Laser Protection Moves from Lab into Real-World Applications
News release
MTI’s first commercial product will improve safety on the ground and in the air
May 4, 2018 – Dartmouth, NS – Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
Support for innovation and commercialization helps build world-class companies with unique technologies that create jobs and contribute to economic prosperity in Atlantic Canada. That is why the Government of Canada is investing $3,000,000 in Metamaterial Technologies Inc. (MTI) to help the Dartmouth-based smart materials company begin advanced manufacturing of its first commercial product, metaAIR eyewear. The protective eyewear uses MTI’s award-winning optical filter to shield pilots, law enforcement and military personnel from the growing threat of harmful, potentially disabling laser strikes.
The funding was announced today by Darren Fisher, Member of Parliament for Dartmouth-Cole Harbour, on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA). The repayable contribution is being made through ACOA’s Business Development Program, which helps small and medium-sized enterprises bring new products to market.
MTI will use the assistance to increase manufacturing capacity for metaAIR eyewear to meet market demand. The product-based revenue stream will position MTI for further growth, notably for its metaAIR windscreen filter, which is moving toward certification for installation on cockpit windscreens of commercial airliners.
The project will maintain 27 jobs and create more than 15 new full-time positions to support production, marketing, sales, and research and development (R&D) over the next three years.
This investment builds on commitments made by the Government of Canada and the four Atlantic Provinces to drive economic growth in the region through the Atlantic Growth Strategy, which supports strategic investments in initiatives that build on the region’s competitive advantages, such as its strong export potential, growing innovation network, and skilled workforce.
Quotes
“We are in a global innovation race. Countries are making investments in science and innovation because it attracts the best talent and creates well-paying jobs. Investing in Metamaterial Technologies Inc., a pioneer in the advanced materials and nanotechnology industries, will help this Canadian company build on its global leadership position and create high-quality jobs that improve the standard of living here at home.”
- The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA
“For businesses to grow and create good, well-paying jobs, they need the ability to turn their new ideas into products that can compete in the global marketplace. MTI is already known worldwide for its expertise in the ability to block, enhance and absorb light. Together with its strong multinational partners, MTI is well-placed to compete in a rapidly evolving global marketplace.”
- Darren Fisher, Member of Parliament for Dartmouth-Cole Harbour
“Metamaterials are a relatively new scientific field and the work we are doing in laser protection has never been done before. These are exciting times for science and this funding will help us as we move to the next stage of growth, allowing us to advance our manufacturing capacity to produce these new smart material products.”
- Dr. George Palikaras, Founder and CEO, Metamaterial Technologies Inc.
Quick facts
-
MTI has partnered with Airbus to co-develop and commercialize metaAIR for aviation.
-
MTI was recently honoured in the category of Commercial Best New Product for metaAIR at the 61st Annual Laureate Awards in Washington, D.C.
-
This project will help leverage an additional $3 million in private sector investment.
-
MTI’s Canadian workforce includes global talent representing 15 countries and speaking more than 20 different languages.
Related products
Contacts
Alex Smith
Director of Communications and Outreach
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
Phone: 902-426-9417 / 902-830-3839 (cell)
E-mail: alex.smith@canada.ca
Cindy Roberts
Vice President, Marketing and Communications
Metamaterial Technologies Inc.
Phone: 902-222-3658
E-mail: cindy.roberts@metamaterial.com