Part of Ontario’s Regional Development Program, the Advanced Manufacturing and Innovation Competitiveness (AMIC) Stream has announced its 2025 funding intake. This program supports Ontario-based small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in advanced manufacturing sectors as they adopt new capital equipment, technologies, and skills development initiatives. The goal is to boost competitiveness, create jobs, build talent, and encourage innovation, collaboration, and cluster development across the province.
“Since Day 1, our government has endeavored to make Ontario a more attractive investment destination, but we know there is more work to do. With increased international competition for investment, our government wants to help Ontario’s advanced manufacturers continue to thrive and be global leaders in innovation. This program will create the right conditions for our businesses and job creators to invest, grow and attract investment across Ontario.”
– Vic Fedeli, Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade
Eligible applicants can receive up to 15% of eligible project costs, with a maximum of $5 million for interest-free loans and $1.5 million for grants.
Funding Snapshot: Advanced Manufacturing and Innovation Competitiveness Stream (AMIC)
AMIC is emphasizing attracting growth and investment for companies that are eager to spend on purchasing capital equipment, adopt new technologies, and accelerate employee skills and talent.
Grants:
- Covering up to 15% of eligible costs in specific scenarios:
- Maximum of $500,000 for small companies in rural communities.
- Maximum of $1.5 million for strategic projects involving foreign direct investment, reshoring, or competition with other jurisdictions.
Loans:
- Up to 15% of eligible costs, to a maximum of $5 million.
- Loans are interest-free during the project period (up to four years).
- Loan Forgiveness: Up to 30% of the loan (maximum $500,000) may be forgiven if investment and job creation targets are met.
Example: A business invests $10 million in a project over four years, creating five new full-time positions. Approved for a $1.5 million loan, the company achieves its investment and job targets. Consequently, $450,000 (30% of the loan) is converted into non-repayable funding.
Important Note: AMIC funding cannot be stacked with other provincial funding programs.
Applicant Eligibility
To qualify for AMIC funding, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Operate in advanced manufacturing sectors such as aerospace, automotive, chemical, ICT, life sciences, and steel;
- Have 3+ years of operational experience with financial statements;
- Employ at least 10 people;
- Commit to creating at least five new jobs or upskilling current employees;
- Plan an investment of at least $500,000 in their project; and
- Be in, or plan to locate in, a community in Ontario.
Eligible Projects
Projects must involve investments in capital equipment, technology adoption, and/or skills development. The outcomes of the projects should:
- Create jobs and enhance the local talent pool.
- Attract private sector investment and support business growth.
- Adopt new technologies to improve competitiveness.
- Foster broad economic impacts, including innovation, collaboration, and cluster development.
Timeline
- New Intake Opening: January 16, 2025
- Deadline: April 24, 2025
- Funding Notifications: July 22, 2025
Explore Other Government Funding Opportunities
In addition to the AMIC Stream, Ontario manufacturers can explore other funding programs tailored to support innovation and growth in advanced manufacturing. Programs like the Scientific Research and Experimental Development (SR&ED) Program offer tax credits for eligible activities and the CanExport Program helps businesses expand into international markets.
For a wider range of funding options available, explore our general government funding directory. Stay updated on manufacturing-specific opportunities by visiting our news blogs, and get in touch with a Ryan representative for personalized funding guidance.