Applications for the Ontario Automotive Modernization Program open

The Ontario government has initiated the next round of applications for the Ontario Automobile Modernization Program (O-AMP). As an important part of the government's plan to promote a prosperous automobile, O-AMP, which cost 10 million Canadian dollars, provides auto parts companies with funds to invest in new technologies and support innovation in Ontario's automotive supply chain.

O-AMP supports manufacturing technology adoption and/or adoption of lean manufacturing processes. Funding covers up to 50 per cent of eligible project costs up to $100,000, with recipient companies contributing the remainder through their own resources.

The announcement was made by Vic Fedeli, Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade, while leading an online delegation of 10 Ontario connected and autonomous vehicle (C/AV) companies to TU-Automotive Detroit, one of the world’s largest events dedicated to connected vehicle technologies. The Ontario delegation is showcasing the province’s leadership in areas such as artificial intelligence, sensors and imaging, cybersecurity, data analytics, the Internet of Things and smart infrastructure.

“Ontario is uniquely positioned to lead the development of the next generation of vehicles when you consider that we have North America’s second-largest IT cluster and are the continent’s number two auto producer,” said Minister Fedeli. “With more than 250 companies and organizations active in the development of connected and autonomous vehicle technologies, many of the world’s leading companies are developing the transportation solutions of the future right here in our province.”

Ontario was the first province in Canada to allow the testing of automated vehicles on its roads. And companies such as GM, Ford, BlackBerry QNX, Uber and Renesas have invested over $1 billion in the development of connected and autonomous vehicle technologies in Ontario.

Ontario’s Autonomous Vehicle Innovation Network (AVIN) connects the province’s world-leading automotive and technology sectors, high-quality post-secondary institutions, first-class talent and regional infrastructure to support entrepreneurship and create jobs.

The Ontario government will continue to promote the innovation of the Ontario advanced manufacturing sector through its support for the Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters’ Ontario Made program. As the province reopens and continues down the path to economic recovery, the government is supporting Ontario’s world-class manufacturing sector and its workers.

"Our government has made production faster, easier, and more cost-effective. Doing business in the province will allow us to succeed and serve as Ontario as the global economy recovers. Bring employment opportunities," Minister Federley said. “Ontario’s automotive industry has always been the front and center of the fight against COVID-19. Many companies have restructured their businesses to manufacture emergency supplies. The automotive industry is the backbone of advanced manufacturing and innovation. We are implementing the renewal, growth and economic recovery plan for manufacturing in Ontario. It will continue to play an important role at the time."