Supporting Canadian Research and Innovation in Space Technology

Leveraging scientific and high-tech expertise while supporting jobs and growth

CAMBRIDGE, ON, May 29, 2015 /CNW/ - The Honourable Gary Goodyear, Minister of State (Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario), is pleased to announce that 21 high-tech companies received research and development (R&D) funding via the Canadian Space Agency's (CSA) Space Technology Development Program (STDP).

The wide range of innovative projects to be developed by emerging companies as well as large established space industry leaders demonstrates how space technology drives jobs and growth in Canada's dynamic economy.

Minister of State Goodyear made the announcement at COM DEV International Ltd.'s Cambridge, Ontario facility. COM DEV is receiving funding to complete seven projects, including new operating systems for COM DEV products, advanced photo detection and image processing technologies, including work with aluminum additive technologies. 

By leveraging R&D activities and increasing innovative products for commercialization in the space sector, the STDP supports two core principles of Canada's Space Policy Framework: "Positioning the Private Sector at the Forefront of Space Activities" and "Excellence in Key Capabilities."  The Framework is the government's approach to Canada's future in space to ensure continued commitment to exploration, commercialization and development.

Quick facts

• In 2012, the Canadian space sector generated total revenues of $3.327 billion for our economy and employed some 8,000 highly skilled men and women.
• The CSA's STDP is contributing to the development of industry capabilities by investing in new space technologies, further enhancing Canadian expertise and talent and ensuring the industry's responsiveness to future market demands while maintaining its global competitiveness.
• Previous STDP investments have been instrumental in positioning Canada's innovative space sector as a leader in satellite communications, space robotics, optics, and space based radar.
• The program selected 38 proposals from across Canada.  The total funding for all projects is close to $13.1 million;
• 18 projects will receive funding of $600,000 or less for a term of 24 months;
• 20 projects will receive funding of $200,000 or less for a term of 24 months;
• Each company is also contributing a minimum of 25% of the total value of its project.

Quote
"Space is an integral part of our government's overarching strategic goals of jobs and growth, sovereignty, security and the advancement of knowledge.  Our Government is proud to invest in the design and development of innovative technologies to maintain our position as a global leader in space technologies. This investment supports and takes full advantage of the capabilities of Canada's space sector, contributing to our future in space."

- The Honourable Gary Goodyear, Minister of State (Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario

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SOURCE Canadian Space Agency

For further information: Canadian Space Agency, Media Relations Office, Telephone: [phone], Website: http://asc-csa.gc.ca, Twitter: @csa_asc, Follow us on Social Media!

Related Links

http://www.space.gc.ca