Government of Canada is helping to protect, build and transform the auto industry
News release
FedDev Ontario invests up to $9.3 million for Kumi Canada Corporation to modernize operations and adopt advanced technologies to enhance competitiveness
February 9, 2026 - Bradford, ON
Canada has one of the most productive and innovative automotive sectors in the world, supported by a highly skilled workforce, a strong industrial base, and decades of leadership in advanced manufacturing. To sustain that leadership, the Government of Canada is focused on supporting the suppliers and manufacturers who form the backbone of this sector—helping them navigate tariff pressures, strengthen their operations, and enhance competitiveness in a rapidly evolving global market.
The Government of Canada’s new auto strategy, launched by the Prime Minister, will ensure a stronger, more sustainable, more independent economy built on the solid foundation of strong Canadian industries and bolstered by diverse international trade partners. It contains strategic measures, including the investments through the Regional Tarriff Response Initiative, to support businesses impacted by tariffs across all affected sectors, including those in the automotive sector.
Today, the Honourable Evan Solomon, Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario), visited Kumi Canada Corporation, a leading supplier of injection molding and assembly products for the automotive sector. While there, the Minister announced the company has been approved for an investment of up to $9.3 million to modernize its operations through the adoption of new advanced technologies, which will position the company for future growth, contribute to improved domestic supply chain resilience and mitigate cost pressures linked to tariffs.
Through the Regional Tariff Response Initiative, automotive suppliers can receive support to adapt to shifting market conditions, undertake time‑sensitive modernization projects, and keep pace with rapid industry change while contributing meaningfully to Canada’s automotive sector and economy.
Through the strategy and support for the auto sector, the Government of Canada is investing in technologies and capabilities that bolster resilience, address tariff pressures, and strengthen the automotive industry of tomorrow.
Quotes
“Our new auto strategy will integrate emerging technologies into our existing supply chains to support jobs and business across Canada. The auto sector in southern Ontario is a critical part of our economy and the businesses and workers that support it are top of mind. I'm thrilled to see this renewed strategy integrate emerging technologies and keep Canada as a leader in autos. I’m thrilled to support Kumi as they support the supply chain for autos in southern Ontario."
- The Honourable Evan Solomon, Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario
“Kumi Canada Corporation is a class-leading manufacturer of automotive plastics, and a proud citizen of the Bradford area since 1998. This contribution from FedDev Ontario will allow Kumi to continue making significant investments in machinery and automation, and most importantly—to secure the future of our associates and our community. FedDev Ontario is helping us sustain our Canadian competitive advantage in the face of the challenges presented by tariffs. We are grateful for this opportunity to drive jobs, advanced technology, and strengthen the future of manufacturing in Canada."
- Justin Moreau, President, Kumi Canada Corporation
Quick facts
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Canada’s auto sector supports over 500,000 workers, contributes over $16 billion annually to Canada’s GDP, and is one of the country’s largest export industries. In 2025, Canada produced over 1.2 million passenger vehicles.
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To accelerate investment in Canada’s auto manufacturing sector, the Government of Canada will allocate $3 billion from the Strategic Response Fund and up to $100 million from the Regional Tariff Response Initiative (RTRI) to help the auto industry adapt, grow, and diversify to new markets. FedDev Ontario is delivering RTRI in southern Ontario. Visit the website to apply.
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This funding builds on a previous $2-million investment that helped Kumi Canada adopt advanced energy-efficient equipment and create jobs as the company was expanding its Bradford facility by 60,000 square-feet.
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Incorporated in 1998, Kumi Canada Corporation is a Tier 1 automotive parts manufacturer specializing in plastic injection-molded interior components for automotive original equipment manufacturers.
Associated links
Contacts
Sofia Ouslis
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Artificial Intelligence, Digital Innovation and the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario
sofia.ouslis@ised-isde.gc.ca
Media Relations
FedDev Ontario
media@feddevontario.gc.ca
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