A new advanced automotive technology hub covering Simcoe County, Barrie and Orillia has officially launched, one of nine Regional Technology Development Sites the province is establishing across Ontario through a $17.5-million investment.
The Government of Ontario is channelling the money through the Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network (OVIN), according to the Simcoe County Economic Development Office.
The funding announcement was made in Toronto on Feb. 6, 2026, by OVIN, which is led by the Ontario Centre of Innovation. Alongside the provincial government's $17.5 million, the nine sites are backed by $32.8 million in matching industry investment and more than $19.3 million from the broader public sector — a combined commitment of more than $69 million.
For local readers, the launch means companies and entrepreneurs working in the advanced automotive sector in Simcoe County, Barrie and Orillia now have a dedicated regional program to plug into.
New program lead announced
The County of Simcoe Economic Development Office has hired Daniel Van Kampen as program lead for the new site. He will be responsible for the delivery, coordination and overall success of the Regional Technology Development Site for Simcoe County, Barrie and Orillia, the office said.
In the role, Van Kampen will also promote a culture of innovation across the region, according to the economic development office's announcement.
The position was previously posted as a three-year, temporary, full-time contract, with applications due by March 13, 2026. The county has now filled the role with Van Kampen.
What the sites do
Regional Technology Development Sites are part of Ontario's push to grow the advanced automotive sector outside of traditional manufacturing hubs. The network is designed to give companies, researchers and startups access to the resources they need to develop and test new automotive technologies close to home.
The inclusion of Simcoe County, Barrie and Orillia in the nine-site network places the region alongside other communities selected across the province for the program.
The County of Simcoe Economic Development Office, based in Midhurst, is coordinating the local site's rollout. The office says the program is intended to support the delivery of the RTDS for the region over the coming years.
