The National Research Council of Canada (NRC), and the United Kingdom-based Compound Semiconductor Applications (CSA) Catapult and Quebec-based MiQro Innovation Collaborative Centre (C2MI), have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to deepen connections and grow a strong and resilient semiconductor supply chain for Canada, the UK, and other G7 countries.
Semiconductors power military defence equipment, radar detection systems, high-performance computing, telecommunications, satellites, sensing and more. They are also essential for building AI data centres in Canada that are more energy efficient while ensuring sensitive and private information remains in Canada.
The MOU will align each partner’s capabilities in designing, fabricating and packaging semiconductors over the next three years.
“As Canada continues to strengthen ties with reliable partners, we are proud to partner with CSA Catapult and C2MI to strengthen the semiconductor industry both in Canada and the United Kingdom,” The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions said in a press release. “This international collaboration is the first of many to ensure we build a strong Canadian economy.”
The collaboration will create a strong value chain between Canada and the United Kingdom and set the stage for technological leadership, ensuring a smooth path from development to production.
“This partnership is a vital step toward building a strong and resilient semiconductor supply chain for Canada and our G7 partners,” The Honourable Evan Solomon, Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario stated in a press release. “Semiconductors are the backbone of our digital future, powering everything from AI data centres to defence systems. They are essential for building AI data centres in Canada that are more energy efficient while ensuring sensitive and private information remains in Canada. This partnership will accelerate innovation, secure sensitive data within our borders, and position Canada as a global leader in advanced technology. Together, we are laying the foundation for the next generation of cutting-edge digital infrastructure.”