More than 30 businesses in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) are set to benefit from a financial boost provided by the federal government amidst the ongoing tariff dispute between Canada and the United States.
Approximately $26 million in funding has been allocated through the Regional Tariff Response Initiative, which was introduced by the federal government in March 2025 as part of its strategy to address tariffs.
Evan Solomon, the Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation in Canada, disclosed this information during an announcement at Daybar Industries Ltd. in Brampton, Ontario, a company that specializes in manufacturing steel doors and frames. Solomon, who also oversees the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario), emphasized the need for a collective response to the current trade challenges with the U.S.
“We did not choose these circumstances as a nation,” Solomon remarked, alluding to the trade tensions with the U.S. “However, we have the power to dictate our response, and our approach will be united: we will work together to overcome these challenges.”
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The initiative is set to benefit 31 businesses in the GTA, with Daybar Industries receiving an investment of $700,000. Daybar Industries will be collaborating with FedDev Ontario on a $12 million project to enhance its market reach and optimize its supply chain.
“The scope of this initiative goes beyond mere equipment replacement,” highlighted Solomon. “It involves establishing a modern, digitally integrated production line to facilitate the faster delivery of customized Canadian-made products, particularly Canadian steel.”
Among those present at the announcement were Mark Dodson, the president of Daybar Industries, and Shafqat Ali, the President of the Treasury Board of Canada, who emphasized the importance of focusing on domestic control.