CAD drawing of a car with Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network (OVIN) , Ontario, and Windsor-Essex Regional Technology Development logos

Windsor-Essex RTDS

The Windsor-Essex Regional Technology Development Site (WE RTDS) is a proud partner of the Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network (OVIN), a collaborative initiative supported by Ontario Centre of Innovation (OCI), Ontario’s Ministry of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade, and the Ministry of Transportation.

Driving the future of mobility innovation

As Ontario’s flagship initiative for the automotive and mobility sector, OVIN, the Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network, is driving economic development and shaping the future of safer, cleaner and more efficient transportation.

Through Regional Technology Development Sites (RTDS) across the province, OVIN support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in developing, testing and prototyping advanced automotive technologies and smart mobility solutions.

The seven RTDS locations and one demonstration zone are located in Waterloo, Ottawa, Hamilton, Durham, Windsor-Essex, Toronto, Markham-Vaughan and Northern Ontario. Each site provides companies with expertise, resources, and direct access to infrastructure tailored to specific focus areas in the mobility sector, including vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, energy management, electric powertrains and mobility data analytics. These sites create a collaborative ecosystem that allows startups and SMEs to develop, test, and validate cutting-edge automotive and mobility solutions. 

About the Windsor-Essex Regional Technology Development Site

Windsor-Essex Regional Technology Development logo

The Windsor-Essex Regional Technology Development Site (WE RTDS) is a premier hub for automobility innovation, dedicated to accelerating the growth of Ontario-based SMEs and startups. We provide comprehensive, high-impact support in product development, software solutions, research and development, business growth, and mentorship—all at no cost to our clients. By leveraging cutting-edge technology, industry expertise and strategic partnerships, WE RTDS empowers companies to develop breakthrough mobility solutions, scale their businesses and compete on a global stage. 

Our partners

The Windsor-Essex Regional Technology Development Site collaborates with industry leaders and academic institutions to deliver world-class programs, including:

Current programs

In partnership with SimuTech Group, the Windsor-Essex Regional Technology Development Site provides FREE access to Ansys startup bundles, offering eligible Ontario-based mobility startups industry-leading simulation software valued at up to $1,500,000. These bundles include tools for structural mechanics, fluid dynamics, electromagnetics, optics, photonics, and more, enabling startups to develop cutting-edge products with greater speed, efficiency and accuracy.

Participants also receive 25 hours of technical support from SimuTech engineers to maximize the software’s capabilities. This initiative removes financial barriers, empowering startups to accelerate innovation and optimize product development in the mobility sector.

The Windsor-Essex Regional Technology Development Site, in partnership with the SHIELD Automotive Cybersecurity Centre of Excellence at the University of Windsor, delivers a comprehensive two-stage automotive cybersecurity program to help companies secure their products against emerging cyber threats. 

  • Stage one: Threat Analysis and Risk Assessment (TARA) – The SHIELD team conducts a full TARA using the ASRG Threat Catalogue, aligned with ISO/SAE 21434 standards, to identify and assess security risks in automotive systems. 
  • Stage two: Automated Penetration Testing – Using Keysight technology, SHIELD will conduct automated penetration tests to uncover vulnerabilities and assess system resilience against cyberattacks. 

This program provides companies with critical cybersecurity insights and strategies, ensuring the development of safer, more secure vehicles and technologies. 

The Prototype Pipeline Program is designed to accelerate the launch and scale-up of automobility startups. This high-impact program provides: 

  • Expert mentorship and strategic guidance
  • Financial support covering eligible costs 
  • Access to industry-leading resources  

By removing financial barriers and offering specialized support in product development, business strategy, and commercialization, the Prototype Pipeline Program equips startups with the connections, tools and funding needed to succeed in the rapidly evolving mobility industry.

Get involved

The Windsor-Essex Regional Development Site is committed to driving innovation, fostering collaboration, and supporting the growth of Ontario-based mobility startups and SMEs. Whether you’re looking to enhance your cybersecurity, leverage cutting-edge simulation software, or accelerate your product development, WE RTDS has the programs and expertise to help you succeed. 

Please fill out the following form for further program information and to connect with one of our program managers.