LONDON, Ont.—The federal government says it is investing $13.7-million in a new advanced manufacturing research centre at Western University.

Provided through the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern ontario (FedDev Ontario), the non-repayable funding will go towards the institutions new Fraunhofer Project Centre and a centre for commercialization of advanced manufacturing technology, which will focus on innovations such as lightweighting materials.

By supporting the advanced materials manufacturing market, our government is not only helping to create high-quality jobs, but we are also positioning this region to be a leader in the increasingly important field of lightweight construction, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development Canada Diane Finley said in a statement.

According to FedEv Ontario, the Fraunhofer Project Centre will offer a real-world manufacturing setting and complete production equipment.

The centre for commercialization of advanced manufacturing technology will offer small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) industrial research space, business services and access to research staff.

Funding from Western University, the City of London, the Government of ontario and the private sector, as well as the announced FedDev ontario funding, are going towards the two centres at the universitys Advanced Manufacturing Park that focus on the composite materials industry.

Both Centres will create opportunities for businesses to develop and test innovative composite lightweight products, systems and materials for the automotive, aerospace, defence, construction, medical devices and renewable energy sectors.