FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Regional Manufacturers Launch the Dual-Use Manufacturing Ecosystem Founding Assembly to connect industry leaders and expand opportunities within Canada's defence sector
[July 24, 2026 - Barrie, ON] — Manufacturers across Barrie and Simcoe County are launching the Dual-Use Manufacturing Ecosystem to help organizations identify new business opportunities, build strategic relationships and strengthen their participation in Canada's evolving defence sector.
The initiative will officially begin with the Dual-Use Manufacturing Ecosystem Founding Assembly, an invitation-only gathering of senior industry leaders on Thursday, August 6, 2026.
The initiative is presented by Avro Precision Laboratories Inc. in partnership with the Barrie Chamber of Commerce, D. G. Bevan Insurance, Georgian College, CIBC, BMG Glass & Aluminum, BDO and Oro Station as Founding Partners.
The region already has extraordinary manufacturing capability. The opportunity now is to connect those capabilities and pursue larger opportunities together.
The Dual-Use Manufacturing Ecosystem provides a framework for organizations to identify complementary expertise, pursue larger opportunities and build strategic relationships that create long-term business value.
The Founding Assembly will bring together CEOs, presidents and senior decision-makers from manufacturers, educational institutions, industry organizations and government to begin shaping an ecosystem built by industry, for industry.
Founding Partner Perspectives
"Bevan Insurance is proud to be a founding partner of the Dual-Use Manufacturing Ecosystem Founding Assembly and supporting partner of Barrie's newest defense manufacturer, Avro Precision Laboratories Inc. This event brings together some of Barrie's best entrepreneurs to share, partner, and support each other for the growing opportunity within the defense industry."
"CIBC is proud to be involved with the networking event at Avro Precision Laboratories Inc. and working alongside the other Dual Use Manufacturing Ecosystem Founding Assembly Partners. Avro Precision demonstrates a strong commitment to excellence and provides meaningful dedication to the community. We’re pleased to come together to support an event that highlights collaboration, leadership, and local impact."
"Avro Precision Laboratories Inc. is excited to be hosting the Dual-Use Manufacturing Ecosystem Founding Assembly. Involvement with the Assembly has already resulted in new opportunities to help support our growth within the manufacturing industry. The team at Avro Precision Laboratories Inc. is looking forward to connecting with innovative companies and partners from across the region."
Organizations interested in participating in the ecosystem are encouraged to submit an Expression of Interest through the initiative's website. Participation in the Founding Assembly is by invitation, with organizations selected based on their alignment with the initiative's objectives and the overall balance of the ecosystem.
Learn more or submit an Expression of Interest at:
For more information, please contact:
Paul Markle
Chief Executive Officer
Paul@BarrieChamber.com
121 Commerce Park Drive, Unit A, Barrie, Ontario L4N 8X1
(O) 705 - 721 - 5000Â ext. 5
(C) 249-288-3540
About the Barrie Chamber of Commerce
Now 100 Years Old!
The Barrie Chamber of Commerce is a dynamic organization dedicated to fostering a vibrant, thriving business community in Barrie and the surrounding areas. As a voice for local businesses, we advocate on behalf of our members at all levels of government, championing policies that drive economic growth and contribute to our region's overall prosperity. Through meaningful events, networking opportunities, educational resources, and support for business development, we empower our members to succeed and grow. With a proud history of serving the community, the Barrie Chamber of Commerce remains committed to making Barrie a great place to live, work and do business.