Minister Fedeli Announces CIT Mining Challenge at BEV Conference in Sudbury

May 30, 2024

(May 30, 2024—Sudbury, ON) Today, at the BEV Conference in Sudbury, Minister Fedeli announced via video the Ontario Centre of Innovation’s (OCI) Critical Industrial Technologies Initiative Challenge. The announcement of the Addressing Mining Safety Through Critical Technologies Challenge, under the Critical Industrial Technologies (CIT) program, marks a significant step forward for the industry.

“One way to help secure a stronger mining industry is to ensure that Ontario mines are the safest in the world, so it is a pleasure to announce the Addressing Mining Safety Through Critical Technologies Challenge,” stated Minister Fedeli. “This challenge aims to support scalable solutions across the mining industry.”

The CIT Mining Challenge invites Ontario-based companies to develop and implement transformative technologies that address safety concerns in mining operations. The challenge focuses on the integration of advanced technologies such as 5G-enabled tele-operations, IoT devices, AI for air quality monitoring, and robotics or drones for use in unsafe areas. These innovations are expected to create safer working conditions and minimize risks for miners.

“Addressing Mining Safety through the Critical Industrial Technologies Challenge represents a significant opportunity for Ontario’s mining sector to harness the power of advanced technologies for improved safety,” said Claudia Krywiak, President and CEO of the Ontario Centre of Innovation. “We are committed to supporting innovative projects that can make a tangible impact on the safety and well-being of miners. This challenge not only encourages the development and adoption of transformative solutions but also underscores the importance of collaboration and innovation in driving progress in the industry.”

Selected projects will receive up to $1,000,000 in funding, with a 2:1 matching requirement by the applicant companies. The initiative encourages the integration, development, adoption, and acceleration of critical technologies including 5G, AI, Blockchain, Cybersecurity, Robotics, and Quantum. To be eligible, the lead applicant must be an Ontario-based SME, and collaborative partnerships are highly encouraged to foster innovation and achieve shared goals.

“Ontario’s commitment to safety and innovation in the mining sector is unparalleled. The Critical Industrial Technologies challenge for the mining sector is a testament to our dedication to harnessing cutting-edge technologies to protect our miners” said Raed Kadri, Vice President, Strategic Initiatives, Business Development and Head of OVIN at OCI. “By fostering strategic partnerships and leveraging advanced solutions, we can drive significant advancements in mining safety and create a model for other industries to follow.”

For more information on the Critical Industrial Technologies Initiative and how to apply for the challenge, please visit https://www.oc-innovation.ca/programs/cit/

“By fostering collaboration among Ontario-based SMEs and promoting the integration of advanced technologies, this initiative not only aims to safeguard our miners but also drives economic growth and positions Ontario as a leader in mining innovation,” added Philippa King, AVP of OCI’s Critical Industrial Technologies Initiative.

Media Contact:
Alicia Pereira
apereira@oc-innovation.ca

About the Ontario Centre of Innovation
The Ontario Centre of Innovation (OCI) brings industry, academic, and government partners together to invest in collaborative R&D, technology development, and commercialization opportunities that generate the highest return on innovation for Ontarians.

As an ecosystem connector, OCI initiates unparalleled partnership opportunities, develops and manages successful industry-academic collaborations, supports high-potential SMEs in commercializing ground-breaking research, and provides hands-on training and skills development opportunities for the next generation of highly-skilled talent.

OCI drives economic growth and job creation through investments in the development, commercialization, and adoption of advanced technologies.

For more information: https://www.oc-innovation.ca

About OCI’s Critical Industrial Technologies (CIT) Program:
The CIT program supports the development and adoption of critical technologies to drive innovation, enhance safety, and promote economic growth in Ontario’s key industries.