Advanced Manufacturing and Innovation Competitiveness (AMIC) New Intake Now Open 

Ontario’s advanced manufacturers continue to face global competition, evolving technologies, and rising production costs. To help businesses invest in innovation and strengthen competitiveness, the Ontario government has reopened the Advanced Manufacturing and Innovation Competitiveness (AMIC) program.  

The next intake opens November 4, 2025, and closes February 3, 2026. This funding window supports small and medium-sized manufacturers planning large-scale investments in technology adoption, capital equipment, and workforce development. 

 

Why AMIC Funding Matters Now 

Manufacturing remains a cornerstone of Ontario’s economy, representing nearly 12% of provincial GDP and employing close to 800,000 people. However, success in this sector depends on staying ahead through automation, clean technologies, and digital transformation. 

AMIC helps companies take that next step. The program is designed to boost productivity, attract new investment, and secure Ontario’s reputation as a leader in advanced manufacturing. For many businesses, AMIC funding can be the difference between delaying innovation and making it happen. 

Funding Snapshot: Advanced Manufacturing and Innovation Competitiveness (AMIC) 

The Advanced Manufacturing and Innovation Competitiveness (AMIC) program helps Ontario manufacturers invest in capital equipment, adopt innovative technologies, and build a highly skilled workforce. The program is part of Ontario’s Regional Development Program (RDP), which supports advanced manufacturers that drive productivity, innovation, and job creation across Ontario. AMIC has a few types of support available to your business. 

Grants: 

Available grants cover up to 15% of eligible project costs in specific scenarios: 

• Maximum of $500,000 for small companies located in rural communities 
• Maximum of $1.5 million for strategic projects involving foreign direct investment, reshoring, or competition with other jurisdictions 

Loans: 

• Loans cover up to 15% of eligible costs, up to a maximum of $5 million. 
• Loans are interest-free during the project period (up to four years). 

Loan Forgiveness:  

• Up to 30% of the loan amount (maximum $500,000) may be forgiven if the company achieves its investment and job creation targets. 

Example:  

A business invests $10 million in new automation systems over four years, creating five full-time positions. Approved for a $1.5 million loan, the company meets its investment and employment targets. As a result, $450,000 (30%) of the loan is converted into nonrepayable funding. 

Note: AMIC funding cannot be stacked with other Ontario provincial funding programs. 

Applicant Eligibility 

To qualify for AMIC funding, applicants must: 

• Operate in advanced manufacturing sectors, such as automotive, aerospace, chemicals, information and communications technology (ICT), life sciences, or steel. 
• Have at least three years of operational experience and provide financial statements. 
• Employ at least 10 full-time staff. 
• Commit to creating at least five new jobs or upskilling existing employees. 
• Plan to invest at least $500,000 in an eligible project. 
• Be in, or planning to locate in, a community within Ontario. 

Eligible Projects 

Projects must focus on investments that strengthen Ontario’s manufacturing ecosystem, including: 

• Capital equipment purchases to improve production capacity or efficiency 
• Technology adoption initiatives, such as automation, robotics, or digital systems 
• Skills development and training for employees to support new technologies or processes 

Project outcomes should: 

• Create sustainable, high-quality jobs and develop Ontario’s talent base. 
• Attract private investment and expand business capacity. 
• Enhance productivity through technology and innovation. 
• Contribute to regional economic development and industrial collaboration. 

Timeline 

• New Intake Opening: November 4, 2025 
• Application Deadline: February 3, 2026 
• Funding Notifications: Spring 2026 

Manufacturing is critical to Ontario’s prosperity; it provides high-quality, well-paying jobs and is an important contributor to strong economic growth in the province. The Advanced Manufacturing and Innovation Competitiveness Stream under the Regional Development Program will contribute to long-term growth, productivity, and competitiveness of Ontario’s manufacturing sector, which is undergoing significant change.” 
– Rocco Rossi, President and CEO of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce 

How to Strengthen Your AMIC Application 

Competition for AMIC funding is significant. Applicants that prepare early and align their project goals with provincial priorities stand the best chance of success. Here are a few ways to strengthen your submission: 

1. Demonstrate Clear Economic Impact 

Quantify how your project will create jobs, enhance supply-chain stability, or attract foreign investment. Strong applications clearly show measurable benefits to Ontario’s economy. 

2. Emphasize Innovation and Productivity 

Highlight how the project advances manufacturing efficiency, whether through automation, digitization, or process improvement. The program rewards investments that make Ontario manufacturers more globally competitive. 

3. Ensure Project Readiness 

Applications should include detailed budgets, vendor quotes, and a defined implementation timeline. Funding decisions favour projects ready to begin shortly after approval. 

4. Showcase Workforce Development 

Programs that include upskilling or training components, especially those focused on advanced technologies, align strongly with AMIC’s objectives. 

5. Leverage Expert Support 

The AMIC application process requires detailed documentation, including financial statements, technical project descriptions, and economic-impact projections. Working with funding experts can help ensure nothing is missed. 

How Ryan Canada Can Help 

Ryan’s Government Funding team has extensive experience supporting manufacturers through every stage of the AMIC process, from eligibility assessment to application preparation and reporting. Our specialists understand how to position your project for success and maximize available funding opportunities. 

If your business plans to invest in new equipment, technology, or workforce training in 2026, now is the time to begin preparing your AMIC application. 

Our Ryan team can also help identify additional programs that complement AMIC, including federal options such as the Strategic Innovation Fund (SIF) and training initiatives like the Canada Job Grant (CJG). 

For an overview of other top funding opportunities in Ontario, visit Top Ontario Grants, Loans, and Tax Credits in 2025. 

Apply for AMIC Funding 

The next AMIC intake opens November 4, 2025, and closes February 3, 2026. Applications are reviewed competitively, and early preparation is key. 

If you’d like help determining eligibility or preparing your submission, contact our Ryan Government Funding team for a complimentary consultation. Our experts can manage the process end-to-end, allowing you to focus on your business while we focus on securing funding.