The Ontario government is investing $7.5 million to protect small and medium-sized businesses across the province, helping them modernize and grow by adopting digital technologies.
Delivered by the Ontario Centre of Innovation (OCI), the province is investing $5 million to support the Digital Modernization and Adoption Plan (DMAP), which helps businesses assess their digital needs and work with a consultant to create a customized plan, with participating companies reporting $380 million in increased revenue.
“As local entrepreneurs navigate the pace of change in the digital economy, Ontario’s DCC has placed small businesses on the map, as engines of economic growth, job creators, and agents of revitalizing local communities. Ontario’s renewed investment in the DCC and its expansion into retail will empower even more small businesses to harness the power of innovation and next-generation technologies that will fuel their success and build resilience for years to come,” said Raed Kadri, VP of Strategic Initiatives, Business Development and Head of OVIN, OCI
The Digitalization Competence Centre (DCC) helps companies to transition and find made-in-Ontario digital solutions with expert guidance, training and up to $115,000 in targeted grants.
“Small businesses are the backbone of Ontario’s economy, and our government is helping more businesses embrace new technologies that will improve their operations, ensuring they stay competitive in today’s digital economy,” said Nina Tangri, Associate Minister of Small Business. “Under the leadership of Premier Ford, we will continue to support small businesses in priority sectors like retail, so they can create jobs and grow the economy for everyone.”
Through DMAP, companies can receive a grant of up to $15,000 to match private investment that supports planning for technology investments. Companies that have completed a DMAP project are eligible for additional funding through the Technology Demonstration Program, which includes a grant of up to $100,000 to match private investment in purchasing and installing new technologies that support business growth and create jobs.
In addition, $2.5 million is being invested to support small businesses in the retail sector in areas like online payment systems, inventory management software, customer relationship management tools, digital marketing, cybersecurity solutions and artificial intelligence. The new Retail Modernization Project Grant will provide a flexible grant of up to $5,000 to be matched by participants adopting new technologies in these areas.
“The Retail Modernization Project Grant will enable us to invest in new customer relationship management software to improve our in-store experience. This support is crucial for small businesses like ours, helping us grow and create jobs while building our local community,” said Ashley Lepre, Owner of Brantford Finders Keepers.
Ontario’s investments in the DCC are part of the government’s plan to protect Ontario and help businesses navigate an uncertain economy by building the most competitive and resilient economy in the G7.
“Our government is proud to help small and medium-sized businesses, like Brantford Finders Keepers, digitize their operations and develop strategies for growth. Ensuring our job creators have the tools and resources they need by strengthening and modernizing will spur competitiveness, strengthen our economy, and protect Ontario,” added Will Bouma, MPP for Brantford—Brant.
