Grant Programs

Ontario’s automotive sector stands at a critical juncture. As global markets shift toward electric vehicles, autonomous systems, and advanced manufacturing technologies, companies throughout the automotive supply chain must modernize rapidly or risk being left behind. The Ontario Automotive Modernization Program (O-AMP) offers a strategic lifeline, providing substantial funding to help automotive businesses navigate this complex transformation. That’s where we come in as your Digital Adoption Consultant Partner.

Understanding O-AMP

The Ontario Automotive Modernization Program represents the provincial government’s commitment to maintaining the province’s position as a North American automotive manufacturing hub. Unlike generic business grants, O-AMP specifically targets the unique challenges facing automotive companies as they adapt to Industry 4.0 requirements.

This program recognizes that automotive modernization extends beyond simple equipment upgrades. True transformation requires comprehensive strategic planning, process re-engineering, workforce development, and technology integration—precisely the areas where expert consultation from a qualified digital adoption consultant becomes invaluable.

O-AMP Funding Structure and Scope

Program Overview: The O-AMP provides significant financial support for small- and medium-sized companies in the automotive sector to improve operational efficiency, competitiveness, and expand product offerings through the adoption of Industry 4.0 related technologies.

Three Core Funding Categories

A. Technology Adoption for Process Efficiency

Support for adopting advanced manufacturing hardware, software and/or training to improve processes and enhance competitiveness, including ERP systems, production tracking systems and advanced hardware implementation.

B. Tools and Technologies to Support New Product Development

Support for adopting technology and tools to assist with engineering and design of new products such as Computer-Aided Design & Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAD/CAM) systems, Finite Element Analysis (FEA) software, Design for Manufacturing (DFM) tools, rapid-prototyping tools, or other tools to support the New Product Introduction (NPI) process.

C. Lean Manufacturing

Support for improving operational efficiency and competitiveness through adoption of Lean Manufacturing techniques, including procuring services of external mentor/consultants with automotive industry expertise in Lean Manufacturing process efficiency.

Financial Support Structure

• Up to $150,000 for eligible project costs
• Projects must be no more than two years in duration
• Applicant must contribute at least 50% of eligible project costs through internal resources or private/bank financing
• Rolling application basis with specific intake periods

Eligible Applicants and Critical Requirements

Company Eligibility (All Criteria Must Be Met)

• Small- and medium-sized Ontario-based enterprises with fewer than 500 employees in Ontario
• Consolidated global revenues of less than $1 billion in most recently completed fiscal year
• Critical Revenue Requirement: At least 50% of the company’s total sales revenue must come from the automotive sector
• Must have a CRA Business Number
• Must be in the automotive supply chain to Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) of passenger and commercial vehicles
• Important Exclusion: Aftermarket parts industry is NOT eligible
• Must be a for-profit legal entity or limited partnership registered to carry on business in Ontario
• Must be owner or lessee in actual possession of a manufacturing facility in Ontario by project start date

Required Financial Documentation

• Minimum of two consecutive years of financial statements (auditor or accountant reviewed)
• Must include balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements
• Must be submitted as two separate documents
• Letter of financial attestation from signing authority confirming financial resources to complete the project
• Ontario Tax Compliance Verification (TCV) number required in application
• Ontario TCV certificate required before fund disbursement

Legal and Compliance Requirements

• Compliant with all applicable laws
• Free and clear of any fees, levies, charges, or taxes owed to Ontario government
• Compliant with Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005
• Compliance with Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training, and Skills Development
• Compliance with Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks

Critical Program Restrictions and Conditions

Funding Limitations

• Stacking Prohibition: Stacking with other provincial programs is not permitted
• Total funding from federal sources plus O-AMP cannot exceed 50% of total eligible project costs
• Companies with previous O-AMP projects must have successfully completed them by the intake deadline before reapplying

Project Requirements

• Projects must be achievable with demonstrated financing, project management structure, skills and experience
• Must demonstrate alignment with O-AMP objectives including economic gains, business improvements, and operational improvements
• Project scope cannot be significantly altered after Review Committee presentation
• Total eligible project costs cannot be reduced by more than 10% of original project cost

The Automotive Industry’s Digital Imperative

The automotive sector faces unprecedented disruption. Electric vehicle adoption, autonomous driving technology, and changing consumer preferences are reshaping the entire industry. Simultaneously, supply chain pressures, skilled labor shortages, and increasing quality requirements demand sophisticated technological solutions.

