Ontario, Canada Drives Innovation in the Automotive Sector

Applications open for the Ontario Automotive Modernization Program while province showcases leadership in autonomous vehicle development

Toronto — The Ontario government is launching the next round of applications for the Ontario Automotive Modernization Program (O-AMP). An important part of the government’s Driving Prosperity auto plan, the $10-million O-AMP provides auto parts companies with funding to invest in new technologies and support innovation in Ontario’s automotive supply chains.

The announcement was made today 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’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 it faster, easier, and more cost-effective to do business in the province, which will position us for success and bring jobs to Ontario as the global economy recovers,” said Minister Fedeli. “Ontario’s auto sector has been front and centre in the fight against COVID-19, with many companies retooling their operations to make emergency supplies. The auto industry, a mainstay of advanced manufacturing and innovation, will continue to be instrumental as we implement our made-in-Ontario plan for renewal, growth and economic recovery.”

Quick Facts

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.
Ontario was the first province in Canada to allow the testing of automated vehicles on its roads.
Global leaders including GM, Ford, BlackBerry QNX, Uber and Renesas have invested over $1 billion in the development of connected and autonomous vehicle technologies in Ontario.
Ontario is the only place in North America where five major automakers build vehicles — Fiat Chrysler, Ford, General Motors, Honda, Toyota — as well as truck manufacturer Hino.
Ontario is creating a new investment attraction agency, Invest Ontario, to support strategic domestic firms and attract business from around the world to create good jobs.