Ontario's Advanced Manufacturing Investment Strategy

In today’s global economy, innovation is crucial for success.

To help manufacturers become more innovative and competitive, the Ontario government created the Advanced Manufacturing Investment Strategy (AMIS). It’s a $500 million program to encourage companies to invest in leading-edge technologies and processes.

Who is eligible to apply for AMIS?

AMIS is open to all manufacturing sectors. Companies that are planning to invest in advanced manufacturing projects in Ontario are eligible to apply.

AMIS focuses on:

• industrial R&D

• design, prototyping and engineering

• new or advanced materials and products

• advanced manufacturing processes

• technology innovation

• robotics/software development

• waste reduction or energy conservation

• centres of excellence

How much funding is available?

AMIS will provide up to 30% of the total eligible costs of a project—up to a maximum of $10 million—in the form of a repayable loan.

Loans are interest free and principal free for five years provided the firm meets agreed-upon job and investment targets. After that, the rate is the province’s cost of borrowing plus 1%.

Loans must be secured and the principal repaid but the terms are negotiable.

What are the eligibility requirements?

Projects must either create/retain 50 jobs or invest $10 million over 5 years.

Eligible costs include¹:

• research and development

• equipment and machinery

• materials

• construction/leasehold improvements

• labour (one time only)

• training

• overhead

How does a company apply for AMIS?

To download an application package, visit www.ontariocanada.com and click on Programs and Services, Advanced Manufacturing Investment Strategy.

Look at who's investing in their future

• Diamond Aircraft Industries, London -
  Development of a single-engine, five-seat jet aircraft. A loan of $10 million supports a total investment of $106.4 million.

• Procter & Gamble Inc., Brockville –
  Development of a new generation of quick-cleaning homecare products. A loan of $3 million supports a total investment of $30 million.

• FAG Aerospace Inc., Stratford -
  Capacity expansion project to enhance the manufacture of precision bearings for the aerospace industry. A loan of $1.78 million supports a total investment of $17.8 million.

• Flakeboard Company, Sault Ste. Marie -
  Development of new manufacturing processes and commercial applications for wood-alternative materials used in kitchen cabinets and furniture. A loan of $1.6 million supports a total investment of $16 million.

• Heroux Devtek Inc., Kitchener –
  Development of a centre of excellence for large and complex landing gear components. A loan of $2.85 million supports a total investment of $28.5 million.

• Roxul Inc., Milton –
  Plant expansion and development of new insulation products that include the use of recycled materials. A loan of $10 million supports a total investment of $103.7 million.

• Bioniche Life Sciences, Belleville –
  Production of an E. coli O157 cattle vaccine - a world's first - bringing innovation-driven, high technology expertise to Ontario. A loan of $10 million supports a total investment of $107 million.

Where can a company get more information on the program?

More information is available on the Ministry of International Trade and Investment website at: www.ontariocanada.com (Click on Programs and Services, Advanced Manufacturing Investment Strategy).

If you're unsure whether your project will meet the program's objectives and criteria, contact us at 416-325-6867 or email us at amis@ontario.ca.

Ministry staff is available for a pre-assessment meeting prior to the submission of your application and can provide valuable feedback on your proposal.