CITM-Supported Startups Propel Commercialization with Assistance from the Ontario Government via OVIN

Ontario's automotive and mobility sector is currently experiencing significant growth, particularly in the Hamilton-Halton region, due in large part to the initiatives implemented by the Centre for Integrated Transportation and Mobility (CITM). As one of the Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network’s (OVIN) Regional Technology Development Sites (RTDSs), CITM acts as a critical accelerator for innovators in smart, connected, and electrified transportation, expediting the journey from innovation to market.

CITM provides essential resources such as funding identification, technical expertise, and strategic partnerships for entrepreneurs in Ontario's automotive ecosystem. The OVIN bolsters the development and commercialization of cutting-edge electric, connected, autonomous, and Transportation-as-a-Service (TaaS) technologies through a variety of programs and funding avenues. By fostering collaborations between emerging startups, regional sites, established industry players, and academic institutions, OVIN facilitates the necessary partnerships for bringing innovative solutions to market more effectively.

Raed Kadri, Head of OVIN, notes Ontario's pivotal role in steering global innovations and leveraging regional strengths to unlock market opportunities. The province aims to connect innovators with accelerators to promote the growth of locally developed solutions for transportation challenges, thereby fostering economic prosperity.

Since 2023, CITM has supported various innovators in launching technologies that advance automotive and mobility solutions. One prominent example is Ben Fisher, the founder of GravitySlide, which developed GravityDrive—a sustainable propulsion solution for the RV and commercial vehicle market. Through CITM's support, Fisher garnered assistance in pitch development and met essential strategic partners, enabling him to secure funding through OVIN’s R&D Partnership Fund. This fund provides co-investments to Ontario-based SMEs to foster the development and commercialization of next-gen automotive technologies.

GravitySlide's collaboration with OVIN allowed them to pilot GravityDrive technology in real-world scenarios, leading to refinements that enhanced its functionality, including a user-friendly smartphone interface. Fisher emphasizes that mentorship, expert advice, and funding access are invaluable for startups in the mobility sector.

HYGN Energy is another notable company making strides in Ontario's mobility landscape. Focused on hydrogen-based systems that aim to reduce emissions in combustion-engine vehicles, HYGN is piloting clean power stations in remote areas of Northern Ontario, where fuel costs are prohibitive. Thanks to OVIN Technology Pilot Zones, HYGN is receiving considerable funding to test its technology, which is a significant step toward a more fuel-efficient and emission-free future. Their project at the Blue Water Bridge is converting vehicles into hydrogen hybrid units, advancing clean energy solutions.

CEO Thomas Ross envisions a future where clean hydrogen systems become commonplace, enabling global energy projects. Working with CITM has helped HYGN commercialize and scale its hydrogen technology, reinforcing Ontario's leadership in the automotive sector.

Overall, OVIN's funding and collaborative efforts are geared toward commercializing Ontario-made technologies that improve the automotive sector, enhance infrastructure, and promote sustainable transportation. The support provided allows cutting-edge projects to inch closer to real-world applications, thereby bolstering Ontario's stature in mobility innovation.

Those looking to elevate their smart mobility solutions are encouraged to connect with CITM for support on their commercialization journey.