The Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario (FedNor) recently committed close to $1.5M in federal investments to promote greater innovation and competitiveness within northern Ontario. On October 28, 2016, FedNor announced that it would provide up to $1,488,972 in Ontario government funding to support the Sault Ste. Marie Innovation Centre. The Innovation Centre provides…
Greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs) are the leading cause of climate change, however many people have misguided perceptions about where these pollutants come from. Considerable blame is placed on businesses, (industrial companies particularly) but there are other sources of pollution that must be addressed too. Cities contribute more than 66% of global carbon emissions – this…
Among all of the crops produced by Canadian farmers, apples and greenhouse tomatoes generate some of the highest revenues. In 2015 alone, Canadian agriculture farmers earned over $230 million from apple sales and nearly $830 million from greenhouse tomatoes, each boasting strong domestic and international sales. However, pests and bacteria can pose a threat to…
Eagle Graphite Inc. is a producer and processor of high-carbon flake graphite. The company’s graphite mine, located in British Columbia, provides high-quality flake graphite, which is commonly used to create advanced composite materials. Graphite has uses such as aerospace and automotive parts, sports equipment, and alternative-energy fuel cells. The ability to manipulate this material in…
In order for Canada to become internationally competitive in the automotive industry, our nation must become leaders in product and process improvements. Leveraging knowledge-based resources such as skilled labourers, researchers, and state-of-the art equipment will help Canadian firms to develop a sustainable competitive advantage. Thankfully, the Government of Canada supports automotive industry competitiveness by offering…
The Western Innovation Initiative (WINN) is a research and development funding program for small businesses located in western Canada. Companies operating in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba may apply for up to 50% of their project’s expenses to a maximum $3.5 million in repayable funding contributions. Innovative businesses use this fund to lead their…
Jet planes were always something that amazed me growing up. Taking a giant metal ship and make it soar through the sky at 1,000 km/h by burning dinosaur remains was undeniably cool. I was far from alone in this method of thinking; in Ontario aerospace is a big deal. The Ontario aerospace sector, despite what…
Can industry-led research and development help Canada transition to a knowledge-based economy? The Government of Canada thinks so, and has been calling on businesses across the country to become more innovative by all means possible. Since the Liberal government took power in Canada, there has been a stark contrast in the way economic development has…
Sodecia Canada, a globally leading automotive manufacturer, is in the process of expanding their operations in London Ontario. As part of the organization’s growth strategy, Sodecia is investing in a new production facility that will greatly expand their capabilities and ability to support the global automotive market. Sodecia Canada recently partnered with Mentor Works to…
The Government of Canada’s vision for a low-carbon economy has created numerous opportunities for businesses across the country. New incentives, such as the Energy Innovation Program (EIP), provide small business grants for clean technology research and development. This critical source of research and development funding helps companies bring their innovations to market faster, and strengthens…