Backgrounder: PacifiCan invests in defence innovation and capacity building in B.C. to strengthen Canada’s security

Today, the Honourable Gregor Robertson, Minister of Housing and Infrastructure and Minister responsible for Pacific Economic Development Canada, announced an investment of over $46.6 million for eight B.C. projects that accelerate defence innovation and help local businesses grow and integrate into domestic and international defence supply chains. These projects are part of Canada’s first Defence Industrial Strategy and represent foundational investments in B.C.’s defence capabilities.

The projects announced today are:

University of British Columbia

$7,137,482
Develop a handheld automated system designed to rapidly detect pathogens and monitor health during critical situations, such as defence operations and fieldwork. This dual-use innovation will help strengthen Canada's capacity to respond to potential health risks, both at home and abroad.

$4,750,000
Upgrade equipment at the Quantum Matter Institute to help small- and medium-sized businesses build next-generation computer chips, sensors and advanced materials right here in B.C. This will strengthen Canada’s position as a global leader in quantum computing and the secure communications capabilities our military requires.

$8,758,918
Establish the Asymmetric Last Line (ALL) research accelerator to accelerate the design, manufacturing, testing, and deployment of new defence and dual-use technologies. ALL will focus on power systems, aerospace materials and structures, computing and AI, marine technologies for harsh environments, sensors and instrumentation, and attritable defence assets. This will help B.C. innovators bring advanced defence and security solutions to Canada and its Allies faster.

UBC-Sauder Creative Destruction Lab – Vancouver

$1,579,809
Help defence technology companies in B.C. scale-up, grow and access defence and dual-use supply chains through defence procurement training, targeted mentorship opportunities, direct engagement with defence prime contractors, and on-site support at key industry events This will help drive business growth, create new market opportunities, and position B.C. companies for success in global defence industries.

Simon Fraser University

$10,187,349
Design, deploy and operate the Vancouver Quantum Network – a cutting-edge testbed that connects research, industry, and government partners across Metro Vancouver through quantum-secure communications. This will help build domestic expertise to protect Canada’s critical infrastructure from cyber threats.

$9,770,262
Establish a secure, high-performing computing network to train AI models and process sensitive data for both defence and civilian uses. This will help accelerate AI-driven innovation for national security and position Canada to scale essential defence technologies.

Alacrity

$2,621,746
Help B.C. businesses enter defence and dual-use supply chains while also accelerating the commercialization of new technologies and expanding access to export markets through targeted outreach and readiness assessments, hands-on defence procurement training, tailored advisory and strategic matchmaking, and participation in defence events and demo days. This will help strengthen Canada’s domestic defence sector, create well-paying jobs and position local companies to compete globally in key technology industries.

Association of British Columbia Marine Industries

$1,866,864
Strengthen B.C.'s marine and defence sectors by supporting the commercialization of new technologies, expanding exports, supporting Indigenous businesses, training workers, and connecting suppliers through events and trade shows. This investment will help build a stronger domestic defence ecosystem, and position B.C. as a global leader in marine and defence industries.

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• News release: PacifiCan invests in defence innovation and capacity building in B.C. to strengthen Canada’s security