British Columbia has more than 200 companies operating in the aerospace sector, one of the largest concentrations in Canada. The Aerospace, Defence and Security Expo (ADSE) provides an opportunity for industry stakeholders to network and reap benefits from opportunities in both domestic and international markets every year.
On August 3, Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of International Development and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada (PacifiCan), addressed attendees at an Aerospace Defense Symposium luncheon where he announced over $7.5 million under the Aerospace Regional Recovery Initiative (ARRI) for three B.C.-based organizations: Avcorp Industries, Inc., the University of Victoria, and Chinook Helicopters, Inc. This funding will help these organizations innovate, commercialize technologies, and improve global competitiveness while creating 110 jobs in B.C.’s aerospace sector.
During a speech at the event, Minister Sajjan reaffirmed his support for ADSE. He also stressed the importance that Canada’s aerospace and defense sectors play in British Columbia’s economy. PacifiCan provides funding to AIAC to deliver ADSE and support the western Canadian aerospace and defense industries at home and abroad.
“PacifiCan is committed to building an inclusive and dynamic economy that ensures that all areas receive the support they need to prosper. My agency has long been a committed advocate of a thriving B.C. aerospace sector and we will continue to work with this industry to promote growth, innovation, and an increased presence on the competitive global stage,” said Minister Sajjan.
A federal agency that supports the aerospace industry in British Columbia, PacifiCan partners with local stakeholders to leverage economic opportunities associated with federal defence procurements that fall under the Government of Canada’s Industrial and Technological Benefits (ITBs) policy.
“Canada’s aerospace sector remains the most innovative industry and a key driver of our nation’s economy providing nearly 200,000 jobs in every region of Canada,” addedMike Mueller, President and CEO, Aerospace Industries Association of Canada. “These projects, and the support of the Government of Canada, will ensure our aerospace industry continues to contribute to the economic recovery from the COVID19 pandemic. We look forward to continued collaboration as we set a course for a long-term vision and plan for decades to come.”
Projects being funded currently include:
Organization: Chinook Helicopters (1982), Inc.
Project description: Develop and commercialize a Virtual Reality Training and Simulation system
Funding: $1,171,800
Organization: Avcorp Industries Inc.
Project description: Adopt digital technologies to create efficiencies and enhance productivity
Funding: $4,862,250
Organization: University of Victoria
Project description: Develop Hybrid Electric Propulsion Systems
Funding: $1,500,000
Total funding: $7,534,050