Trudeau visits Bromont
Federal government announces near $60 million investment into semiconductor initiatives
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced in Bromont on April 26 a federal investment of $59.9 million to bolster IBM Canada and the Miqro Innovation Collaborative Centre (C2MI) in their semiconductor initiatives. This funding is part of a larger scheme with a total value of $226.5 million aimed at enhancing Canada’s role in the high-tech sector, specifically in quantum technologies and semiconductor production.
“Today’s announcement has a strategic importance,” said Trudeau to reporters surrounded by high tech machinery on IBM Bromont’s factory floor.
“These microchips are at the basis of everything. We have them in our computers and our telephones and in our medical equipment.
“The way that we assemble chips, how they’re laid out and how they’re organized, is quite essential for the proper operation of these advanced technologies, and the research and development conducted here is an essential element.”
The investment is anticipated to bring significant economic growth to Quebec and create over 280 new skilled jobs in the Bromont region, while also offering up to 240 co-op positions to foster the next generation of innovators in semiconductor packaging and quantum technologies, according to an April 26 press release.
This substantial federal contribution is supplemented by additional support from the government of Quebec. Together, they aim to extend the manufacturing capacity and capabilities at IBM Canada’s semiconductor packaging facility in Bromont.
This effort is expected to help the facility keep pace with market demands, attract new clients, and reinforce domestic production capabilities essential for both businesses and consumers.
The investment aligns with a commitment announced by Trudeau and President Joe Biden in March 2023. This commitment focuses on developing a cross-border semiconductor manufacturing corridor, starting with significant investments like the one at IBM’S Bromont facility to develop new and expanded packaging and testing capabilities.
Semiconductors are vital for the security and economic prosperity of Canada, as they play a crucial role in numerous industries, including automotive and electric vehicles, defense, telecommunications, and lowcarbon technologies.
Canada’s semiconductor sector comprises over 500 domestic and multinational companies involved in the research, development, and manufacturing of microchips, highlighting the strategic importance of this industry.
With over 282,000 employees working in 175 countries, IBM is one of the largest and most longstanding IT product and service providers globally. Its advanced semiconductor packaging facility in Bromont stands as the largest of its kind in North America.
C2MI is pivotal within Canada’s semiconductor industry. It offers unique infrastructure, cutting-edge scientific equipment, and a network of nearly 400 organizations spanning various sectors, supported by a team of professionals.
At the event, Brome-missisquoi MP Pascale St-onge emphasized the University of Sherbrooke and various small and medium businesses here
will benefit from what’s happening. She said it will lead to thousands of excellent jobs for future generations.
“So, thank you, Mr. Prime Minister, for putting your confidence in Bromont by investing here in the extraordinary, smart employees that do wonderful things here for Canada and for the planet,” she said.