Fostering innovation and cutting edge research and development in Northern Ontario
News release
Government of Canada support aimed at commercializing new technologies and creating business opportunities
March 23, 2018 – Sudbury, ON – Federal Economic Development Initiative for Northern Ontario - FedNor
Local innovative businesses and job creators will benefit from new programming and equipment provided by the Northern Centre for Advanced Technology (NORCAT) thanks to a Government of Canada investment of $305,000. This FedNor investment will be used by NORCAT to implement phase two of its Innovation Acceleration Program, as well as purchase an automatic injection molding machine to increase manufacturing capacity in the region.
Marc Serré, Member of Parliament for Nickel Belt, was joined by Paul Lefebvre, Member of Parliament for Sudbury, to make the announcement today on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, and Minister responsible for FedNor.
NORCAT’s Innovation Acceleration Program is designed to help high-tech businesses improve productivity and competitiveness through the use of innovative technologies, processes or practices. Eligible companies can received up to $10,000 in non-repayable funding for services or direct costs for innovation-related product development such as software and application development, product testing and certification. This second phase of the program is being supported by a FedNor investment of $205,000.
The remaining $100,000 will be used by NORCAT to purchase a new injection molding machine, capable of processing a wide range of materials such as thermoplastic, thermoset, elastomer, liquid silicone rubber and rigid PVC. This cutting-edge equipment will help local firms increase competitiveness and reduce the need to access resources outside the region for mold making and part production. This initiative will also help enhance skills training in the North by providing opportunities for local engineers to learn about mold making and injection molding.
Quotes
“Today’s announcement supports our government’s Innovation and Skills Plan by providing the resources and cutting-edge equipment local businesses need to adopt innovation and improve productivity. I am pleased that this FedNor investment will help modernize Northern Ontario’s manufacturing sector, while creating jobs and new opportunities for local firms.”
- Marc Serré, Member of Parliament for Nickel Bel
“With this investment in NORCAT, the Government of Canada is helping Northern Ontario businesses become more innovative and competitive through the adoption and commercialization of new technologies. This strategic investment will provide a significant boost to local businesses by helping them to embrace innovation and produce custom products and materials right here in the region.”
- Paul Lefebvre, Member of Parliament for Sudbury
“NORCAT is proud to partner the Government of Canada, through FedNor, to ensure technology, innovation and skills training can continue to thrive in the region. As Northern Ontario's largest innovation centre, we are thrilled to extend our Innovation Acceleration Program and excited to have an automatic injection molding machine within the Fortin Discovery Lab to support the commercialization of new components used in industrial, medical, and consumer products.”
- Don Duval, CEO, NORCAT
Quick facts
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The funding announced today is provided through FedNor’s Northern Ontario Development Program, which supports projects that promote sustainable community economic development, enhance business development and growth, and facilitate innovation throughout the region.
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NORCAT is focused on developing and providing world-class programs, services, and resources to reduce injuries, save lives, and enhance productivity in the mining industry and beyond. In addition, NORCAT is the only non-profit regional innovation centre in the world that has an operating mine designed to enable start-ups, small and medium-sized enterprises, and international companies to develop, test, and showcase new and innovative technologies in an operating mine environment.
Associated links
Contacts
Barclay Babcock
Communications Officer
FedNor
705-690-0957
barclay.babcock@canada.ca
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