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 the City 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
- 2,175 direct jobs
- 2016 labour agreement followed by GM investments in St. Catharines Powertrain
- 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
- SUPPLY CHAIN OPPORTUNITIES
- Leverage St. Catharines’ transportation and location assets (eg. Lakefront, HWY H2O, 400 series highways)
- New opportunities with GE’s Brilliant Factory in Welland and Solar City in Buffalo
Discover Why St. Catharines Is Your Business Advantage
Contact our team of experts for a consultation today.