Niagara Region helps local businesses explore opportunities in Canada’s growing defence sector

April 27, 2026

Today, Niagara Region Economic Development, in partnership with local area municipalities and the Niagara Industrial Association, brought together industry leaders, government representatives and funding partners to host a Niagara-focused Defence Sector Workshop.

With the federal government placing increased emphasis on strengthening Canada’s defence capacity and industrial readiness, the workshop focused on how Niagara manufacturers and subject matter experts can position themselves to contribute to national priorities and to build more resilient supply chains. It also highlighted advisory services and funding supports available to help local small- and medium-sized enterprises strengthen their readiness and explore new markets.

“Niagara Region is committed to helping local businesses identify and respond to emerging economic opportunities,” said Ron Tripp, Chief Administrative Officer. “This workshop created a valuable forum for Niagara companies to hear directly from sector leaders and government partners about what it takes to succeed in the defence sector and where support is available to help them get there.”

The workshop featured an introduction by Cheryl Ganaan, Acting Regional Chair and Mayor of West Lincoln, and a presentation from Ted Kirkpatrick, President of the Ontario Defence Association. Panel participants included: Emma Ferrone, Senior Account Executive with the Ontario Ministry of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade; Craig McClelland, Aerospace Lead with FedDev Ontario; Uriel Marantz, Senior Policy Advisor at the Department of National Defence; and Tara Parry, Lead Client Partner, Defence Program, and Michael Gatschene, Manager, Business Centre, Defence Sector, both with the Business Development Bank of Canada.

“By convening businesses, industry experts and public sector partners, we are helping Niagara companies better understand a complex and evolving sector,” said George Spezza, Director of Economic Development. “This is part of Niagara Region’s broader commitment to supporting business competitiveness, innovation and long-term economic resilience.”

Niagara Region Economic Development continues to provide awareness of the importance of sector/trade diversification, and investment readiness which will strengthen the Niagara regional value proposition.

For more information about Niagara Region Economic Development, visit niagaracanada.com.

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Media contact

Katie Wiens
Strategic Marketing Manager
Niagara Economic Development
katie.wiens@niagararegion.ca
289-407-9494