The Ontario government is kicking in more than $570,000 to support a local company’s $5.5 million investment in new manufacturing capability.
MPP Andrew Dowie (PC — Windsor-Tecumseh) was at Porter Engineered Systems Monday to announce the grant from the province’s Southwest Ontario Development Fund (SWODF).
The funding is part of more than $5.5 million invested by Porter to improve its manufacturing facility and add new equipment used in the production of seating structures and powertrain components at its Windsor facility.
“Our government is building Ontario and strengthening the economy by supporting key investments in (local) communities,” Dowie said. “Porter Engineered Systems’ investment will grow local manufacturing and create more good-paying jobs for workers and families in the Windsor Essex region.”
Power Engineered Systems said the investment will create 15 new jobs and boost revenues by about $3 million annually. Dowie was joined by MPP Rick Byers (PC — Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound) in making the announcement.
With the funding, Porter Engineered Systems will design and manufacture seating structures, mechanisms and power train components, undertake improvements to its facility and purchase equipment that includes a band saw, heat oven and software. The investment includes $1.8 million in specialized one-time labour and expertise to establish operations.
“This initiative to support local businesses was instrumental to helping us make the investment decision to expand here,” said Steve Pan, the company’s director of operations.
“We’re appreciative of the Ontario government for creating the SWODF and are pleased to be part of the continued growth and success of Ontario manufacturing.”
The regional development fund has provided more than $68 million to 62 companies since 2019.
