Advanced Manufacturing

manufacturingKingston has a strong history of innovative and leading manufacturing companies.  Businesses such as Dupont, Invista and Novelis have incorporated global research and development facilities alongside their plants in order to take advantage of the research partnerships available with Kingston's local universities. 

The manufacturing sector in Kingston is represented by over 100 companies who employ some 5,000 workers. According to the Conference Board of Canada, a significant rebound in manufacturing activity is forecast for 2010.

Kingston´s growing critical mass in manufacturing is the result of a number of competitive advantages:

  • our LOCATION at the heart of central Canada with immediate access to markets of 130 million people
  • LOW PROPERTY TAXES and reasonable cost of fully serviced land
  • access to a highly trained and MOTIVATED LABOUR FORCE with low turnover rates and absenteeism
  • continuous TRANSPORTATION ACCESS via rail and a highway that never closes
  • a STREAMLINED DEVELOPMENT process and comprehensive SUPPORT SERVICES including third-party carriers, courier hubs, customs brokers and information technology specialists
  • attractive INCENTIVES for investors

Available Supply Chain

At the centre of Eastern Ontario's manufacturing industry, there is a complete network of support services in Kingston which enable local companies to operate without reliance on other cities.  These important service firms include:

  • national trucking companies and cross-border shippers (third-party carriers)
  • regional courier hubs with later cut-off times
  • welding, machining and fabricating shops
  • millwright services
  • wholesalers of industrials, construction, safety and electrical equipment
  • a full range of industrial maintenace services including lift truck repair

Available Incentive Programs

  • Testimonial - MagasecOntario's R&D Tax Credits:
    Among the most generous in the G7, they can cut the cost of $100 in R&D to less than $41. Learn more...


  • Yves Landry - Achieving Innovation and Manufacturing Excellence (AIME):
    Innovative small - and medium-sized manufacturers will benefit from a new initiative to provide southern Ontario workers with advanced technological education and skills training. Learn more...

  • Southern Ontario Development Program:
    Up to 50% funding for eligible capital project costs, 75% for non-capital cost expediture. Learn more...


  • Eastern Ontario Development Fund:
    $80 million dollars available for business growth. Specific to Eastern Ontario, grants of up to 15% of eligible projects costs (up to $1.5 million). Learn more...

For more information on Kingston's manufacturing sector and investment opportunities, please contact John-Paul Shearer, Director of Business Development or Christa Wallbridge, Project Manager - Business Development at the Kingston Economic Development Corporation.