Key Transformation Drivers

• Electrification requiring new manufacturing processes and materials
• Autonomous vehicle components demanding higher precision and reliability
• Connectivity features necessitating software integration capabilities
• Sustainability requirements driving process efficiency improvements
• Global competition requiring cost optimization without quality compromise

ElevatIQ’s Automotive Modernization Expertise: Your Digital Adoption Consultant

ElevatIQ brings specialized experience in automotive sector digital transformation, understanding both the technical complexities and business realities facing modern automotive companies. As your dedicated digital adoption consultant, we provide comprehensive guidance throughout the O-AMP application and implementation process.

Our Comprehensive Methodology:

• Current State Assessment: We begin by thoroughly analyzing your existing manufacturing processes, technology architecture, and operational capabilities, ensuring alignment with O-AMP’s three core categories and the critical 50% automotive revenue requirement.
• Future State Visioning: Working closely with your leadership team, we develop a comprehensive understanding of your strategic objectives, market positioning goals, and operational excellence targets that align with O-AMP’s program objectives.
• Gap Analysis and Roadmap Development: Our detailed analysis identifies specific technology, process, and capability gaps that must be addressed to achieve your transformation objectives while ensuring compliance with all program requirements.
• Implementation Planning: We develop detailed project plans with realistic timelines under the two-year maximum duration, resource requirements, and risk mitigation strategies that demonstrate project achievability to the Review Committee.

O-AMP Application Process and Timeline

Current Application Round

• Program Opens: June 10, 2025
• Application Deadline: July 22, 2025
• Assessment Timeline: Applications will be assessed within 60 business days of submission deadline

Mandatory Application Steps

1. Transfer Payment Ontario (TPON) Registration

• Create ONe-key account and ID
• Register company on TPON (can take up to 5 business days)
• Requires CRA Business Number, Legal Name, Operating Name, and two organizational contacts

2. Required Application Documents (PDF Format Only)

• Completed TPON Application Form signed by individual with authority to bind company
• Copy of Articles of Incorporation or Limited Partnership Agreement
• Two consecutive years of financial statements (balance sheets, income statements, cash flow statements)
• Quotes from contractors/vendors for eligible cost items
• Letter of financial attestation from signing authority
• Project team member resumes
• Ontario Tax Compliance Verification (TCV) number

3. Optional Support Resources

• Automotive Parts Manufacturers’ Association (APMA) assistance: o-amp@apma.ca
• Ministry Senior Business Advisors by region
• Note: Using external consultants for application preparation has no bearing on success and costs are NOT eligible project expenses

Evaluation Process and Criteria

Review Committee Assessment

Applications are evaluated on completeness, clarity, project feasibility, and alignment with O-AMP goals and objectives. Funding decisions are at the Ministry’s sole discretion.

Two-Tier Review Process

Smaller Projects (up to $50,000 O-AMP funding)

• Review Committee assessment comprising external domain expert and Ministry reviewers
• May request presentations and/or site visits at Committee’s discretion

Larger Projects ($50,000 to $150,000 O-AMP funding)

• Initial Review Committee assessment
• Potential invitation for in-person or virtual presentation
• Possible site visits, particularly for Lean Manufacturing components
• Final funding recommendation based on both review stages

Post-Approval Requirements and Conditions

Mandatory Conditions Before Fund Disbursement

• Signed funding agreement with Ontario government
• Evidence of project financing
• Proof of insurance
• Compliance verification with multiple ministries
• Ontario Tax Compliance Certificate
• Supplier Registration Form completion

