NRC — Manufacturing and Automotive Innovation Hub research facility

For Canadian manufacturers facing pressure to modernize production, shorten time to market, and compete in an increasingly automated global supply chain, access to advanced facilities and applied expertise can be just as valuable as direct funding. The NRC Manufacturing and Automotive Innovation Hub research facility offers that kind of hands-on support to automotive and advanced manufacturing businesses across Canada, particularly those looking to adopt Industry 4.0 technologies and next-generation production methods.

Operated by the National Research Council of Canada, the Hub is a large, collaborative research facility where manufacturers work directly with NRC specialists on real-world challenges. Businesses can use the space to design, test, and refine advanced manufacturing processes, from data-driven factory automation and robotic systems to additive manufacturing and new materials. Automotive-focused projects may include connected and autonomous vehicle technologies, vehicle lightweighting, electrification, and advanced components. Support is delivered on a fee-for-service basis, with project scope and costs varying depending on the technical work involved, making it suitable for both innovative SMEs and larger enterprises.

Located in London, Ontario but accessible to companies nationwide, the Hub is designed for rapid collaboration, confidentiality, and practical outcomes that can be integrated directly into commercial operations. For manufacturers considering a major technology shift or complex R&D project, learning more about how this facility works can clarify whether it’s the right fit for their innovation goals.