The Canadian manufacturing industry has reasons to be cautious, yet optimistic in the short-term future. In February 2016, the industry’s contribution to Canada’s gross domestic product (GDP) rose by 1.5%, yet as a whole, industry sales dropped by 1.6%. As the Canadian business landscape changes, manufacturing executives must understand how to respond to new opportunities…
There are a vast selection of government grants, loans, and tax incentives that manufacturers can use to reduce project expenses. Whether Ontario manufacturers invest in hiring and training projects, research and development, business/market expansion, or are improving their productivity through technology adoption, Ontario government grants are available to reduce the cost (and risk) of project…
Ontario’s digital media production industry provides the province with substantial economic benefits. Digital media contributes over $1.5 billion to the Ontario economy on an annual basis and provides full-time employment to more than 16,000 Ontarians. To enhance the competitiveness of Ontario corporations producing digital media, the Ontario Media Development Corporation (OMDC) created and administers the…
According to a recent report from PwC, nearly 50% of all small businesses do not leverage any government funding sources. At the same time, their research shows that access to funding is a key barrier to business growth. For many SMEs obtaining funding is out of reach for a variety of reasons – companies may…
In Ontario many youth face pressure when deciding which industry or specific role they would like to begin their careers in. For high school students within Ontario, this decision can be extraordinarily difficult because their previous work experience does little to prepare them for what lies ahead after high school or after post-secondary education. As…
The Globe and Mail recently reported on a shifting trend in Canadian government funding: changing rules to the popular Scientific Research and Experimental Development (SR&ED) tax incentive program have resulted in declining claims. According to the Globe and Mail, SR&ED payouts have reduced by over $1 billion since 2008. At the same time we’re seeing…
The Ontario Media Development Corporation (OMDC) is committed to supporting physical and digital media activity across the province through events, resources, and business funding programs, including the Interactive Digital Media Fund and OMDC Export Fund. The corporation is now planning a specialized meeting in Toronto to provide a forum for Canadian film and television, and…
Co-operative education options at Canadian colleges and universities are on the rise; this is good news for both students and employers. Many Canadian post-secondary institutions have a wide range of co-op programs that support a variety of industries. In fact, the University of Waterloo offers the world’s largest co-op program, growing over 58% in the…
Innovation has been identified by the Canadian government as an area of investment to fuel economic growth and prosperity. Thus, several research and development grants, loans, and tax credit are offered through the government to help promote innovation from Canadian-based corporations. It is important that Canadian SMEs understand the best application of various R&D funding…
Mentor Works connects with many businesses that have questions about hiring an apprentice. We appreciate that the process of hiring an apprentice can appear to be complicated. For this reason we have endeavoured to provide you with the information you need to know and a clear process to follow. Ontario Apprenticeship Programs Overview The Province…