CME’s Technology Investment Program

CME’s Technology Investment Program offers financial assistance to support long-term production assets and technology investments for manufacturers in Southern Ontario. The funding model is designed to encourage adoption of innovative technologies and efficient project management.

• Matching contribution of up to 50% of eligible costs, with a maximum of $50,000 per project.
• Eligible costs include capital equipment, materials, training on new equipment, installation of new equipment, professional service fees, and direct labour related to the project.
• Initial disbursement of 20% of the approved funding is released after signing the Contribution Agreement.
• Final payment is conditional upon submission and approval of all invoices, supporting documents, and a final report.
• Retroactive projects starting from April 1, 2022, may be eligible, provided they are completed by December 31, 2023.
• No extensions will be granted for expense claims and final reports, which must be submitted by January 15, 2024.

To be eligible for the FedDev Technology Investment Program, companies must meet specific criteria related to their business operations and financial status.

• The company must be a manufacturer based in Southern Ontario per the census map.
• The company must be incorporated, either federally or provincially, for a minimum of 2 years continuously.
• The company must demonstrate financial stability.
• The company must have a workforce with a minimum of 15 and a maximum of 500 full-time employees (FTE) in Southern Ontario.
• The company should not be receiving other contributions toward the activities in the funding application from other government-funded programs, including University or College Funding programs, Export Funding programs, or other related government funding programs.

Who is eligible?

The Technology Investment Program is specifically designed for manufacturers based in Southern Ontario seeking to invest in long-term production assets and technology that enhance productivity and reduce emissions.

• Technology investments that aim to improve and modernize the manufacturing process, leading to increased productivity and competitiveness.
• New additions that reduce environmental footprint.
• Commitment to develop export markets, or be part of the value supply chain, or potential to become a strong global player on a regional or global basis.
• Creation of long-term employment and high-value jobs.

Who is not eligible

This grant excludes certain companies and industries due to their status or main activity. The restrictions ensure funds are allocated to eligible and strategic sectors only.

• Non-manufacturing companies.
• Manufacturers located outside of Southern Ontario.
• Companies with fewer than 15 or more than 500 full-time employees in Southern Ontario.
• Businesses incorporated for less than 2 years.
• Companies receiving other government-funded program contributions for the same activities.

Eligible expenses

Eligible projects for this grant focus on technological advancements and environmental sustainability within the manufacturing sector. These initiatives aim at modernizing production processes, increasing efficiency, and reducing environmental impact.

• Investments in robotics to enhance manufacturing processes.
• Implementation of artificial intelligence and machine learning applications for smarter operations.
• Development of advanced networks and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies.

Eligible geographic areas

This grant is available to manufacturers located in the Southern Ontario region, as determined by the census map. The focus is on supporting businesses within this geographical area to ensure regional economic development.

• Manufacturers based in Southern Ontario, Canada.

The evaluation and selection of projects for this grant are based on specific criteria to ensure alignment with the program’s objectives for improving and modernizing manufacturing processes.

• Technology investments that aim to improve and modernize the manufacturing process, leading to increased productivity and competitiveness.
• New additions that reduce environmental footprint.
• Commitment to develop export markets, or be part of the value supply chain, or potential to become a strong global player on a regional or global basis.
• Creation of long-term employment and high-value jobs.

The program is focused on technology investment to boost competitiveness and environmental sustainability within southern Ontario's manufacturing sector. Funding applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis until the available funds are exhausted.

• Projects must be completed by December 31, 2023, and all reports and expense claims must be submitted by January 15, 2024.
• Only one project per company will be funded.
• Companies must not be receiving other contributions toward the activities in the funding application from other government-funded programs.
• Applications are reviewed within a 45-business day timeframe by CME and Industry Experts.
• 20% of the approved funding is released within 30 business days of signing the contract, with the final payment processed within 30-60 business days after project completion and approval.