Through the Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network, the new initiative will support Ontario companies as they venture into the global market
(Toronto, ON—January 11, 2023) Through the Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network (OVIN), Ontario launched Going Global today, a pioneering new initiative that will support Ontario small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) as they expand their global footprint and enter into new markets. This initiative will provide Ontario companies with unparalleled opportunities to broaden their consumer reach, showcase their innovative offerings in international markets, and foster new and strategic partnerships within the international innovation ecosystem.
“As one of the largest IT clusters in North America, innovation thrives in Ontario,” said Minister Fedeli. “We are showing the world the strength of our province’s advancements Together, we’re working to build a stronger economy by forging new partnerships between Ontario innovators and global industry leaders, creating new opportunities for businesses in this province.”
Going Global launches alongside a landmark strategic partnership with Air Canada. Under this partnership, the Ontario Government through OVIN, will unlock exclusive discounts on flights for Ontario companies looking expand their businesses in the global market. This new initiative will facilitate OVIN’s engagement with new customers and enable them to offer innovative automotive and mobility solutions worldwide.
This undertaking aligns with Ontario’s commitment to forging strategic global partnerships with significant jurisdictions through international trade missions, thereby increasing the diversity of advantages not only for Ontario but also for other circuits looking to expand into Ontario’s competitive business market. Air Canada is providing an exclusive discount to Ontario companies as a result of this unique partnership with OVIN.
“Air Canada has long been a champion of innovation, and we take great pride in supporting Ontario’s economy through facilitating convenient connections to move people and goods across the country and around the world,” said Lisa Pierce, Vice President, Global Sales, Air Canada & Air Canada Vacations. “We are pleased to be the Official Airline Partner of the Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network and the Ontario Centre of Innovation in support of trade missions in conjunction with the Government of Ontario. This partnership will make available discounted travel to small and medium-sized business delegates in Ontario, so they can participate in such missions both in the province and internationally.”
A key part of this partnership is flight discounts applicable to Ontario trade missions. Lower travel costs are poised to entice more companies to join these vital trips, resulting in increased opportunities to access global markets and expand the reach of innovators globally. Increased participation in trade missions is projected to attract further investment to the province, foster competitiveness, and drive continued economic growth.
“Going Global represents an exciting new frontier for the countless innovators we support across the province. By connecting Ontario companies to global customers, we are fostering success and cultivating a culture of growth through innovation. Going Global is a lighthouse that signals our commitment to constantly unlock opportunities for small to medium-sized enterprises and support their growth into global markets.” – Raed Kadri Vice President, Strategic Initiatives, and Head of the Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network
With over 400 SMEs working on advanced automotive and smart mobility technologies, the new Going Global initiative builds on Ontario’s longstanding reputation as a leading automotive and mobility jurisdiction. This initiative is set to strengthen Ontario’s ability to drive SME growth and champion innovation across the globe.
About the Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network (OVIN)
OVIN is the flagship initiative of the Government of Ontario, led by the Ontario Centre of Innovation (OCI), designed to reinforce Ontario’s position as a North American leader in advanced automotive technology and smart mobility solutions such as connected vehicles, autonomous vehicles and electric and low-carbon vehicle technologies. Through resources such as research and development (R&D) support, talent and skills development, technology acceleration, business and technical supports, and demonstration grounds, OVIN provides a competitive advantage to Ontario-made automotive and mobility technology companies.
For more information
Alicia Pereira
416-888-4088