Businesses with mobility technologies solutions encouraged to apply by February 12, 2024

Funding support for the new Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network (OVIN) Demonstration Zones in Markham and Vaughan are supported by the Government of Ontario through the Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network (OVIN)

MARKHAM, ON – December 11, 2023 –  The City of Markham and City of Vaughan, with funding from the Ontario Government through Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network (OVIN), officially launched the Demonstration Zone and are now inviting businesses to apply to demonstrate their mobility technologies. The first round of selected businesses will pilot their technologies in early 2024.

“The exciting launch of the Demonstration Zone in Markham not only supports businesses in the transportation sector but also reaffirms our commitment to advance the future of sustainable mobility technologies,” says Markham Mayor, Frank Scarpitti. “By bringing the most inventive and promising solutions to Markham, we are able to transform Markham into a frictionless city while continuing to be leaders in automotive innovation.” 

The launch comes after the announcement made earlier this summer of the $2.5 million in funding awarded to the cities of Markham and Vaughan by the Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network (OVIN) and Province of Ontario to develop automotive and smart mobility Demonstration Zones. The funding came as part of the Ontario government’s $56.4 million commitment, over four years, to support OVIN.

“As a world leader in the automotive sector, Ontario has everything we need to build the cars of the future, today,” says Vic Fedeli, Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade. “The official launch of the OVIN Demonstration Zone in partnership with the City of Markham will further assist our world-class STEM talent, small and medium-sized businesses, entrepreneurs and innovators in delivering autonomous technology solutions across the globe.”

"This is a significant milestone in the development of sustainable mobility technologies in Ontario,” says Raed Kadri, Head of the Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network. “The launch of the OVIN Demonstration Zone in partnership with the City of Markham and the City of Vaughan is a testament to Ontario’s commitment to fostering innovation and driving positive change in the transportation sector. With $2.5 million in funding provided from the Government of Ontario through OVIN, this initiative paves the way for businesses to showcase their groundbreaking solutions. We invite forward-thinking companies to join us on this transformative journey, as we work together to shape the future of mobility and lead the way in automotive innovation."

Businesses with innovative mobility and transportation solutions are encouraged to apply at ovindz.ca. The program offers two different streams for applications and there will be three intake rounds in total:

1. Challenge Area Stream: Specifically targeting two challenge areas identified by the Cities of Markham and Vaughan.

For Markham, the spotlight is on “First and Last Mile Solutions.” We are seeking technology providers who can help bridge the gap between Markham Centre and Unionville Go Station, with the aim of enhancing the commuting experience and connecting citizens to public transportation.

For Vaughan, the emphasis has been placed on “Cycle Lane Maintenance.” They are looking for businesses with innovative solutions to improve operational efficiency and uphold safety standards in cycle lane maintenance operations.

Applications are being accepted until January 29, 2024 for Vaughan’s Cycle Lane Maintenance challenge, and until February 12, 2024 for Markham’s First and Last Mile Solutions challenge.

2. General Open Call Stream: Open to all applicants with mobility technology solutions.

Interested companies can find application details and more information about the OVIN Demonstration Zone at ovindz.ca. Applications are being accepted until February 12, 2024. Applications will reopen with newly selected challenge areas in the Spring of 2024. 

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Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti’s Office:
At mayorscarpitti@markham.ca.

All other media inquiries / interview requests for the City of Markham:
media@markham.ca

About Markham: Markham, an award-winning municipality with more than 357,000 residents and the largest of nine communities in York Region, is home to over 650 headquartered companies and more than 1,500 high tech and life science companies. Markham is a leader in attracting foreign direct investment with more than 234 foreign companies located in the City. Founded in the 1790s, today Markham is Canada’s most diverse community and enjoys a rich heritage, outstanding community planning and services, and a vibrant local economy. 

About OVIN: The Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network (OVIN) is an initiative of the Government of Ontario, led by the Ontario Centre of Innovation (OCI), designed to reinforce Ontario’s position as a North American leader in advanced automotive technology and smart mobility solutions such as connected vehicles, autonomous vehicles and electric and low-carbon vehicle technologies.

Through resources such as research and development (R&D) support, talent and skills development, technology acceleration, business and technical supports, and demonstration grounds, OVIN provides a competitive advantage to Ontario-made automotive and mobility technology companies. For more information: https://www.ovinhub.ca

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