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Manufacturing

Waterloo was built on the assembly line
We’re known for tech, but for 150 years our community has embraced manufacturing. We’re home to over 1,400 automotive, aerospace and food processing companies and the robotics, automation and tech companies that make them run. Find out why Toyota, ATS Automation, Christie and Pepsi FritoLay call Waterloo home.
Robotic Arm at Manufacturing Plant

Waterloo at a Glance

Our vibrant manufacturing ecosystem

Strategic Location

At the centre of Canada’s largest manufacturing corridor

Waterloo’s strategic location provides easy access to domestic and international markets. Our central location in southwestern Ontario provides quick access to Toronto Pearson International Airport, four additional international airports, Canada’s largest superhighway and numerous border crossings with the United States. It doesn’t matter if you’re a supplier or an OEM - you can get your products to your customers.

Proximity to markets:

  • Toronto: 100km/65mi
  • Detroit: 298km/185mi
  • Chicago: 740km/460mi
  • Boston: 870km/544mi
  • New York: 891km/553mi

Our Support Ecosystem

Discover our manufacturing ecosystem

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SMART Centre

Conestoga College’s SMART Centre is a regional hub for applied research to support manufacturing enterprises.

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Magna Centre for Supply Chain Excellence

The Magna Centre for Supply Chain Excellence at Conestoga College works to address Canada's productivity challenges through industry and government partnerships.

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Waterloo Centre For Automotive Research

WatCAR at the University of Waterloo focuses on collaborative research in automotive and transportation systems.

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They Choose Waterloo

From global leaders to the next big thing, these companies are building the future in Waterloo

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" For a manufacturer that’s looking to set up new automation there’s no better area than here in Waterloo. It is built for advanced manufacturing. You have access to some of the best engineering talent in the world. You have access to some of the best automators in the world. "

Simon Drexler

General Manager, Automation Products, ATS Automation

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