Three Chatham-Kent companies, including one from Wallaceburg, were part of a technology innovation announcement made recently at the Canadian International AutoShow in Toronto on February 16, 2017.
The Ontario Centres of Excellence (OCE), and the Automotive Parts Manufacturer’s Association (APMA) announced 20 new technology innovation projects that will advance Ontario’s global competitiveness in the automotive sector.
AarKel Tool & Die, Onbelay Automotive Powder and E-Coating, and NH Global Design: Custom Assembly Machinery were announced with projects funded through the OCE’s Automotive Supplier Competitiveness Improvement Program (ASCIP).
Chatham-Kent Economic Development officials say the companies are active in the automotive supply chain and are improving their access to leading-edge information technology that will boost innovation and increase productivity.
ASCIP is a partnership between the APMA, OCE and the Province of Ontario’s Ministry of Economic Development and Growth (MEDG). The program seeks to increase the sourcing capabilities of Ontario-based small- and medium-sized automotive suppliers, while encouraging innovation and productivity initiatives that increase success in growing export markets. Projects are eligible for up to $100,000 in project funding, which must be matched by industry and contribute to the adoption of industry-leading IT. Projects can be up to two years in duration.
“The auto industry in Chatham-Kent has long been known for its progressive material fabrication, advanced robotics and PLC expertise creating solutions with intricate precision and quality,” says Geoffrey Wright, Business Development Specialist at the Municipality of Chatham-Kent.
“Over the last several years Chatham-Kent companies have accessed government funding on an increasing rate.”
Wright said he attributes the success to company officials spending more time developing their strategic approach to attaining funds.
Stream 1 of the ASCIP program focuses on technology adoption and provides grants to auto parts suppliers with projects to advance product life cycle management and improve competitiveness through adoption of advanced hardware, software and/or training.
– Photo credit: AarKel
