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 U.S.
The total amount of close to $26 million is part of the Regional Tariff Response Initiative, a program initiated by the federal government in March 2025 as a component of its strategy to counter tariffs.
Evan Solomon, the Canadian Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation, disclosed this development on Friday at Daybar Industries Ltd. in Brampton, Ontario, a manufacturer of steel doors and frames.
Solomon, who also serves as the minister overseeing the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario), emphasized the nation’s proactive approach in responding to the tariff challenges with the U.S.
According to Solomon, the initiative is backing 31 businesses in the GTA, with Daybar Industries slated to receive a $700,000 investment. This investment is part of a $12-million project in collaboration with FedDev Ontario to enhance market expansion and streamline the supply chain.
The primary focus is on upgrading equipment to establish an efficient, digitally-connected production line capable of delivering customized Canadian-manufactured products and steel promptly.
Among the key attendees at the announcement were Mark Dodson, the President of Daybar Industries, and Shafqat Ali, President of the Treasury Board of Canada, who emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting domestic efforts.
U.S. President Donald Trump is banning the import of Canadian alcohol, motorcycles and various other products into the U.S. CBC Naama Weingarten spoke to GTA business owners about how they could be impacted.
The investment aims to foster growth, create quality employment opportunities, and expand prospects for individuals and families in Brampton and the GTA, as stated in a FedDev Ontario press release.
Dodson expressed gratitude for the government’s support and assurance, noting the significance of having backing during challenging periods.
He emphasized the understanding shown by the government towards the business community’s challenges and the tangible support provided to companies like Daybar to navigate through turbulent times.</p
