Invitation only: August 6 2026
Presented by:
Barrie Chamber
Founding Partners
"Canada's historic investment in defence presents a generational economic opportunity. Our region is strategically positioned to seize it. Collective action will maximize the economic benefits for decades to come."
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Dual-Use Manufacturing Ecosystem Launches with More Than 100 Industry Leaders
BARRIE, ON. August 7, 2026 – More than 100 people representing over 50 companies gathered yesterday at Avro Precision Laboratories for the launch of the Dual-Use Manufacturing Ecosystem.
As investment in Canada's defence and manufacturing sectors continues to grow, businesses across Barrie and Simcoe County are looking at how they can position themselves for new opportunities. Yesterday's event marked the launch of a business-led effort to help local businesses compete in Canada's evolving defence and manufacturing landscape.Â
"Our goal is to foster relationships that help businesses identify opportunities, complement one another's capabilities and build stronger, more competitive teams. Teams that can confidently pursue larger, more complex opportunities than any one business could pursue alone. And when those contracts land, this ecosystem will be there to support the ramp up and expansion businesses need to succeed," said Paul Markle, President & CEO of the Greater Barrie Chamber of Commerce.
"We wanted entrepreneurs meeting entrepreneurs. That's where partnerships begin, and that's what this ecosystem is designed to create," said John Guarasci, Commercial Account Executive, D.G. Bevan Insurance.
Throughout the afternoon, companies met potential suppliers, customers, collaborators and service providers. Conversations continued as attendees explored new ideas, partnerships and ways to work together.
"If everyone leaves today having met someone new, we've accomplished exactly what we set out to do. Those relationships are what will drive this ecosystem forward," said Paul Brown, CEO, Avro Precision Laboratories.
Hosted by Avro Precision Laboratories, the event was the first in a series of planned initiatives that will continue connecting businesses across the region and strengthening the partnerships that will help local companies pursue emerging opportunities.
"Strong partnerships are built on transparency, communication and trust. That's the culture we want to foster, and that's exactly what this ecosystem is designed to build," said Rob King, President, Avro Precision Laboratories.
Throughout the afternoon, companies met potential suppliers, customers, collaborators and service providers. Conversations continued as attendees explored new ideas, partnerships and ways to work together.
This is only the beginning. Additional events are already being planned as the Dual-Use Manufacturing Ecosystem continues to grow. More details will be announced in the coming months.
Who was in the room....
Expression of Interest
Organizations wishing to be considered for participation in the Dual-Use Manufacturing Ecosystem are invited to submit an Expression of Interest. Information provided will be reviewed by the coordinating organizations to support the development of a balanced and complementary ecosystem.
Presented by Avro Precision Laboratories, the Dual-Use Manufacturing Ecosystem, Founding Assembly is an invitation-only gathering of manufacturers with dual-use capabilities, industry partners and key stakeholders committed to strengthening Ontario's advanced manufacturing ecosystem.
Building a strong ecosystem starts by knowing who's already in the room.
As Canada's investment in defence and security continues to grow, the ability to move quickly, identify complementary capabilities and develop trusted industry relationships has never been more important. This Founding Assembly is designed to help manufacturers connect, better understand the capabilities that already exist within the sector and begin building an ecosystem that reduces unnecessary duplication, strengthens the supply chain and creates new opportunities for growth.
This is more than a networking event. It is the first step toward building a connected manufacturing ecosystem that enables its participants to respond to future opportunities with greater speed, capability and confidence.
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. 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."
Expression of Interest
Organizations wishing to be considered for participation in the Dual-Use Manufacturing Ecosystem are invited to submit an Expression of Interest. Information provided will be reviewed by the coordinating organizations to support the development of a balanced and complementary ecosystem.
Invitation Process
Participation in the Founding Assembly is by invitation. Invitations are extended to organizations whose capabilities, expertise and strategic fit contribute to the development of a balanced and complementary ecosystem.
The registration deadline is Friday, July 31st 2026 at 2pm.