Targeted Manufacturing Initiative for Northern Ontario — Operational Assessments ### 📋 Eligible Entities - Manufacturing businesses located in Northern Ontario - Small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the manufacturing sector - Businesses demonstrating commitment to operational improvement and competitiveness - Operations must be based within designated Northern Ontario regions - Sole proprietorships, partnerships, and incorporated companies qualify - Must be an active, operational business (not start-ups or pre-revenue ventures) ### 💰 Funding Details - Maximum grant per assessment: $15,000 - Cost coverage: Up to 50% of eligible assessment costs - Matching requirement: Business must cover minimum 50% of costs (cost-sharing arrangement) - Repayability: Non-repayable grant (not a loan) - Multiple assessments: Eligibility for multiple assessments may be available (confirm with program administrator) - Currency: Canadian dollars ### 🛠️ Approved Expenses - Operational assessments conducted by qualified external consultants or assessment providers - Process analysis and evaluation of manufacturing operations - Competitiveness planning and strategic prioritization services - Implementation planning for operational improvements - Consultant fees for qualified assessors - Assessment documentation and reporting - Expenses directly tied to identifying and planning changes for improved competitiveness ### ⚠️ Conditions & Milestones - Assessment requirement: Funding is contingent on completing a formal operational assessment - 50% matching funds: Applicant must secure and commit matching funds before grant disbursement - Qualified provider: Assessment must be conducted by an approved or qualified consultant/provider - Northern Ontario location: Business operations must be physically located in eligible Northern Ontario area - Manufacturing focus: Primary business activity must be manufacturing - Implementation commitment: Business must demonstrate intent to implement recommended changes - Reporting and documentation: Completion of assessment reports and progress tracking may be required - Fund usage timeline: Funds must be deployed within specified timeframe (confirm exact deadline with program) - No retroactive funding: Assessments must be initiated after grant approval