Merit: A Legacy of Advocacy and Fairness

MERIT Ontario, initially established in 1990 as the United Independent Contractors’ Group of Ontario, has consistently championed fairness and transparency in construction. The group gathered a diverse mix of contractors to address restrictive public sector tendering practices.

Growth and Evolution

By 2002, reflecting a broader scope, the group rebranded as the OpenShop Contractors Association. This change aimed to encompass the wider concerns of open-shop employers across Ontario. In 2009, it evolved into the Merit OpenShop Contractors Association of Ontario, aligning with Merit Canada to further reinforce its commitment to fair practices in construction.

Foundational Principles

At MERIT, we believe in open and fair competition for construction contracts, managerial autonomy, employee freedom in labor organization membership, and a firm stand against discrimination. These principles serve as our organization’s foundation and will continue for years to come.

Future Goals

Looking forward, MERIT Ontario aims to create a competitive marketplace where all qualified contractors can bid on projects without bias. This involves legislative changes to improve tendering processes and work conditions, promoting a healthier economic environment for the construction industry in Ontario and beyond.

Join Our Mission

Our community values growth, safety, and fairness more than anything. Not only are we building structures, but we’re also building a future for the Ontario construction industry. Our strong advocacy, superior training, and steadfast commitment empower the open-shop construction sector. 

When you join Merit, you’re not just becoming a member but embarking on a journey to build a brighter future for Ontario’s construction industry.