Several London-area businesses will share in $6 million in funding from the province’s Regional Development Program to lead a series of facility-expansion projects.

Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade Minister Vic Fedeli announced the funding on October 13. The money will be used to support combined investments of more than $43 million by several London-based businesses in the manufacturing and agri-food production sectors. The projects will help the businesses create and retain more than 260 combined jobs.

“These projects are making a significant impact in communities and economies across London and Southwestern Ontario by helping to secure private-sector investments to create conditions for long-term economic growth,” said Fedeli.

Agri-farm and bio-pharmaceutical mushroom grower Shogun Maitake is planning for the construction of a $31-million production facility. The company will use $4.5 million from the province to buy new processing equipment that will enhance productivity and make production more efficient.

“Shogun Maitake Canada has been operating in Canada since 2017 and has now received support from the Government of Ontario and the City of Thames Centre to expand its facility,” said Yoshinodu Odaira, CEO of Shogun Maitake Canada. “The new 135,000 square foot facility, which will cost more than $31.2 million, will create about 60 new jobs in order to eliminate a significant supply shortage.”

Machine part manufacturer Attica Manufacturing intends to invest $5.3 million in new capital equipment and modifications to its production facility in London. The company will use $531,000 from the province to purchase and install new CNC machinery, welding and welding position equipment, and lifting magnets.

Algonquin Bridge will spend more than $3.5 million to make plant improvements and robotics purchases that will allow them to produce compatible bridge products and optimized modular panel bridges. Founded in 1996, the company designs and manufactures steel bridges.

Arva Industries will invest more than $2.1 million to expand its plant in St. Thomas and purchase equipment for the engineering design and build of 12 hybrid rail-bound crane cars for New York City Transit.

Finally, Planet Shrimp will invest nearly $1.1 million in new processing equipment at its Aylmer facility to dramatically increase production.

The province is investing more than $100 million through the Regional Development Program from 2019 to 2023 to support distinct regional priorities and challenges. The program provides cost-shared funding to businesses, municipalities and economic development organizations to help local communities attract investment, diversify their economies, and create jobs.