Kitchener's Pravala Networks to receive $9.7M for vehicle internet tech

Pravala Networks in Kitchener will receive $9.7 million to develop a platform that would provide uninterrupted internet connectivity in vehicles.

The $9.7 million will come from the federal government's automotive supplier innovation program, which has earmarked $19.6 million for seven new projects.

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The projects "demonstrate how Canada's innovative automotive suppliers are developing the green technologies that will shape the cars of the future," Bains said.

Pravala creates connection management platform software that provide secure and reliable wireless for vehicles and mobile devices.

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Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic DevelopmentNavdeepBainswas joined by Waterloo MP and Minister of Small Business and Tourism Bardish Chaggerat theKitcheneroffices ofPravalaon Wednesday to make the announcement.

While the funding is good news for the company, Kitchener-Conestoga MP Harold Albrechtsaid funding announcements like thisshould be tied to jobs and economic growth.

"While we support the project, unfortunately the minister confirmed today that this funding won't help create a single job," Albrecht said in a statement sent to CBC News.

"What's worse, the Liberal government plans to raise taxes on auto supply chain businesses to pay for the governments out-of-control spending."

Albrecht said the privatesector won't invest in the local economy if the Liberal governmentmakes it more expensive to run a company here.