REGI — Targeted Manufacturing Initiative for Northern Ontario
ON, Canada
Funding for manufacturers in Northern Ontario
grant_single_labels|summary
grant_single|eligibleFinancing
- grant_single|projectCostPercent
grant_single|deadlines
- grant_single|timelineUnspecified
grant_single|financingType
Grant and Funding
grant_single|eligibleIndustries
- Manufacturing
grant_single|grantors
- Government of Canada
- Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario (FEDNOR)
grant_single|status
grant_card_status|open
grant_single_labels|preview
Get a repayable contribution to increase efficiency, modernize your facilities or increase export sales for your SME manufacturing business.
grant_single_labels|projects
This grant supports manufacturers situated in Northern Ontario to align with the growth goals of the region. The aid focuses exclusively on this geographical area to enhance local economic development.
- Manufacturers based in Northern Ontario.
grant_single|admissibleProjectsExample
$150,000
Implement a new automated packaging line to boost production capacity
$120,000
Modernize production facility with energy-efficient equipment to reduce operational costs
$100,000
Upgrade CNC machines to include the latest software for enhanced precision and productivity
$200,000
Upgrade manufacturing line with automated robotics and software integration to enhance productivity
$130,000
Introduce lean manufacturing processes to reduce waste and improve efficiency
$100,000
Renovate facility to include automated quality control systems and operator training
grant_single_labels|admissibility
Eligibility for this grant is determined by specific requirements related to the applicant's business operations and location.
- The applicant must be an established manufacturer.
- The manufacturer must be located in Northern Ontario.
- The primary line of business must be the manufacture of a commercial product.
- The business must be planning for growth.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply
Eligible applicants are established manufacturers located in Northern Ontario. For further clarity, established manufacturers means firms currently operating, whose primary line of business is the manufacture of a commercial product and that are planning for growth.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_cannot_apply
This grant is focused on supporting established manufacturers in Northern Ontario, and as such, companies outside this scope are not eligible. This ensures that the funding is directed toward manufacturers whose primary business is producing commercial products.
- Companies not located in Northern Ontario.
- Businesses whose primary activity is not manufacturing a commercial product.
grant_eligibility_criteria|eligible_expenses
This grant supports the modernization and enhancement of manufacturing processes to increase productivity and competitiveness in Northern Ontario's manufacturing sector. Eligible activities focus on upgrading equipment and implementing operational improvements that lead to enhanced manufacturing capabilities.
- Improving and modernizing the manufacturing process to boost productivity and competitiveness.
- Purchases of plant equipment, including digital hardware and software integral to the manufacturing process.
- Installation and commissioning of new manufacturing equipment.
- Training on the utilization of new equipment.
- Implementing recommendations from operational assessments, such as lean manufacturing, ISO certification, quality controls, and ICT improvements.
- Upgrading and modernizing production facilities, including automation and robotics.
grant_eligibility_criteria|zone
The grant covers various expenses that are directly related to the project's execution and aims to modernize manufacturing processes.
- Plant equipment purchases, including digital hardware and software that are a direct part of the manufacturing process.
- Installation and commissioning of new equipment.
- Training on the use of new equipment.
- Implementation of recommendations from an Operational Assessment, such as lean manufacturing, ISO certification, quality controls, information and communications technology, or other operational and managerial improvements.
- Modernizing the production facility through upgrades to existing production equipment (e.g., automation, robotics, ancillary systems).
grant_single_labels|criteria
The evaluation and selection of projects for this grant are based on specific criteria with a focus on the project's contribution to FedNor's objectives for enhancing manufacturing in Northern Ontario.
- Project's potential to enhance manufacturing capability and efficiently modernize the production facilities.
- Contribution to creating a modernized and competitive manufacturing sector in Northern Ontario.
- Increase in export sales and profitability as a result of the project.
- Comprehensive work plan detailing productivity improvements or equipment upgrades, including clear milestones and timelines.
- Evidence of operational capacity to implement the project successfully based on past financial performance and results.
- Reasonable forecast results demonstrating how the project will benefit the business operations with target performance measures.
- Identification and articulation of the project's expected benefits for Northern Ontario.
grant_single_labels|register
Here are the steps to submit an application for this grant:
- Step 1: Contact a FedNor Officer
- Call FedNor at 1-877-333-6673 to discuss your project proposal with a FedNor Officer.
