Ontario is investing the future of the province’s manufacturing sector by bringing together students and businesses to provide hands-on applied learning and innovative business solutions.
The province is investing $4.2 million to help build a permanent, high-tech manufacturing facility at Niagara College.
The Niagara College Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre will provide Ontario-based manufacturers with access to state-of-the-art equipment and research facilities, as well as the expertise and business services of faculty and students. These services will help reduce production costs and minimize production time, and bring the talent and skills of Niagara College’s students together with local industry.
Supporting business innovation and postsecondary education is a key part of the government’s economic plan for Ontario. The four-part plan is building Ontario up by investing in people’s talents and skills, building new public infrastructure like roads and transit, creating a dynamic, supportive environment where business thrives and building a secure savings plan so everyone can afford to retire.
“Ontario’s funding for a permanent home for our Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre will provide local manufacturers with increased access to leading-edge facilities, equipment, technical expertise, training and services. The centre’s community will boost the regional economy by developing commercialization solutions, innovating products and processes, and expanding into new markets.”
–Dr. Dan Patterson, President, Niagara College
QUICK FACTS
- Ontario committed to support a permanent facility for the centre in its 2014 Budget.
- Advanced manufacturing innovation programs began in May 2013, led by Niagara College Research and Innovation.
- Niagara Research and Innovation provides real-world solutions for business, industry and the community through applied research and knowledge transfer activities, including projects with Niagara-based Kwik Mix and St. Catharines-based W.S. Tyler.
- More than 850 small and medium-sized enterprises operate in the Niagara region.