Ongoing Reporting Requirements

• Interim Progress Reports at project midpoint
• Final Report within 30 days of project completion
• Detailed proof of expenditures and financial attestations
• Seven-year record retention requirement for all financial documents

ElevatIQ’s Comprehensive O-AMP Support Services

Application Development

• Technical project scoping within O-AMP categories
• Financial projections and budget development
• Risk assessment and mitigation planning
• Compliance verification assistance
• Review Committee presentation preparation

Post-Approval Implementation

• Project management and milestone tracking
• Vendor selection and procurement support
• Compliance monitoring and reporting
• Interim and final report preparation
• Performance optimization and continuous improvement

Program Limitations and Important Considerations

Critical Program Restrictions

• O-AMP is a discretionary, non-entitlement program with limited funding
• Meeting all eligibility criteria does not guarantee approval
• Funding decisions are at Ministry’s sole discretion
• Projects may be publicly announced and reported

Successful Applicant Obligations

• Mandatory performance measures and milestone reporting
• Potential fund repayment if terms and conditions are not met
• Ongoing compliance with all applicable laws and regulations
• Participation in program evaluation and reporting activities

Your O-AMP Journey Starts Here

The Ontario automotive sector’s future depends on the modernization decisions made today. O-AMP funding provides an unprecedented opportunity to access both financial resources and expert guidance necessary for successful transformation, but success requires meticulous attention to program requirements and strategic application development.

ElevatIQ’s combination of automotive industry expertise, government funding program knowledge, and proven transformation methodology positions us as the ideal digital adoption consultant partner for your O-AMP journey. We understand the critical importance of the 50% automotive revenue requirement, the complexities of the two-tier review process, and the stringent compliance requirements that can make or break an application.

FAQs

Small and medium enterprises across Ontario are increasingly recognizing that digital transformation isn’t just an option. It’s a necessity for survival and growth in today’s competitive marketplace. The Ontario government’s Digital Modernization and Adoption Plan (DMAP) grant offers a strategic opportunity for businesses to accelerate their digital journey while reducing financial barriers.

What is the DMAP Grant?

The Digital Modernization and Adoption Plan (DMAP) is a government-funded initiative designed to help Ontario SMEs assess their current technology landscape and develop comprehensive digital transformation strategies. Unlike traditional funding programs that focus solely on technology acquisition, DMAP takes a holistic approach by emphasizing strategic planning and adoption readiness through qualified digital adoption consultant partnerships. The program operates under Ontario’s Digitalization Competence Centre (DCC), which connects businesses with qualified Digital Adoption Consultants (DACs) who provide expert guidance throughout the assessment and planning process.

DMAP Grant Breakdown: Funding Structure and Benefits

Financial Support

• Program Contribution: Up to 50% of total eligible project costs, capped at $15,000
• Applicant Contribution: Remaining 50% of total eligible project costs
• Maximum Total Project Value: $30,000

This cost-sharing model ensures businesses maintain ownership of their digital transformation strategy while accessing professional expertise at a significantly reduced cost.

Key Program Benefits

• Risk mitigation strategies for digital transformation
• Comprehensive current-state technology assessment
• Strategic digital adoption roadmap development
• Vendor-agnostic technology recommendations
• Implementation timeline and cost projections
• ROI analysis and business case development

DMAP Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for DMAP funding, businesses must meet specific criteria and work with an approved digital adoption consultant:

Business Requirements

• Must work with a qualified Digital Adoption Consultant
• Incorporated federally or provincially with a valid Business Number
• For-profit, privately owned business
• Between 1-499 full-time equivalent employees

Project Requirements

• Commit to plan implementation within 24 months
• Engage a qualified Digital Adoption Consultant (DAC)
• Complete comprehensive business and technology assessment
• Develop actionable digital adoption plan

What’s Included in a DMAP Assessment?

