Build Canada Homes launches RFI on construction technology

Key Takeaways:

• Build Canada Homes has launched an RFI to engage Canadian firms using modern methods of construction, with the goal of speeding up and scaling the delivery of affordable housing.
• The RFI will help shape future procurement and prequalification processes while creating a public directory to highlight MMC firms’ capabilities, though participation does not guarantee contracts.
• The initiative signals a push toward factory-built and prefabricated housing using Canadian materials, aiming to provide predictable demand for manufacturers and support job creation in the housing sector.

The Whole Story:

Build Canada Homes launched a Request for Information on Wednesday to engage Canadian firms specializing in Modern Methods of Construction (MMC), including modular, panelized, and prefabricated systems. The initiative aims to accelerate the delivery of affordable housing across Canada.

The RFI will gather insights from industry leaders on capabilities, business models, and delivery approaches. Respondents are invited to register as part of a forthcoming public directory of MMC firms to raise awareness of sector capabilities.

Responses will inform the design of Build Canada Homes’ upcoming prequalification process and help identify high-potential MMC firms for future projects and partnerships. Participation does not guarantee future work but provides firms with an opportunity to influence procurement strategies and signal interest in upcoming developments.

“Modern methods of construction can transform how we build homes—making delivery faster, more cost-effective, and more consistent. This RFI is an opportunity for Canadian firms to help shape the future of housing in Canada,” the Honourable Gregor Robertson, Minister of Housing and Infrastructure and Minister responsible for Pacific Economic Development Canada, said in a news release.

Ana Bailão, Chief Executive Officer of Build Canada Homes, added: “Canada needs innovative solutions to meet the urgent demand for affordable housing. Modern methods of construction offer a faster, smarter way to build, and this RFI is about partnering with industry to unlock that potential at scale.”

A wide range of firms are encouraged to respond, including volumetric modular builders, panelized system manufacturers, and design-build firms. The submission deadline is March 5, 2026.

Build Canada Homes, launched Sept. 14, 2025, is Canada’s federal agency mandated to scale up the supply of affordable housing. The agency works in partnership with non-profits, Indigenous organizations, private developers, and all orders of government. Developments supported by Build Canada Homes will prioritize the use of Canadian materials and modern methods of construction such as factory-built housing, generating long-term, predictable demand and providing certainty to manufacturers to scale up production, strengthen supply chains, and create jobs in the housing sector.