Specialty steel manufacturer receives $5M from feds to improve technology

An advanced manufacturer in Welland, Ont. is receiving up to $5 million from the federal government to support its expansion to new markets in Canada and abroad.

Valbruna ASW is Canada’s only specialty steel producer and refines high-quality stainless steels. The company produces a combination of carbon, stainless and other specialty steel materials for application in numerous sectors including automotive, medical, aerospace, defence and energy.

By adopting new technologies, Valbruna ASW will become capable of producing stainless steel and nickel alloy, with improved machinability and heat and corrosion durability. As a result, the company will be able to increase its capacity to serve the U.S. market and increase domestic manufacturing.

This project will leverage over $24 million in private and other investment, including the repayable contribution from FedDev Ontario, maintain over 110 jobs and create 15 more jobs in the Niagara Region.

“This investment is strategic to the future of Valbruna ASW, our current and future employees, our customers and suppliers,” says Tim Clutterbuck, president, Valbruna ASW, in a statement.

“We are grateful for the support and recognition of the federal government through FedDev Ontario and are excited to undertake this project, which will improve our efficiency and productivity as well as reduce our environmental footprint.”

Valbruna ASW expects to double its local supplier purchases, resulting in a significant increase in domestic supply chain spending in regions such as Hamilton, Niagara and Toronto.