A comprehensive DMAP plan encompasses several critical components:

Current State Analysis

• Skills Gap Analysis: Current team capabilities versus digital transformation requirements
• Business Information Review: Revenue streams, operational processes, market positioning
• Technology Infrastructure Assessment: Existing systems, software, hardware, and digital capabilities
• SWOT Analysis: Strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats in current digital landscape

Digital Adoption Strategy

• Technology Recommendations: Vendor-agnostic solutions aligned with business objectives
• Process Optimization: Identifying automation opportunities and efficiency improvements
• Data Strategy: Information management and analytics capabilities development
• Cybersecurity Assessment: Risk evaluation and security enhancement recommendations

Implementation Roadmap

• Phased Approach: Prioritized implementation timeline focusing on high-impact, low-risk initiatives
• Resource Requirements: Skill development needs and staffing considerations
• Budget Planning: Detailed cost projections and financing options
• ROI Projections: Expected returns and performance metrics
• Risk Management: Potential challenges and mitigation strategies

The ElevatIQ Advantage: Your DMAP Digital Adoption Consultant

ElevatIQ serves as your qualified digital adoption consultant, bringing extensive experience in digital transformation and a proven methodology that aligns perfectly with DMAP requirements. As an experienced digital adoption consultant, we understand the unique challenges facing Ontario SMEs in their digitalization journey.

Our Comprehensive Approach

• Assessment Phase: We begin with a thorough evaluation of your current processes and technology architecture. This includes analyzing your existing systems, identifying integration challenges, and understanding your operational workflows.
• Strategic Planning: Following the assessment, we develop a comprehensive digital roadmap containing necessary changes to processes, data management, and systems architecture to achieve your desired future state.
• Executive Alignment: We work closely with your executive team and board to ensure strategic alignment, presenting clear business cases and implementation plans that demonstrate tangible value.
• Action Plan Development: Our phased approach prioritizes lowest-hanging fruit with highest financial rewards, whether through system selection, implementation, or optimization of current technologies.

Specialized Services Include

• Transformation readiness assessment
• Vendor-agnostic digital process architecture development
• Business process re-engineering and documentation
• Digital roadmap and business case development
• Enterprise technology selection support
• Requirement and project management
• RFP development and contract negotiation support

Application Process and Timeline

• Step 1: Initial Consultation – Contact ElevatIQ to discuss your digital transformation objectives and assess DMAP eligibility.
• Step 2: Application Preparation – We assist in preparing comprehensive application documentation, including project scope definition and expected outcomes.
• Step 3: Application Submission – Apply through the official Ontario government portal with ElevatIQ as your designated digital adoption consultant.
• Step 4: Project Execution – Upon approval, begin comprehensive assessment and plan development process.
• Step 5: Plan Delivery – Receive detailed DMAP report with actionable recommendations and implementation roadmap.

Maximizing Your DMAP Investment

To ensure maximum value from your DMAP investment, consider these strategic approaches:

• Timing Considerations: Apply when your organization has capacity to engage meaningfully in the assessment process and implement recommendations.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Ensure key decision-makers are available throughout the assessment period for optimal results.
• Implementation Readiness: Prepare for post-assessment implementation by considering budget allocation and resource availability.
• Long-term Vision: Align DMAP planning with broader strategic objectives and growth plans.

Why Digital Transformation Can’t Wait

Recent market research indicates that digitally mature companies demonstrate significantly higher revenue growth, operational efficiency, and customer satisfaction compared to their traditional counterparts. The DMAP grant removes financial barriers that often prevent SMEs from accessing professional digital transformation expertise from a qualified digital adoption consultant. Moreover, the competitive landscape continues evolving rapidly. Businesses that delay digital adoption risk losing market share to more agile competitors who leverage technology for enhanced customer experiences, streamlined operations, and data-driven decision-making.

Getting Started With ElevatIQ As Your Digital Adoption Consultant

ElevatIQ’s track record as a trusted digital adoption consultant in digital transformation consulting and deep understanding of government funding programs positions us as the ideal partner for your DMAP journey. Our vendor-agnostic approach ensures recommendations are tailored to your specific needs rather than influenced by technology partnerships.

FAQs