Ontario’s Digitalization Competence Centre (DCC) Improving the Productivity Gap

June 19, 2024

(Toronto, ON – June 19, 2024) Ontario’s Digitalization Competence Centre (DCC), managed by the Ontario Centre of Innovation (OCI), has made remarkable strides in addressing the productivity gap among Ontario’s small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Since its inception, the DCC has supported over 150 SMEs in their digital modernization journeys, resulting in substantial economic benefits projected to create 1,733 new full-time jobs and generate $389 million in revenues.

“Our government is proud to support the Ontario Centre of Innovation’s Digitalization Competence Centre. Our priority is ensuring Ontario continues to be the best place to start and grow a business in the digital age,” said Nina Tangri Ontario’s Associate Minister of Small Business. “It’s great to hear from entrepreneurs across the province and see first-hand how the program has helped them to adapt to new technology, upgrade operations, hire additional staff, and grow their businesses.”

Between October 2022 and March 31, 2024, the DCC facilitated a total of 156 Digital Modernization and Adoption Plans (DMAP) and 19 Technology Demonstration Projects (TDP). These projects have been instrumental in driving digital transformation across various sectors, ensuring that Ontario’s SMEs remain competitive in the global market. By integrating new digital technologies, businesses are not only able to enhance their operational efficiency but also foster significant economic growth within the province.

“We are proud of the significant progress the DCC has made in supporting Ontario SMEs,” said Claudia Krywiak, President and CEO of the Ontario Centre of Innovation. “The success stories we have seen so far are a testament to the importance of digital modernization. By continuing to support our local businesses in their digital transformation journeys, we are not only addressing productivity gap but also paving the way for a more prosperous and competitive economy in Ontario.”

The key outcomes on implementation highlight the impressive impact of the DCC’s efforts, with projected revenues of $389 million and the creation of 1,733 new full-time jobs. This success underscores the essential role that digital modernization plays in fostering economic development and competitiveness.

“The DCC offers a unique value proposition by providing a full suite of services for SMEs, ranging from education on digital transformation to the creation of customized roadmaps for each business, as well as implementation and integration support,” said Raed Kadri, Vice President, Strategic Initiatives, Business Development and Head of OVIN at OCI. “With the Ontario Digital Technology Vendor Database, the DCC promotes made-in-Ontario solutions, fostering local innovation and growth. By adopting new digital technologies, SMEs can achieve growth, which translates into more jobs and improved economic prospects for the province. Digitalization not only enhances efficiency but also boosts competitiveness in the global marketplace.

“The DCC’s impact and success in promoting digitalization among Ontario SMEs have been profound. There is a continued need for digitalization support within the Ontario SME community to sustain growth and competitiveness,” said Philippa King, AVP of Strategic Programs for OCI. “The DCC is instrumental in improving the productivity gap for Ontario SMEs through comprehensive digitalization strategies.”

For more information about the Digitalization Competence Centre (DCC) and its initiatives, please visit: https://www.oc-innovation.ca/programs/digitalization-competence-centre/
To view the success stories, visit: https://youtu.be/5E_zMv2WvRc?si=AM0l_a520dhIRoJA

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.