Toronto, ON – Ontario’s manufacturing sector is seeing a surge in technological breakthroughs, thanks to a $50 million investment by the provincial government through the Ontario Centre of Innovation’s (OCI)Critical Industrial Technologies (CIT) program.
Launched last year, the program has already supported the commercialization of more than 100 emerging technologies across four key industries: advanced manufacturing, agri-food, mining, and construction. With funding still available, OCI President and CEO Claudia Krywiak will be highlighting success stories and new opportunities for Ontario businesses at the upcoming Canadian Manufacturing Technology Show (CMTS) 2025, taking place September 29–October 2 at the Toronto Congress Centre.
Transforming Ontario’s Manufacturing Competitiveness
Through the CIT program, companies can access up to $1 million in collaborative funding or $100,000 in direct support for research and development, equipment purchases, product testing, and workforce upskilling.
“Run, don’t walk, to access these opportunities,” Krywiak said in advance of her CMTS keynote, Critical Technologies, Critical Impact: How Ontario is Powering the Next Industrial Transformation (September 29, 3:30 p.m.).
She emphasized that Ontario businesses are showing unprecedented interest in advanced technologies such as 5G, artificial intelligence, robotics, cybersecurity, blockchain, and quantum computing, all of which are critical to competing on the global stage.
Case Studies: NordSpace and Innovative Automation
Several Ontario companies are already benefiting from the CIT program.
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NordSpace, a Toronto-based aerospace company, is developing innovative additive manufacturing processes for rocket propulsion systems. The funding has allowed NordSpace to establish its new Advanced Manufacturing for Aerospace Lab (AMA Lab), positioning Canada to play a stronger role in the global space economy.
“The Ontario Centre of Innovation (OCI) Critical Industrial Technologies Initiative helped support NordSpace’s establishment of its AMA Lab, marking a significant step towards commercializing our proprietary metal 3D-printed rocket propulsion engines,” said Derrick Chow, Director of Operations at NordSpace.
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Innovative Automation, based in Barrie, is leveraging CIT support to advance robotics, computer vision, and AI-driven manufacturing platforms.
“With funding from the CIT program, we are piloting a new model by helping a customer secure funding for advanced automation equipment, supporting not just with technology, but also the resources to invest,” said Michael Lalonde, President of Innovative Automation.
Supporting SMEs Through Collaboration
Beyond direct funding, OCI acts as a “matchmaker” between businesses and academic talent. The organization connects Ontario companies with post-secondary researchers, provides access to Technology Access Sites for real-world technology trials, and brings together consortiums of companies to tackle sector-wide challenges.
This multi-faceted approach helps smaller and mid-sized enterprises integrate advanced technologies that might otherwise be out of reach. Krywiak noted that this model strengthens Ontario’s industrial base by giving all companies — not just large corporations — tools to innovate and compete.
Why It Matters
Ontario’s manufacturing economy faces new challenges from global trade volatility and shifting supply chains. Programs like CIT are designed to give local businesses the resilience and advanced capabilities needed to adapt.
“Critical advanced technologies are the key to success for companies,” Krywiak said. “To be competitive, Ontario businesses need to adapt, and there are programs in place to support them in doing so.”
CMTS 2025: Showcasing the Future of Manufacturing
Krywiak will deliver her remarks at CMTS 2025, Canada’s largest manufacturing technology event. The show will feature over 750 exhibitors showcasing equipment and innovations in machine tools, automation, robotics, additive manufacturing, and digital transformation. Organizers expect more than 10,000 professionals from industries such as automotive, aerospace, energy, and medical devices to attend.
Presented by SME, CMTS partners include the Canadian Tooling & Machining Association, Canadian Machine Tool Distributors Association, and Automotive Parts Manufacturers’ Association, among others. Industry supporters range from Export Development Canada to the VR/AR Association, underscoring the broad collaboration behind Canada’s push into next-generation manufacturing.
Looking Ahead
With more funding opportunities still available, OCI is encouraging Ontario manufacturers of all sizes to apply. The program’s goal is clear: to ensure that Ontario businesses are not only keeping pace with technological change, but also leading the next wave of global industrial transformation.
For more information or to apply, visit the Ontario Centre of Innovation at www.oc-innovation.ca. To register for CMTS 2025, visit cmts.ca.
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