AarKel Tooling Technologies acquires Superior Tool and Mold, expanding Windsor-Essex manufacturing presence
AarKel Tooling Technologies has announced the acquisition of the shares of Superior Tool and Mold, located in Oldcastle, Ont. The acquisition marks a significant milestone in AarKel’s continued growth strategy and reinforces the company’s long-term commitment to strengthening its capabilities and expanding its presence within Canada’s tooling industry. Founded nearly 33 years ago, Superior Tool and Mold has earned a strong reputation for quality, reliability, and exceptional customer service. Through this acquisition, more than 80 highly skilled associates will join the AarKel organization, bringing valuable expertise and experience that will further enhance the company’s capabilities. “This acquisition represents an
CTMA expands industry leadership through integration of Automate Canada
The Canadian Tooling & Machining Association (CTMA) is proud to announce the integration of Automate Canada and many of its members into the CTMA community, marking a significant step forward in the evolution of Canada’s manufacturing and technology sectors. This strategic move reflects the changing landscape of advanced manufacturing and reinforces CTMA’s commitment to supporting innovation, competitiveness, and long-term industry growth. By bringing together leaders in tooling, machining, automation, robotics, and advanced technologies, CTMA is strengthening its position as a unified voice for the future of Canadian manufacturing. “For decades, CTMA has proudly represented the tooling and precision machining sectors,”
AV Gauge & Automation named one of Canada’s Best Managed Companies
AV Gauge & Automation achieved Platinum Club status with the Canada’s Best Managed Companies program by retaining its Best Managed designation for seven consecutive years or more. submitted photo CTMA member company, AV Gauge & Automation, has achieved Platinum Club status with the Canada’s Best Managed Companies program by retaining its Best Managed designation for seven consecutive years or more. Celebrating over 30 years, Canada’s Best Managed Companies program awards excellence in private Canadian-owned companies with revenues of $50 million or greater. To attain the designation, companies are evaluated on their leadership in the areas of strategy,
Government of Canada announces new $1B BDC program; $500M in additional funding for Regional Tariff Response Initiative
The Government of Canada has announced $1.5 billion to support several of Canada’s tariffed industries. This includes the creation of a new $1 billion Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) program that will strengthen Canada’s economic resilience. The program will be available to industries that manufacture and export products containing steel, aluminum or copper. It will support firms that use these metals in a significant way in their production and that have been impacted by the tariffs. As a result of the United States’ April 6, 2026, adjustment to its tariffs on products containing steel, aluminum and copper, the Government
Important Updates: Federal Tariff Support Programs Re-Opened and Expanded
The Government of Canada has announced updated support measures for businesses impacted by U.S. tariffs, including the reopening of FedDev Ontario’s Regional Tariff Response Initiative (RTRI) and the launch of a new financing program through the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC). FedDev Ontario – Regional Tariff Response Initiative (RTRI) Re-Opened FedDev Ontario’s RTRI program is once again accepting applications after previously being paused on May 1, 2026. The initiative provides funding to help tariff-impacted businesses respond to ongoing U.S. trade measures through: Market diversification and export development strategies Productivity and technology investments Supply chain adjustments Competitiveness and operational improvements
Ontario’s Economic Plan advances key CTMA priorities and strengthens outlook for manufacturing sector
The Canadian Tooling & Machining Association (CTMA) welcomes the Ontario government’s 2026 budget, A Plan to Protect Ontario, which outlines a comprehensive strategy to strengthen the province’s manufacturing sector, enhance global competitiveness, and build long-term economic resilience. Many of the measures announced reflect priorities CTMA has actively advanced through ongoing engagement with government, including tax competitiveness, investment in advanced manufacturing, workforce development, supply chain resilience, and reducing regulatory burden. At a time of global economic uncertainty, tariffs, and shifting trade dynamics, the province’s plan signals a strong commitment to supporting Ontario manufacturers and positioning the province as a leader




