$26M federal investment reaches 31 GTA businesses amid U.S. tariff tensions
The Regional Tariff Response Initiative, launched last March, distributed nearly $26 million across companies like Daybar Industries in Brampton to help them adapt supply chains and expand markets.
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The federal government announced nearly $26 million in support for 31 Greater Toronto Area businesses facing U.S. trade headwinds under the Regional Tariff Response Initiative, launched in March 2025.
Canada's Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation Evan Solomon made the announcement Friday at Daybar Industries Ltd. in Brampton, a steel doors and frames manufacturer that received $700,000 in funding as part of a $12 million project to expand markets and improve supply chain resilience.
Other major recipients included SinaLite, a printing company that received $2,870,729; Oxygen8Solutions Inc., an air quality system manufacturer that received $2,532,000; and PakFactory Inc., a packaging company that received $1,603,125. The investment builds on a larger $7.5 billion federal package announced in August.
Solomon framed the support as a response to trade uncertainty beyond Canada's control: "We did not as a country choose these conditions. But we do control and choose how we respond and we are going to respond in one way: we are going to build together." He said the Daybar project would create "a modern, digitally-connected production line that can deliver customized Canadian-made products, Canadian-made steel much faster."
Treasury Board President Shafqat Ali added: "This investment will help businesses in Brampton and across the GTA grow, create good-paying jobs, and open up more opportunities for people and families."
Daybar Industries President Mark Dodson said the investment would help the company "continue delivering high-quality products and services while creating opportunities for growth and long-term success for employees and their families."
The announcement reflects ongoing pressure on manufacturers in the GTA as U.S. tariff threats mount. In July, GTA mayors convened to discuss ways to shield local businesses from looming tariffs.
The facts
How much federal funding was distributed to GTA businesses under this initiative?
Nearly $26 million was distributed across 31 Greater Toronto Area businesses under the Regional Tariff Response Initiative.
Which company received the largest individual grant?
SinaLite, a printing company, received $2,870,729, the largest single grant among the named recipients.
What is Daybar Industries planning to build with its $700,000 funding?
Daybar Industries in Brampton plans to build a modern, digitally-connected production line that can deliver customized Canadian-made steel products faster as part of a $12 million project to expand markets and improve supply chain resilience.
When was the Regional Tariff Response Initiative launched?
The Regional Tariff Response Initiative was launched in March 2025.
