PrairiesCan — Regional Defence Investment Initiative (RDII) in the Prairie provinces — Not-for-profit

Organizations across the Prairie provinces that support innovation in defence and advanced technologies may find a strong opportunity through the PrairiesCan Regional Defence Investment Initiative (RDII). Designed to strengthen Canada’s defence industrial base, this initiative helps not-for-profit organizations play a more active role in building regional capacity, supporting small and medium-sized enterprises, and connecting Prairie-based innovation to military and defence supply chains. It is especially relevant for groups working in aerospace, defence, information technology, and emerging dual‑use technologies with both civilian and military applications.

Through RDII, Prairies Economic Development Canada provides non-repayable funding to not-for-profit organizations to support projects that focus on technology adoption, capacity building, productivity improvements, and commercialization activities aligned with defence priorities. Funding can cover a significant portion of eligible project costs, with the expectation that organizations also bring in some complementary funding from other sources. Projects are typically multi-year and must clearly demonstrate how they contribute to military needs, defence readiness, or the broader defence ecosystem, while also delivering regional economic benefits across the Prairies.

This program is well suited to industry associations, accelerators, research organizations, and other not-for-profits that help businesses prepare for defence markets, obtain certifications, or showcase technologies with military relevance. For organizations considering how to position their initiatives within Canada’s defence priorities, exploring the full details of RDII can help determine whether this funding aligns with their mission and project plans.