Federal funding grants $2.2M to Quebec’s CNIMI

DRUMMONDVILLE — Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions is holding a series of announcements on financial contributions totalling $13,616,099 in investments in manufacturing businesses and the organizations that support them.

On Feb. 10, Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages, announced financial support totalling $2,220,000 for the Centre national intégré du manufacturier intelligent (CNIMI) propelled by the Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières and the Cégep de Drummondville. The assistance, provided as a non-repayable contribution, will be used to acquire, install and program digital technologies and innovative equipment, as well as to purchase and install software.

Located in Drummondville, the CNIMI aims mainly to support manufacturing businesses as they digitize their operations and move to Industry 4.0. To do so, it plans to equip itself with a technological showcase to be able to compare the operation of a smart factory with that of a traditional factory. This project will enable manufacturers to adopt and integrate innovative digital technologies within their operations, thereby enhancing their competitiveness.

The manufacturing industry is a major contributor to Quebec’s economic growth, providing many jobs. It represents a key link in regional economic development.

“We are continuing to work with innovative manufacturers to give them the tools they need to develop innovative technologies and processes, to the benefit of Quebec’s workers and regions. Thanks to the Government of Canada’s support, they can leverage innovation, a veritable economic engine and pillar of growth, to stimulate the local economy and create good jobs in their region. As such, our manufacturing businesses are in a better position to prepare for the post-COVID-19 recovery.” said Mélanie Joly, Member of Parliament for Ahuntsic-Cartierville.