for our communities, and ensure a healthy environment for generations,” said Filomena Tassi, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario.

When comparing trends in Canada to those south of the border, Ontario manufacturers remain slow adopters of advanced manufacturing technology. In the US manufacturing sector, machinery and equipment investment increased by a total of 34 per cent between 2004 and 2021 but fell by 14.8 per cent in Ontario.

“CME’s Technology Investment Program will help Ontario manufacturers with the tools needed to compete on the global stage. By investing in advanced manufacturing technologies, manufacturers will be better able to serve customers at home and around the world. We are so pleased that FedDev Ontario has taken a leading role in helping hundreds of SME manufacturers invest in their future,” said Dennis Darby, President and CEO of CME.