We are thrilled to share with you the most recent announcements and developments in the Windsor-Essex region for the month of November. See below to read our top highlights.
Battery Boost Technical Training Program exceeds training and employment targets
Invest WindsorEssex’s Automobility and Innovation Centre recently celebrated a major milestone for the Battery Boost Technical Training Program, delivered in partnership with NextStar Energy, Upskill Canada [powered by Palette Skills], the Government of Canada, Virtualware and The Job Shoppe.
Launched in early 2025 with more than $3.8 million in federal support, the program has far exceeded expectations. Originally targeting 400 trainees by March 2026, it has already trained 408 participants and placed 397 graduates in full-time battery manufacturing roles with an impressive 97 per cent placement rate. Graduates are earning an average of $13,900 more annually than before entering training and with 99 per cent entering the program with no prior battery or technician experience.
The celebration brought together partners, government representatives, employers and graduates to highlight this success and demonstrate the immersive virtual reality (VR) technology that powers the training. Guests heard remarks from Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens, Essex County Deputy Warden Joe Bachetti and Danies Lee, CEO of NextStar Energy, followed by participant testimonials and guided demonstrations of the VR lab. READ MORE | BATTERY BOOST INFOGRAPHIC
NextStar Energy expands into energy storage
NextStar Energy recently announced its Windsor facility will begin producing energy-storage system (ESS) lithium-ion battery cells in addition to electric vehicle batteries it already makes. The plant will use a new battery chemistry, lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP), optimized for grid-scale and commercial energy storage, alongside its existing nickel–manganese–cobalt (NMC) cells, giving the company flexibility to supply both ESS and electric vehicle markets.
Over 1,000 workers have already been hired at the plant, many of whom have received highly specialized training, both through NextStar Energy directly and through the Battery Boost Technical Training Program using virtual reality simulations, underscoring the company’s commitment to building local capacity in sustainable energy manufacturing. READ MORE
Regional Tariff Response Initiative in Southern Ontario
Invest WindsorEssex and the Windsor Essex Chamber of Commerce co-hosted an information session delivered by the Government of Canada, through FedDev Ontario that explored how the Regional Tariff Response Initiative (RTRI) can help businesses overcome trade disruptions. The session saw a strong turnout from Windsor-Essex companies, who actively participated and engaged with high-value questions throughout the webinar.
Is your business facing tariff-related challenges? The RTRI offers funding to help businesses impacted by tariffs and global trade disruptions, providing $125 thousand to $10 million in repayable funding or $125 thousand to $1million in non-repayable grants. Eligible small and medium-sized businesses can invest in digitization, automation, market expansion, supply-chain strengthening, reshoring production and more, driving productivity gains, cost savings and new market opportunities. Don’t miss this chance to grow and strengthen your business. Learn more and apply HERE.
Ontario opens applications for EV ChargeOn program for limited time
Ontario’s EV ChargeON Program is now accepting applications. This provincial funding initiative helps businesses, municipalities, non-profits and Indigenous organizations install new public EV chargers across Ontario. Eligible projects can receive 25 to75 per cent in funding toward Level 2 and Level 3 charging stations. Applications are open until Dec. 15, 2025. LEARN MORE and apply to bring public EV charging to your community.
Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network (OVIN) hosted an information session for those interested in submitting an application for the EV ChargeON program. View the full recording here.