$1.2 million to expand McMaster's The Forge, double the number of start-ups supported and create 75 jobs

December 14, 2018 — Hamilton, Ontario

Fostering creativity, innovation and entrepreneurship is helping to transform and grow our economy. That is why the Government of Canada, through FedDev Ontario, is providing McMaster University with up to $1.2 million to expand its makerspace, a collaborative area where entrepreneurs can access advanced equipment to design and build innovative new products.

The Honourable Filomena Tassi, Minister of Seniors and Member of Parliament for Hamilton West–Ancaster–Dundas, made the announcement today on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for FedDev Ontario.

This funding will allow The Forge, McMaster University's start-up incubator, to expand its makerspace as it moves into 10,000-square-feet shared with partner Innovation Factory. It will also purchase additional 3D printers and other fabricating equipment, and increase support to entrepreneurs through mentoring. As a result, the number of companies supported will almost double from 24 to up to 40 annually, and up to 75 new jobs will be created.

The Forge's expansion enhances McMaster's entrepreneurial ecosystem and reputation as a leader in developing innovative manufacturing assets, in particular within the McMaster Innovation Park, which is also home to the McMaster Automotive Resource Centre (MARC) and the Centre for Biomedical Engineering and Advanced Manufacturing (BEAM).

The Government of Canada recognizes FedDev Ontario's contribution to ensuring businesses, organizations and communities across southern Ontario are able to seize new opportunities created by an innovation economy. Early last week, FedDev Ontario launched new funding streams now open for applications. New projects can now be submitted, using a single application form, through three simplified funding streams