North Star Windows and Doors is a highly competitive manufacturer of energy-efficient commercial and residential building products. Since 1985, the St. Thomas, Ontario business has provided quality workmanship and attentive service to customers spanning across the world.
The company was recently announced as recipients of up to $1.2 million through the Southwestern Ontario Development Fund (SWODF). This Ontario government funding support will help the business to expand its facility, create new employment opportunities, and increase the company’s ability to export to new global customers.
The company’s expansion within southwestern Ontario is set to be a four year project that will bring over $10 million in new investments to the St. Thomas area. Through their application to the Southwestern Ontario Development Fund, the business will be able to access up to $1.2 million of this investment in Ontario government grants.
North Star Windows and Doors is a Great Fit for the SWODF Program
The business’ expansion project was an ideal fit for the SWODF program which enabled the business to be successful in their government funding application. Specifically, the company will deliver meaningful results because of its investment, including:
Job Creation and Maintenance
North Star will be able to maintain 184 existing jobs while expanding to create 140 new employment opportunities by 2019. Already one of the top employers in the St. Thomas area, this boost in employment will have significant benefits for the local economy.
Facility Expansion/ Investment
The company will be able to expand its current production facility by 25,000 square feet. With this new space, the business will be able to purchase innovative machinery that provides them with a competitive advantage over domestic and international competitors.
Growth in Export Potential
The manufacturer is projecting exports to grow to $5 million by the end of 2019. This is a 67% increase over their current $3 million in annual exports. Although there is a growing global demand for their products, the company could not keep up with the demand without an expansion to their facility.
“Manufacturing is a driving force in Ontario, and we are happy to support North Star Windows and Doors and their plans for expansion and innovative product development.”
– Brad Duguid, Minister of Economic Development, Employment and Infrastructure
About the Southwestern Ontario Development Fund (SWODF)
The Southwestern Ontario Development Fund supports business investment and job creation projects. Businesses may receive up to 15% of eligible project costs to a maximum $1.5 million in government grants and an additional $3.5 million in repayable funding for their project.
This cash flow enhancement will allow a greater number of businesses in southwestern Ontario to complete strategic projects that strengthen competitiveness and allow for global exports.
If your business is curious about its eligibility for funding or would like to incorporate this funding opportunity into a Proactive Funding Plan, please contact Mentor Works to learn more.