Government of Canada is helping to protect, build and transform the auto industry
News release
FedDev Ontario invests over $1.6 million for MVA Stratford and Armo Tool to adopt advanced technologies and enhance competitiveness
March 19, 2026 - Stratford, Ontario
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, Peter Fragiskatos, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship and Member of Parliament for London Centre on behalf of 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), announced a combined investment of over $1.6 million for two auto manufacturers to modernize their operations and enhance their competitiveness in response to tariff-related market volatility.
This includes an over $886,000 investment in Canadian manufacturer MVA Stratford, to modernize its core production lines through the adoption of new specialized equipment that will strengthen competitiveness and position the company to explore opportunities beyond the U.S. market.
London-based manufacturer, Armo Tool, is receiving an investment of $750,000 to enhance its tooling and manufacturing capabilities, which will bring diversification opportunities in new markets.
Through the Regional Tariff Response Initiative, businesses impacted by tariffs are receiving targeted support to respond to changing market pressures, move forward with modernization efforts, and stay competitive in a rapidly evolving industry. These investments help key sectors, like the automotive sector, continue to play a strong role in Canada’s economy.
The Government of Canada is committed to investing in technologies and capabilities that bolster resilience, address tariff pressures, and strengthen the automotive industry of tomorrow.
Quotes
“Our new auto strategy will help businesses integrate technologies into our existing supply chains to support jobs 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 support MVA Stratford and Armo Tool as they expand their business within the automotive supply chain 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
“Today’s investment in MVA Stratford and Armo Tool will strengthen their roles in Canada’s automotive supply chain. These upgrades will enhance competitiveness, support regional economic growth, and build long-term resilience.”
– Peter Fragiskatos, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship and Member of Parliament for London Centre
“The FedDev Ontario funding comes at a time of significant industry uncertainty, when long-standing partnerships are being tested. This support enables MVA to invest in modern, energy-efficient machinery that secures our current business and strengthens our ability to pursue new opportunities, helping us continue our track record of success in the Stratford community.”
– Eric Wheal, General Manager, MVA Stratford Inc.
“Support from FedDev Ontario allows Armo Tool to accelerate investments in advanced manufacturing technology and workforce training, strengthening our capabilities and opening new opportunities to diversify into additional markets.”
– Ben Whitney, President, Armo Tool
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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Incorporated in 2010, MVA Stratford Inc. is a Canadian manufacturer specializing in plastic injection-molded components and assemblies for the automotive sector.
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Incorporated in 1969, Armo Tool Ltd. is an advanced manufacturer specializing in the custom design and build of automation solutions, precision machining, and fabrication of metal components and assemblies for the automotive, aerospace, defence and industrial sectors.
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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