Government of Canada supports Yukon-based business to boost local manufacturing capacity

January 25, 2017 – Whitehorse, YT

Northerm Windows and Doors, a division of RAB Energy Group, is receiving up to $130,345 in funding from the Government of Canada to support the implementation of automation technologies and LEAN manufacturing process improvement. This will elevate production capacity and consolidate the company's Alaska-based production at their Whitehorse facility. The announcement was made today at YuKonstruct (co)space by the Honourable Bardish Chagger, Leader of the Government in the House of Commons and Minister of Small Business and Tourism, and The Honourable Larry Bagnell, Member of Parliament for Yukon.

"Our government understands the important role that science and technology plays in laying the groundwork for the industries and jobs of the future," said the Honourable Bardish Chagger, Minister of Small Business and Tourism. "This is the type of innovation that we want to drive with the National Research Council of Canada's Industrial Research Assistance Program (NRC-IRAP). Science, technology and innovation are drivers of economic progress and key to enhancing prosperity and competitiveness."

This investment is made through the National Research Council of Canada Industrial Research Assistance Program which supports thousands of small and medium-sized enterprises in Canada every year in developing and commercializing technologies. NRC-IRAP works with industry to bridge technology gaps, helping to build a more innovative Canadian economy that reflects today's global realities.

"NRC-IRAP's support is enabling us to increase our production capacity, create a safer work environment and improve quality," said David Bourd, General Manager of Northerm Windows and Doors. "We can now be more responsive to the demands of our building industry while feeling confident in going out and expanding our market."

Founded in 1985, RAB Energy Group, operating as Northerm Windows and Doors, is the Yukon's preeminent manufacturer and supplier of quality, energy-efficient home closure products such as windows, doors and commercial aluminum glazing systems to markets across Canada's North and Alaska.

Minister Chagger and Member of Parliament Bagnell also announced that the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency (CanNor) is providing YuKonstruct $162,000 in funding to YuKonstruct Makerspace which will be used for a range of initiatives including renovations, purchasing equipment, and exploring opportunities for expansion.

The Makerspace provides Yukoners with access to shared work spaces, quality equipment, expertise and training in a collaborative environment to empower small businesses and entrepreneurs with the tools, skills, and support required to develop their products and services. The (co)space provides Yukoners access to meeting and office space, to incubate and accelerate small business development.

Additional links

• Northerm Windows and Doors
• National Research Council of Canada Industrial Research Assistance Program

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Contacts

Media Relations
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James Fitz-Morris
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Office of the Minister of Small Business and Tourism
343-291-2700
Twitter: @MinofSBT
Instagram: minofsbt

Media Relations
Innovation, Science and
Economic Development Canada
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