Manufacturing Sector
Like other cities in advanced industrialized countries, St. Catharines is witnessing a broad and continuing shift from traditional manufacturing to professional, scientific and technical jobs, although the city is still a preferred location for manufacturing in the Niagara Region.
Opportunities in Advanced Manufacturing
The deep tradition of manufacturing in St. Catharines provides a workforce that is attractive to firms seeking specialized and innovative products and solutions. Retaining and expanding the presence of existing firms is paramount. There is a need to evaluate the changing market environment and how partnerships and associations will need to be leveraged as the 4th Industrial Revolution ensues.
Shift Towards Specialization, Sophistication
130 Million People within 500 Miles
Ideal Location & Market Place
Objective
Support retention & growth of the St. Catharines manufacturing sector
Action 1
Retain & Grow
Support retention and growth of local manufacturing companies via the Economic Development corporate calling program.
Action 2
Target Opportunities
Target opportunities to grow and attract manufacturing, research-based and service firms.
Action 3
Continue Participation
Continued participation as an ex-officio board and committee member of the Niagara Industrial Association (NIA) to ensure knowledge of existing issues and trends.
Action 4
Assist with Growth
Highlight alternative funding mechanisms to assist with growth (Inclusive of provincial, federal, and venture capital funding).
Action 5
Identify Industries of Growth
Identify future industries of growth (eg. electrification, autonomous vehicle production, solar). Educate and network our existing base of businesses to decision makers within government.
Action 6
Lobby for Policies
Lobbying for complementary and fair policies for business, directly and through associations such as the Ontario Auto Mayors’ Caucus.
Action 7
Promote & Facilitate Supply Chain
Promote and facilitate supply chain opportunities associated with manufacturing, eg. the GE Brilliant Factory (Welland) and Solar City (Buffalo).
Action 8
Leverage Partnerships
Leverage partnerships with secondary and post-secondary institutions to retain and build a highly skilled workforce.
Performance Metrics
Demonstrate Engagement & Support for Local Businesses
Businesses retained
Expansion projects
New investments
Investment-related events
Contacts and leads generated
Connections and introductions designed to encourage networking among local businesses
- AUTOMOTIVE / MOBILITY TECHNOLOGY
- 1,800+ direct and jobs
- General Motors Canada recently completed a $28-million cogeneration investment at the GM St. Catharines Propulsion plant enhancing the operation’s competitiveness by lowering greenhouse gas emissions and reducing future energy costs
- The term “mobility” recognizes major technology shifts: fuel alternatives, ride-sharing models, autonomous vehicles
- GREENHOUSE SYSTEMS AUTOMATIZATION
- Rise of sophisticated automated systems for lighting, irrigation, nutrients
- Leverage Niagara’s dominant role in Canada’s greenhouse industry
- Province of Ontario continues to show its confidence in the sector through recent investments, including $480.000 from the Southwestern Development Fund for facility improvements and new equipment
- SUPPLY CHAIN OPPORTUNITIES
- Leverage St. Catharines’ transportation and location assets (eg. Lakefront, HWY H2O, 400 series highways)
- St. Catharines supports the Ontario government to lead a marine strategy
- Federal / Provincial marine strategy is in development
- Ontario Government launched its Ontario Shipyard Modernization Project by announcing an $8.7 million investment at Heddle Shipyards for new technology and training for workers at shipyards in St. Catharines, Hamilton and Thunder Bay.
Discover Why St. Catharines Is Your Business Advantage
Contact our team of experts for a consultation today.