MDA Space Launches New Program to Support Canadian Defence Tech Startups
MDA Space, a company based in Brampton, is stepping up to assist Canadian small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) in the space and defence sectors. They recently introduced a new venture funding initiative aimed at helping these companies grow and develop their technologies.
This program, called MDA Space LaunchPad Ventures, focuses on investing in promising tech solutions that can meet the needs of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) and allied militaries. MDA, known for creating the Canadarm, has identified 25 key areas of interest, including satellite technology, autonomous systems, air navigation, and signal-jamming capabilities, all of which align with Canada’s current defence priorities.
MDA CEO Mike Greenley expressed excitement about this initiative, saying, “We aim to boost Canada’s space and defence industries, strengthen our capabilities, and ensure that important technologies are developed right here in Canada.”
MDA originally launched LaunchPad in 2018 as a way for innovative Canadian businesses and research groups to team up with them. With the new LaunchPad Ventures, MDA plans to provide financial support and share its engineering expertise, as well as resources from its new defence branch, 49North, and access to government contracts. However, the company has not disclosed how much funding will be involved in this program.
This initiative comes at a critical time as the Government of Canada is preparing to invest billions of dollars to reduce reliance on the US and to strengthen the domestic defence sector. Many SMBs are eager to participate but face challenges in entering the market. Established firms like MDA and Ottawa-based Calian can help close this gap.
Calian has also launched its own programme called Calian Ventures, which has allocated $100 million CAD to assist companies in testing and selling their defence solutions to the CAF. With the current focus on boosting Canada’s defence capabilities, it’s likely that more programs like these will continue to emerge.
This renewed emphasis on supporting homegrown tech aligns with Canada’s aim to build a strong and independent defence industry.
