FedDev Ontario Invests in Manufacturing Innovation in the Golden Horseshoe

"The Government of Canada is committed to supporting innovation and competitiveness on a global scale. This means connecting our manufacturers to the tools they need to succeed and compete. This project exemplifies the type of collaboration between business, academia, research institutions and government that we need to foster innovation."

– The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister Responsible for FedDev Ontario

"Today's announcement is a great example of how our region is coming together to create unique partnerships and keep jobs local. I'm proud of the benefits that this network will have for helping our businesses access the tools and talent they need to succeed now, as well as training the workforce of the future."

– Vance Badawey, Member of Parliament for Niagara Centre

"We at Niagara College are proud to be the leaders of this unprecedented network, which will be a key resource and fill a demonstrated need for small- and medium-sized businesses in the Golden Horseshoe. According to recent research in southern Ontario, there are more than 6,500 manufacturers; nearly 4,000 of them have fewer than 10 employees."

– Dr. Dan Patterson, President, Niagara College

"Fostering collaboration and strengthening partnerships are a strategic priority for Mohawk. We're proud to join the Southern Ontario Network for Advanced Manufacturing and Innovation and we look forward to putting our technology students to work in helping industry partners bring innovative solutions to market."

– Ron McKerlie, President, Mohawk College

"Through our Centre for Advanced Manufacturing and Design Technologies, Sheridan brings a breadth of expertise to SONAMI in the areas of additive manufacturing, sustainable energy systems, robotics and automation. By combining our strengths with our partner educational institutions, SONAMI will deliver compelling value to industry while advancing economic growth in the Golden Horseshoe."

– Dr. Mary Preece, President and Vice Chancellor, Sheridan College

"This unique partnership provides an opportunity for McMaster to lend its expertise in helping small, regional companies develop innovative manufacturing processes. We look forward to working with Niagara College, Mohawk and Sheridan to prepare Canadian companies to take their products to market and help them compete on a global stage."

– Stephen Veldhuis, Professor, Department of Mechanical Engineering, and Director, McMaster Manufacturing Research Institute