Advanced Manufacturing and Innovation Competitiveness Stream

Overview of the Advanced Manufacturing and Innovation Competitiveness Stream program:

The AMIC Stream is part of Ontario’s Regional Development Program (RDP) and supports advanced manufacturers in targeted regions of Ontario by providing funding for strategic growth and modernization. The program is designed to help manufacturers invest in capital equipment, technology adoption, and workforce upskilling to become more competitive both domestically and globally. It is intended for small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) operating in the advanced manufacturing sector. Projects must demonstrate strong economic benefits to the region, such as job creation, investment attraction, productivity improvements, or export growth.

Benefits of the Advanced Manufacturing and Innovation Competitiveness Stream program:

• There are two funding streams:
• Grants Only (SMEs)
• Up to 15% of eligible project costs, to a maximum of $500,000 CAD
• Project must have a minimum investment of $500,000 over four years
• Loans + Grants (Large Projects or Strategic Impact)
• Loans: Up to 15% of eligible costs to a maximum of $5 million (repayable over 5 years, 0% interest, optional forgiveness of up to 30% based on performance)
• Grants: Up to 15% of eligible costs to a maximum of $1.5 million
• Project must have a minimum investment of $10 million over five years and demonstrate significant regional benefits

Eligibility criteria of the Advanced Manufacturing and Innovation Competitiveness Stream program:

• Eligible Applicants:
  • Ontario-based small- and medium-sized advanced manufacturers
  • Incorporated in Canada and operating for at least 3 years
  • Must have at least 10 full-time employees
  • Project must take place in a targeted region (e.g., Eastern Ontario or Southwestern Ontario)
  • Must be financially viable and able to fund a portion of the project
  • Must provide audited financial statements for the past 3 years
• Eligible Projects:
  • Investment in new equipment, technology, processes, or facility expansion
  • Projects must have a minimum budget of $500,000 (SMEs) or $10 million (large)
  • Must result in productivity improvements, innovation adoption, or workforce development
  • Preference given to projects that support clean technology, energy efficiency, digital integration, or regional cluster development