The Governments of Prince Edward Island and Canada are continuing their investment into the Island's aerospace and defence industries by supporting MDS Coating Technologies (MDS) with a major facility expansion, which will also help create more high-skilled, well-paying jobs for the Island.

As a leader in advanced manufacturing and clean technology, MDS supports global commercial aviation and defence clients with advanced coating technologies that protect turbine engines, extend component life, improve fuel efficiency, reduce maintenance costs, and lower environmental impact. To support their international presence and export capacity, a combined federal-provincial investment of $110 million will go towards a $212 million facility and equipment expansion. The Slemon Park facility will increase by 50,000 square feet, where up to 120 new skilled workers are expected to join their team.

The province will be investing a total of $55 million, which includes a $45 million loan through Finance PEI, a $3 million capital grant through Innovation PEI, and $6.75 million through PEI's Labour Rebate Program. This funding will help MDS grow its facility, acquire new specialised advanced manufacturing equipment, and double its workforce.

The Government of Canada, through the Department of Innovation, Science and Economic Development (ISED), will also be contributing $55.7 million to go towards this significant facility and workforce expansion.

Both levels of governments will continue to invest in industry innovation and leaders like MDS to help grow national and provincial economies while pursuing ambitious national industrial sovereignty efforts.

Quotes:

"This investment in MDS Coating Technologies is a transformational milestone for Prince Edward Island's aerospace industry. By investing in sustainable innovation at home, our government is strengthening domestic supply chains, creating high-quality jobs for Islanders, and advancing Canada's economic and defence sovereignty through critical dual-use aerospace capabilities."

- The Hon. Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions

"With robust and domestic capabilities in advanced aerospace, Prince Edward Island is demonstrating not just the willingness, but also the ability to contribute to our nation's industrial defence ambitions. Our continued partnership with MDS ensures the Island and Canada together can help develop the cutting-edge technology needed right here at home to help secure our future sovereignty."

- The Hon. Rob Lantz, Premier of Prince Edward Island

"The continued success of powerhouses like MDS Coating Technologies shows that our small province can be a strategic place for innovation and successfully export world-class proprietary clean technology, commercial aviation and defence solutions. Our investment today is a clear commitment to not only growing their facility and creating new jobs, but also showing confidence in Island businesses as they seize the global opportunities to grow and diversify."

- The Hon. Jenn Redmond, Minister of Economic Development, Trade and Artificial Intelligence

"Prince Edward Island has the people and the post-secondary institutions to train the highly skilled workforce MDS Coating Technologies needs today and well into the future. The expansion is a clear signal to students and existing professionals that a career in advanced manufacturing and aerospace are possible right here on the Island."

- The Hon. Zack Bell, Minister of Workforce and Advanced Learning

"This investment is a transformational milestone for MDS Coating and reflects the strong partnership between industry and multiple levels of government. For more than 25 years, our advanced coating technologies have helped improve the durability, efficiency, and sustainability of turbine engines around the world — a testament to the dedication, innovation, and commitment of the entire MDS team. This next phase will create a world leading Coating Centre of Excellence, strengthen our global reach, expand our capabilities, create highly skilled jobs here on Prince Edward Island, and position MDS for the next generation of aerospace innovation."

- Phil Rodger, CEO of MDS Coating Technologies