The Government of Canada invests in new testing equipment for manufacturers and innovators in Western Canada

PrairiesCan investment of over $600,000 provides increased capabilities for product development and enhances the competitive advantage of manufacturers in the West.

WINNIPEG, MB - Prairies Economic Development Canada - The Government of Canada is investing to ensure western Canadian manufacturers have the tools and resources they need to innovate and become more competitive. New digital equipment at the Prairie Agricultural Machinery Institute (PAMI) in Portage la Prairie, Manitoba will help improve product design and performance opportunities for manufacturers while reducing product failure rates.

Collaborating with PAMI allows manufacturers to improve product design early in the development cycle, consequently reducing both cost and risk. This testing equipment makes it possible to simulate the lifecycle of a component in a matter of days. Early testing enables manufacturers to rapidly innovate and adopt advanced materials and manufacturing techniques. Access to early testing in developing and validating new materials and methods reduces the failure rate of components or systems and enhances the competitive advantage of manufacturers in the West.

Today, the Honourable Daniel Vandal, Minister of Northern Affairs, Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada and Minister responsible for the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency announced funding of $602,510 to support the Prairie Agricultural Machinery Institute (PAMI) with a major upgrade to their hydraulic machinery testing system. This investment, through Prairies Economic Development Canada (PrairiesCan) and the Western Diversification Program, demonstrates Government of Canada support to Canadian businesses and organizations seeking to create, improve or enhance economic output, facilities and experiences.

With the support of PrairiesCan, PAMI has purchased and installed new digital equipment. The test results meet the industrial testing standards of manufacturers while providing faster, cheaper and more accurate third-party test data. Vital testing services like these are uniquely available in Western Canada through PAMI. The digital testing equipment ensures manufacturers can confirm product performance against global regulatory standards in multiple sectors. This means new market segment opportunities are open to original equipment manufacturers in the Prairie Provinces.

The Government of Canada is committed to building a strong, competitive Canadian economy by supporting business, innovation and community economic development. This investment supports original equipment manufacturers as well as small and medium size enterprises to increase competitiveness and capitalize on growth opportunities.