Ontario Automotive Modernization Programs (O-AMP)

The Ontario Automotive Modernization Program helps modernize Ontario’s automotive supply chain to make it more competitive and responsive to the changing needs of its customers.

Funding:

• Up to $150,000grant to offset up to 50% of eligible project costs. (aim for $300k+ budget to receive max grant return).

Eligible Applicants for Ontario Automotive Modernization Program:

• Ontario automotive parts manufacturers (at least 50% of total revenues must be generated from the automotive supply sector).
• The direct applicant must be a SME (<500 employees in Ontario and <$1B consolidated global revenues).
• The applicant must be in the automotive supply chain to original equipment manufacturers of passenger and commercial vehicles. Aftermarket parts industry is not eligible.
• Must have a minimum of two years of financial statements.
• At least 50% of the company’s total sales revenue comes from the auto supply sector
• Must have a manufacturing location in Ontario by the time your project starts

Eligible Projects for Ontario Automotive Modernization Program:

• Technology adoption– implementing advanced manufacturing hardware, software and/or training to improve processes and competitiveness, for example, Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems, production tracking systems and advanced hardware implementation.
• Tools/technologies to support new product development– adoption of  technologies to assist with the engineering and design of new products such as Computer-Aided Design & Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAD/CAM) systems, Finite Element Analysis (FEA) software, Design for Manufacturing (DFM) tools, rapid-prototyping tools or other tools to support the New Product Introduction (NPI) process
• LEAN manufacturing– for example, improving operational efficiency and competitiveness by adopting lean manufacturing techniques and hiring the services of a mentor/consultant to help with lean implementation
• Align with O-AMP’s goals of economic gains, business improvements, and operational improvements.
• Be no more than two years in duration.

Eligible Expenses:

• No expenses can be incurred prior to approval
• Hardware/Software: ERP, CAD/CAM, DFM tools, etc. (Including software licencing costs for the duration of the project)
• Implementation costs
• Materials – May be eligible if it directly relates to a software implementation and leverages benefits of that software
• Labour (e.g., Project Management) – Recommend to cap at 10% of the project budget
• LEAN Training and consulting

Ineligible Expenses:

• Infrastructure costs (e.g., building and facilities)
• Capital costs (e.g., vehicles and equipment)
• R&D

Timelines for Ontario Automotive Modernization Program:

• Next intake Opening Soon
• Intake Deadline: Anticipate intake to close by Aug/Sept 2025