Ontario remains Canada’s manufacturing engine, but it is losing ground. Manufacturing GDP has fallen 17 percent in the past two decades and productivity trails our competitor jurisdictions in the United States. Our Technology Imperative report gathered insights from 200 manufacturing leaders and found that Ontario’s manufacturing productivity challenge is, at its core, a technology adoption challenge.
Only 15 percent of manufacturers describe their technology adoption as advanced, even though 86 percent say technology could completely transform their business. Furthermore, only 37 percent have invested in AI, and 32 percent in advanced robotics.
Manufacturers are clear that more support is needed. 83 percent say greater access to government funding and incentives would benefit their organization.
This report outlines practical actions for industry and government to modernize the sector, strengthen competitiveness, and rebuild Ontario’s global manufacturing advantage.
