CME Technology Investment Program – Southern Ontario Grant for Equipment

Amount: 50% of the project cost up to $50,000.

The goal of the CME Technology Investment Program is to help small-to-medium-sized manufacturers in Southern Ontario automate production, reduce their environmental footprint and increase their competitiveness in the global market. Eligible projects include industrial automation, robotics, artificial intelligence and other machine learning applications, advanced equipment and networks and the Internet of Things (Industry 4.0).

Eligibility requirements for the CME Technology Investment Program

  • Must be a manufacturer based in Southern Ontario per the census map (Refer to Southern Ontario Service Area)
  • Must be an incorporated business (federally or provincially) for 2 years or more continuously
  • Must demonstrate financial stability
  • Must have greater than 15 and fewer than 500 full-time employees (FTE) in Southern Ontario

Eligible expenses for the CME Technology Investment Program

  • Capital Equipment
  • Installation of capital equipment related to the project
  • Training on new equipment related to the project
  • Project Management/Consulting fees (excluding travel)
  • Direct labour devoted to the completion and management of the project
  • Direct materials related to the project

Note: ERP and general training projects are NOT eligible.

Amount of the Government Grant

50% of total eligible project costs, up to $50,000.

Eligibility Timeline for the CME Technology Investment Program

Eligible project expenses incurred after April 1, 2022 (retroactive projects) may be eligible for funding. Approved projects must be completed by December 31, 2023.

Government Grant Application Review Timeline

45 business days

Reimbursement Schedule

  • 20% of the approved amount of funding within 30 business days from the date of the signed contribution agreement.
  • 80% of the approved amount of funding within 30-60 business days of the approval date of the Final Report and Expense Claim.
  • The approved amount of funding may be adjusted depending on the outcome of the project.

Program’s Budget

The total budget of the program is $8,800,000 which should be enough for 175-225 applicants.

Selection Criteria for the CME Technology Investment Program

  • Technology investments to improve and modernize the manufacturing process, leading to increased productivity and competitiveness
  • New additions that reduce the environmental footprint
  • Commitment to develop export markets, or be part of the value supply chain, or potential to become a strong global player on a regional or global basis
  • Creation of long-term employment and high-value jobs

How to Start My Application for the Equipment Grant Program?

Start by verifying your eligibility through our eligibility check form.

Southern Ontario Map

List of eligible counties.CME Technology Investment Program Service Area