Government of Canada announces support to help a New Brunswick company modernize, compete, and reach new markets
News release
Protecting New Brunswick’s economy by opening new pathways to opportunity and growth
March 5, 2026 · Clair, New Brunswick · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)
Economic headwinds from tariffs, rising input costs, and supply chain disruptions are forcing Canadian firms to adapt quickly in a changing global economy. Businesses in New Brunswick are making upgrades to boost productivity and expand capacity while keeping costs down. By helping companies strengthen supply chains and adopt the technologies they need to compete, the Government of Canada is building Atlantic Canada’s industrial capacity and supporting good jobs across the region.
Today, Guillaume Deschênes-Thériault, Member of Parliament for Madawaska-Restigouche, announced a federal investment through the Regional Tariff Response Initiative to support Max Steel Inc. in Clair, New Brunswick ($750,000). The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency.
This investment will support Max Steel Inc. as it adopts new technology, helping the company strengthen the supply chain in the steel sector, while integrating modern production technologies and improving efficiency.
Today’s announcement demonstrates the Government of Canada’s commitment to building a stronger economy to make life more affordable and helping Canadian businesses succeed in a more uncertain global economy. By investing in productivity, innovation, and stronger supply chains, firms have access to the support they need to adapt, modernize, and pursue new market opportunities.
Quotes
“When we invest in the productivity of Atlantic Canadian businesses, we are sharpening Canada’s competitive edge. The Regional Tariff Response Initiative provides the tools local companies need to modernize their operations and build the strength required to thrive in a changing global marketplace.”
- The Honourable Sean Fraser, P.C., K.C., Member of Parliament for Central Nova, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
“This announcement demonstrates the strength and potential of our local businesses. Max Steel continues to show that we can innovate, create quality jobs, and build a more resilient economy right here in northwestern New Brunswick.”
- Guillaume Deschênes-Thériault, Member of Parliament for Madawaska-Restigouche
“The support from ACOA and the Government of Canada comes at a strategic time for our company. With this backing, we can accelerate our modernization, integrate cutting-edge automated technologies, and strengthen our competitiveness in the face of current business challenges. This investment will not only improve our productivity but also create and maintain skilled jobs right here in New Brunswick. We are proud to be able to count on partners who believe in the resilience and growth potential of manufacturing SMEs in our region.”
- François Bossé, Chief Executive Officer, Max Steel Inc.
Quick facts
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Max Steel Inc., founded in 1987, is recognized as a regional leader in the design, fabrication, welding, and laser and plasma cutting of steel structures.
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The Regional Tariff Response Initiative is a $1 billion national investment to help Canadian businesses respond to global trade pressures, strengthen productivity, and build long-term competitiveness.
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In Atlantic Canada, ACOA is delivering $80 million under the Regional Tariff Response Initiative to support small and medium-sized enterprises as they modernize operations, strengthen supply chains, and pursue new market opportunities.
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By strengthening productivity and stabilizing supply chains, projects like this help support good jobs in Canada’s steel sector and the communities that rely on them.
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The Regional Tariff Response Initiative works alongside the new $500 million Strategic Response Fund and is part of a broader suite of federal measures to help Canadian businesses adapt to trade disruptions and market uncertainty.
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The Regional Tariff Response Initiative includes targeted funding for key areas of Canada’s economy, including up to $150 million to support the steel sector, $150 million to strengthen domestic food production and supply chains, and up to $100 million to support the automotive sector, helping businesses build capacity, modernize operations, and strengthen supply chain resilience.
Associated links
- Prime Minister Carney launches new strategy to transform Canada’s auto industry | Prime Minister of Canada
- Prime Minister Carney announces new measures to make groceries and other essentials more affordable for Canadians | Prime Minister of Canada
- Learn more about the Regional Tariff Response Initiative in Atlantic Canada
- Canada-United States: Overview and federal supports - Canada.ca
- Resources and tools for Canadian exporters facing U.S. tariffs - Tradecommissioner.gc.ca
- Max Steel Inc.
Contacts
Lola Dandybaeva
Manager of Media Relations
Office of the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
lola.dandybaeva@justice.gc.ca
Samantha Michaud
Senior Communications Officer
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
Samantha.Michaud@acoa-apeca.gc.ca
François Bossé
Chief Executive Officer
Max Steel Inc.
frank.bosse@maxsteeldesign.ca
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