FedNor invests close to $400,000 to upgrade and expand Northern College’s Innovation Hub
News release
Federal funding will help businesses increase their manufacturing and production capabilities
June 8, 2023 – Timmins, ON – Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario – FedNor
Today, the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for FedNor, announced a non-repayable FedNor investment of $391,428 to help Northern College upgrade and expand its Additive Manufacturing Lab. This strategic initiative will help local businesses increase their manufacturing and production capabilities, while avoiding delays caused by sourcing parts from outside of the region.
Provided through FedNor’s Northern Ontario Development Program, this targeted investment is being used to retrofit existing space within Northern College’s Innovation Hub to accommodate the expansion of its Additive Manufacturing Lab. The funding will also support the purchase of a specialized scanner, 3D modeling computer and large-scale 3D fused deposition modelling (FDM) and resin printers to help businesses develop, prototype, and pilot innovative products. These strategic upgrades will also allow the College support the healthcare industry by printing highly detailed components with medical grade resins for dental, audiology and more.
As part of the project, Northern College will also work with its public and private sector partners to pursue alternative energy solutions and reduce carbon emissions in the mining sector by producing lighter vehicle components, including parts used in electric vehicles to extend battery life.
Quotes
"Northern College’s Innovation Centre is driving our economy forward by connecting industry and businesses with local resources so they can develop prototypes, streamline manufacturing, and bring new products to market. I’m pleased this $391,428 investment will be help expand the Additive Manufacturing Lab and introduce large-scale 3D technology to Northeastern Ontario. This priority project will help usher in a new era for technology and innovation, while paving the way for jobs, growth, and breakthroughs in key sectors such as mining, manufacturing, clean energy and more."
- The Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for FedNor
"We are thrilled this partnership project will help us meet the evolving innovation needs of businesses and organizations here in Timmins and across the region. Once fully operational, the expanded Additive Manufacturing Lab will enhance industry competitiveness and boost economic development, while serving as an experiential learning and resource hub for our students and the community. With the official opening just around the corner, it soon be easier develop new knowledge so we can grow our economy through innovation."
- Audrey J. Penner, Northern College President & CEO
Quick facts
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The funding announced today is provided through FedNor’s Northern Ontario Development Program, which supports projects led by municipalities, First Nations, and other organizations and institutions that promote sustainable community economic development, diversification, job creation, and self-reliant communities.
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Northern College of Applied Arts and Technology has four campuses in northeastern Ontario: Timmins, Moosonee, Kirkland Lake, and Haileybury. To support its 8,400 full, part-time, and continuing education students, the College employs over 400 faculty, support, and administrative staff. Educational content is delivered in-class, via videoconference, and online.
Associated links
Contacts
Zeus Eden
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Patty Hajdu
Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for FedNor
Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario
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