- Consult with the officer to understand the current budget availability and receive guidance on your eligibility and application process.
- Step 2: Prepare Your Proposal
- Develop a work plan detailing the productivity improvement or equipment upgrade, including milestones and timelines.
- Explain how the project will enhance competitiveness and productivity.
- Provide financial statements for the past three years along with interim statements if applicable.
- Include a review of the competitive landscape and how the project will benefit business operations with performance measures and forecasts.
- Step 3: Submit Your Application
- Submit your completed application along with all required documentation to FedNor for assessment.
- Be attentive to any specific submission instructions provided by FedNor.
grant_single_labels|otherInfo
Here are additional relevant details for this grant:
- Funding assistance is generally repayable for SMEs.
- FedNor typically contributes up to 33% of eligible capital costs and up to 50% of eligible non-capital costs.
- Costs incurred before application approval are generally ineligible for reimbursement unless written consent is given by FedNor.
- Project benefits must accrue to Northern Ontario to be considered eligible.
- An overview of how the competitive landscape was reviewed must be included in the application.
grant_single_labels|contact
1-877-333-6673
Apply to this program
Boost Northern Ontario's Manufacturing Competitiveness
This grant offers financial assistance to established manufacturers in Northern Ontario seeking to enhance production capabilities to drive economic growth through innovation. It targets initiatives aimed at modernizing and improving manufacturing processes to boost regional competitiveness and productivity.
Detailed Insights into FedNor’s Grant Program for Manufacturers
The FedNor grant, under the Regional Economic Growth through Innovation program, is designed to strategically bolster the manufacturing sector in Northern Ontario, a region known for its robust industrial heritage. With Northern Ontario facing unique economic challenges and opportunities, this funding initiative focuses on seasoned manufacturers eager to upgrade and innovate. By doing so, FedNor not only addresses the immediate economic needs of the region but also sets the stage for sustainable economic development and increased global competitiveness.
The FedNor grant provides an impressive avenue for manufacturers to invest in cutting-edge technology and equipment essential for contemporary manufacturing processes. Eligible uses for the grant include the acquisition of advanced plant equipment integral to the manufacturing workflow, such as the latest digital hardware and software. These investments are pivotal in transforming traditional manufacturing operations into efficient, agile, and technically superior processes.
Moreover, the grant places a strong emphasis on the installation and commissioning of new equipment and the crucial training necessary for effective utilization. This ensures that manufacturers can seamlessly integrate new technologies, achieving swift improvements in operational productivity and output quality. By prioritizing training, FedNor helps ensure that employees are well-equipped to handle technological advancements, thereby minimizing downtime and optimizing production.
Another significant aspect of the grant is its support for implementing recommendations from comprehensive Operational Assessments. Such assessments provide a roadmap to adopting best practices in lean manufacturing, securing ISO certification, enhancing quality controls, and upgrading information and communications technology frameworks. These enhancements lead to streamlined operations that are not only more efficient but are also aligned with international standards and practices, thereby improving the sector’s overall competitiveness.
It’s critical, however, for applicants to present a detailed work plan that outlines the specific improvements or upgrades proposed, along with marked milestones and timelines. This ensures that FedNor’s investment is directed towards projects with a clear vision and actionable pathway that contribute substantial value to the company and the broader economy of Northern Ontario. Transparent evidence of financial capability and strategic foresight in project implementation further strengthens a manufacturer’s application.
FedNor's assistance, while substantial, is partial and repayable. The program typically covers a substantial percentage of eligible costs but necessitates that manufacturers demonstrate financial readiness to support the remaining project expenses. This strategic funding model ensures that beneficiaries have significant stakeholder investment, which is crucial for rigorous adherence to project goals and timelines.
Finally, it should be underscored that the grant program is highly competitive due to the extensive demand and limited budget availability. This means that engaging with a FedNor officer before application submission is not just recommended, but essential. This initial discussion not only helps clarify project eligibility but also provides potential applicants with critical guidance on how to optimize their proposals to meet the program's stringent criteria.
In summary, the FedNor grant represents a crucial lifeline for Northern Ontario manufacturers aiming to innovate and elevate their operations. It provides the necessary financial and technical support to transform manufacturing capabilities, fostering a regionally competitive market poised to make impactful contributions on the national and international stage. Participating in this program is a strategic move towards sustainable growth and enhanced economic resilience for manufacturing entities in Northern Ontario.
