Ontario Government Backs Clover Tool Manufacturing’s $15M Investment to Expand Manufacturing and Create Jobs in Thornhill
THORNHILL — Ontario’s manufacturing sector is receiving a boost as the provincial government supports Clover Tool Manufacturing Ltd.’s $15 million investment to expand its operations in Thornhill, a move that will create 14 new jobs. The funding was announced today by Laura Smith, Member of Provincial Parliament (MPP) for Thornhill, highlighting the government’s commitment to fostering local job growth and economic development.
“Our government is building a strong Ontario and creating the conditions for a strong economy by supporting key investments in our community,” said MPP Smith. “Clover Tool Manufacturing Ltd.’s investment will boost the local manufacturing sector and create more good-paying jobs for workers and families in Thornhill.”
Clover Tool Manufacturing Ltd. plans to expand its facility to house a new 1,650-ton press. This advanced piece of machinery is expected to serve both existing and new clients, with several businesses already expressing interest in the high-capacity press for future projects. The new equipment will not only fulfill a recent contract but also provide additional revenue streams, thanks to its substantial production capabilities.
Vic Fedeli, Ontario’s Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade, emphasized the importance of the manufacturing sector in Ontario’s economy. “Employing more than 800,000 workers across the province, Ontario’s manufacturing sector is the economic engine of our nation,” said Fedeli. “Our government is proud to support local companies like Clover Tool Manufacturing Ltd as they expand their operations, and we thank them for their contributions to Ontario’s dynamic and growing manufacturing ecosystem.”
The Ontario government is backing the expansion with $1.85 million through the Regional Development Program’s Advanced Manufacturing and Innovation Competitiveness (AMIC) stream. This investment is part of Ontario’s broader $180 million commitment to supporting manufacturers across the province. To date, the program has assisted more than 135 projects, resulting in $1.9 billion in new investments and over 3,500 jobs created.
George Zeni, Vice President of Clover Tool Manufacturing Ltd., expressed appreciation for the government’s support. “Thanks to the Ontario Government’s commitment to this project, we’re excited to make this investment, which will provide both our existing and new customers with access to the latest technology and upgraded services,” Zeni said. “This investment not only enables our growth but also allows us to invest in our employees and their development, both now and in the years ahead.”
The news was met with enthusiasm by local officials, including Vaughan Mayor Steven Del Duca, who praised the expansion’s potential impact on the city’s economy and automotive sector. “This investment will generate additional revenue, create 14 new good-paying jobs, and further strengthen our local economy,” said Mayor Del Duca. “Vaughan is committed to fostering innovation and building a culture of continuous improvement. Our efforts to strengthen our automotive sector underscore our commitment to supporting the businesses that make this industry what it is today: one of our most economically vital.”
This initiative aligns with Ontario’s broader efforts to support manufacturing growth and innovation. As part of the 2023 Ontario Budget, the province has proposed a new Ontario Made Manufacturing Investment Tax Credit, which offers a 10 percent refundable corporate income tax credit to encourage local manufacturers to lower costs, invest in workforce development, and enhance competitiveness.
Ontario’s manufacturing support extends through the AMIC program, launched in 2022, which focuses on assisting advanced manufacturers across the province. Enhanced funding for this program aims to strengthen Ontario’s supply chains and bolster competitiveness, further positioning the province as a leader in Canadian manufacturing.
This partnership underscores Ontario’s ongoing commitment to economic growth, job creation, and the prosperity of local businesses across key sectors, reinforcing its status as a manufacturing powerhouse.
