SONAMI
A partnership model of post-secondary institutions helping manufacturers stay competitive
We are a Niagara College-led network of post-secondary institutions, who, through their respective Research and Innovation Centres, collaborate with small- and medium-sized companies to tackle their manufacturing-related challenges. We conduct projects that provide innovative solutions, such as process optimization, designing and testing prototypes, evaluating new technologies, and developing and
04/17/2026
Now Accepting Project Intake Applications – Is Your Organization a Fit for SONAMI Funding?
With SONAMI—funded by the Government of Canada through FedDev Ontario—we support collaborative applied research projects that help Southern Ontario manufacturers solve challenges, improve productivity, and accelerate innovation
Swipe through the carousel and answer three quick questions.
Yes to all three? We’d like to work with you.
Our current cohort intake is open until May 29, 2026.
👉 Contact us to start: https://sonami.ca/contact/
Funded by the Government of Canada through the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario).
Last month, we marked a major milestone: 10 years of SONAMI.
The numbers from the first decade speak volumes:
Nearly 500 industry collaborators
Over $28M in strategic government investment
280 commercial outcomes
490+ new jobs created & 395 jobs supported
Over $22.5M in commercial sales to date
This is the proof of what happens when Ontario innovation meets the right partners at Niagara College Research & Innovation.
The next decade starts now.
04/10/2026
Here's what manufacturers often ask us before applying.
"How long does the process take?"
We'll walk you through it. Most projects move from first conversation to application in a few weeks.
"Do I need a research partner already?"
No – that's what we do. We'll introduce you to the right researchers.
"What if my research project idea is still early‑stage?"
Perfect. We love helping ideas grow.
If you've been thinking about an innovation project or a manufacturing challenge, now's the time to talk.
📌 Let's start the conversation: https://sonami.ca/contact/
Funded by the Government of Canada through the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario).
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04/08/2026
Real manufacturers. Real results.
Behind every successful project is a partnership that worked. 🤝
Across Southern Ontario, manufacturers and SMEs are tackling real challenges – from next‑gen EV charging and advanced heat tracing to life‑saving safety devices
Swipe to see how Ontario manufacturers are solving big challenges with applied research.
https://sonami.ca/category/success-stories/
Funded by the Government of Canada through the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario).
Bio Link: https://sonami.ca/category/success-stories/
Success Stories Archives | SONAMI
04/01/2026
What a night! 🎉 Last week, we celebrated a major milestone—our 10th Anniversary SONAMI party, and it was one for the books.
From the heartfelt testimonials to the incredible energy in the room, it was a perfect reflection of what collaboration looks like. A huge thank you to everyone who joined us and to the dream team who made it happen.
Here’s to 10 years of innovation, and to the people who make it fun. 🥂
📸 Swipe to see the highlights!
04/01/2026
SONAMI is now a member of the Niagara Industrial Association (NIA)!
Check out the full newsletter for NIA update, industry news and upcoming events https://lnkd.in/eR3dMvzN
We're excited to join a network dedicated to supporting local manufacturing and driving innovation across Niagara.
03/20/2026
Here’s something many manufacturers ask about research funding 🤔
“Is my organization the right fit?”
With SONAMI—funded by the Government of Canada through FedDev Ontario—eligibility is straightforward and based on a few key criteria. Consider these four questions:
Are you a small-to-medium-sized manufacturer in Southern Ontario?
Do you have an innovation idea?
Do you have a manufacturing challenge you’re trying to solve?
Are you open to collaborating with researchers? (We’ll help facilitate those connections.)
That’s it. If you answered yes to all four, you’re exactly the type of partner we’re looking to support.
Early-stage ideas are welcome. The process is clear, and our team is here to guide you through each step.
Curious if your project idea or innovation is a fit? Let’s start a conversation.
📢 Learn how we can support you: https://sonami.ca/contact/
Funded by the Government of Canada through the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario).
03/18/2026
A Night of Great Connections in Niagara! 🎉
Last week, we had a great time at the Niagara Manufacturing Pub Night, connecting with members of the advanced manufacturing community.
It was a fantastic opportunity to catch up, meet new faces, and continue building the relationships that drive collaboration and innovation across the network.
Thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to a successful evening. We look forward to continuing the conversation.
📸 Check out some highlights from the night below. Feel free to tag yourselves and your friends!
03/13/2026
Here's something most manufacturers don't realize about applied research funding.
With SONAMI — funded by the Government of Canada through FedDev Ontario — a project worth $88,000 only requires about $14,400 in cash. The rest? Your team's time, expertise, and use of your equipment and facilities.
Here's the breakdown:
• Total project value: $88,000
• SONAMI contribution: $40,000
• Your match ($1.20 for every $1 of SONAMI funding — 1:1.2 ratio): $48,000
• Your cash (30% of match): $14,400
• Your in-kind (70% of match): $33,600
That's what "in-kind" means — your existing resources count as real value. Your time counts.
If you've been thinking about starting an innovation project, now's your chance. We're here to help you navigate every step.
👉 Learn how we can support you: https://sonami.ca/contact/
Funded by the Government of Canada through the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario).
Click here to claim your Sponsored Listing.
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