Two Delta companies have received federal funding to move forward with environmental initiatives, build business, increase employment opportunities, and develop global competitiveness.
Honourable Carla Qualtrough, MP for Delta and Minister of Sport and Physical Activity, representing the Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of Emergency Preparedness and responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada (PacifiCan), announced a significant investment of $1,628,450 in funding through the Business Scale-up and Productivity program for Plascon Plastics and GridGear.
Plascon Plastics is set to receive over $1.2 million to enhance its manufacturing capabilities for sustainable plastic injection moulding. Spearheading innovation in incorporating post-consumer recycled materials into their processes, including recycled plastics, used car tires, and carpet fibers, Plascon Plastics will use the funding to acquire new equipment, expand its workforce, and diversify its product range. Notably, the development of a transparent 4.15-gallon pail — a unique offering in North America — underscores the company’s commitment to innovation and sustainability.
The global plastic injection molding market is projected to reach US$266 billion by 2030, reflecting a compounded annual growth rate of 4.8% from US$183 billion in 2022.
Another Delta company, GridGear, a leader in electricity submetering technology, will benefit from $381,750 in funding to ramp up production and commercialize its latest submetering technology, which helps users to monitor and optimize their energy consumption. This advancement opens doors for GridGear to cater to industrial clients with higher voltage requirements.
Installation of sub-metering technology in the multi-residential sector has led to a significant reduction in electricity consumption, with studies showing reductions of 34% for non-electrically heated buildings and 27% for electrically heated buildings.
Both investments align closely with PacifiCan’s mission to bolster advanced manufacturing and clean technology sectors in B.C., fostering innovation, economic growth, and employment opportunities.
MP Qualtrough had positive words for the initiative “Demonstrating Delta’s prowess in fostering innovation, Plascon Plastics and GridGear Solutions exemplify the spirit of entrepreneurship driving our local economy forward. With PacifiCan’s backing, these companies are poised for remarkable growth, reinforcing Delta’s standing as a beacon of economic advancement in BC.”
The support from PacifiCan was welcome news to GridGear Solutions Director Operations, Colton Gabara. “Our commitment to innovation and energy efficiency fuels our mission to empower customers worldwide. With PacifiCan’s support, we are excited to expand our reach and help communities globally embrace sustainable practices for a brighter future.”
MP Sajjan added, “The support from PacifiCan enables local companies like Plascon Plastics and GridGear Solutions to not only thrive but also contribute significantly to building a cleaner and more sustainable future. We are proud to champion businesses driving positive change.”
As the dedicated federal economic development partner for British Columbians, PacifiCan facilitates local business growth, global competitiveness, job creation, and inclusive economic development.
PacifiCan’s Business Scale-up and Productivity program offers interest-free, repayable funding to high-growth businesses, supporting their efforts in scaling up and producing innovative goods, services, or technologies.