Regional Defence Investment Initiative

Companies in Atlantic Canada that are eyeing defence contracts or dual‑use technology opportunities often face a major hurdle: the cost of scaling, certifying, and positioning themselves within complex defence supply chains. The Regional Defence Investment Initiative is designed to help overcome that barrier by supporting projects that strengthen Canada’s defence and security capabilities while driving regional economic growth. Delivered in Atlantic Canada by the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, the initiative supports organizations in New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and Labrador, and Prince Edward Island that want to play a more active role in domestic and international defence markets.

The program focuses on helping businesses and regional partners build the capacity needed to integrate into defence supply chains. This can include advancing late‑stage research and development, adopting or demonstrating new technologies, expanding manufacturing capacity, or meeting specialized certification requirements tied to military procurement. Support is also available for organizations that strengthen the broader defence innovation ecosystem, such as research centres, accelerators, and industry groups working to improve regional readiness and expertise. Funding support varies by project and may be structured differently depending on the type of applicant and activity.

For Atlantic Canadian businesses exploring defence, security, or dual‑use opportunities, the Regional Defence Investment Initiative can be a meaningful catalyst for growth and market access. Reviewing the full program details can help determine how this initiative could align with your expansion or innovation plans.