Ontario Automotive Modernization Program (O-AMP) 2026 Intake Opens March 4 

If you’ve been waiting for the right moment to modernize a key part of your business operations, this is it. 

The Ontario Automotive Modernization Program (O-AMP) opens for applications March 4, 2026, with a deadline of April 16, 2026.  

The O-AMP program supports eligible Ontario automotive suppliers that want to improve productivity, adopt new technologies, and strengthen operational performance through modernization and lean initiatives. 

For many manufacturers, the best projects are the practical ones: implementing shop-floor visibility tools, upgrading systems like enterprise resource planning (ERP), introducing engineering tools that speed up quoting and design cycles, or bringing in lean expertise to reduce waste and stabilize processes. O-AMP is designed to help fund those exact types of operations improvements, with clear timelines and a defined scope. 

Funding Snapshot: Ontario Automotive Modernization Program (O-AMP) 

O-AMP is intended to help Ontario automotive suppliers modernize operations and improve competitiveness. 

Program Objectives: 

• Support modernization projects that improve operational performance and competitiveness for Ontario automotive suppliers 

Funding Amount: 

• Covers up to 50% of eligible project costs to a maximum of $150,000 

Eligible Applicants: 

• Ontario-based automotive supply chain businesses with fewer than 500 employees in Ontario and under $1 billion in global revenue 
• Businesses with at least 30% of total sales revenue from the automotive sector 
• Applicants should be prepared to provide recent financial statements as part of the application process 

Eligible Projects: 

• Technology adoption that improves efficiency and competitiveness (examples often include ERP and production tracking tools) 
• New product development and engineering tools (examples include CAD/CAM, FEA, DFM, and rapid prototyping) 
• Lean manufacturing initiatives supported by a mentor or consultant 

Timeline: 

• Applications open: March 4, 2026 
• Deadline: April 16, 2026 

Modernization Projects with O-AMP Funding 

O-AMP typically aligns well with projects that have a clear operational need, a defined solution, and measurable outcomes. The simplest way to pressure-test fit is to ask: Will this project clearly improve productivity, throughput, quality, delivery performance, or cost control? If the answer is yes, you’re likely in the right zone. 

Technology Adoption for Efficiency 

Many applicants use modernization funding to digitize or strengthen production management. Common examples include: 

• ERP implementation or expansion 
• Production tracking / real-time visibility tools 
• Quality management systems and traceability improvements 

A strong project story links the technology to specific operational outcomes, such as fewer changeover losses, reduced downtime, improved inventory accuracy, faster scheduling decisions, or improved on-time delivery. 

Modernization projects usually combine technology, implementation, training, and internal effort. To keep your plan clear (and application-friendly), it helps to build your budget around the “who/what/why” of each cost. 

Many O-AMP applications benefit from having supporting documentation like vendor quotes ready early. At least one intake notice explicitly flags that quotes are required. Even when a program doesn’t call it out prominently, quotes are a common requirement for validating project budgets. 

Other Funding Options to Consider 

If O-AMP is part of a bigger modernization roadmap, you may also want to look at: 

• SR&ED (federal tax incentive): This is typically available year-round for eligible experimental development work (technical uncertainty and systematic investigation). 
• Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network (OVIN) programs: OVIN offers multiple streams with varying intake windows, so confirm the specific program timing for your project. 
• Next Generation Manufacturing Canada (NGen) funding opportunities: Availability depends on the specific call; check active “apply” windows tied to each program. 

Government Funding Application Support with Ryan Canada 

O-AMP has a short intake window, and strong applications come together faster when your scope, quotes, and outcomes are organized early.  

If you’re considering a modernization project and want to move quickly once the portal opens, our Canadian Government Funding team can help your business confirm program fit, shape a clear project narrative, and prepare the documents you’ll need to submit on time. Get in touch to start your O-AMP application planning.