If you run an aerospace business in British Columbia, the Aerospace Regional Recovery Initiative (ARRI) was a key federal funding program designed to help the sector recover from COVID‑19 and modernize for long‑term growth. Delivered in B.C. by Pacific Economic Development Canada (PacifiCan), ARRI supported projects focused on green transition, digital adoption, and competitiveness. The program is no longer accepting new applications. However, understanding how it worked can help you prepare for new aerospace funding programs that continue to launch at both federal and provincial levels.
The Aerospace Regional Recovery Initiative was a $250 million federal initiative delivered over three years, ending March 31, 2024, through Canada’s regional development agencies. In British Columbia, PacifiCan administered the program for eligible aerospace organizations.
ARRI was designed to help the Canadian aerospace sector:
Although some federal listings may still show the program as “open,” ARRI funding is now fully committed and no longer accepting new applications in British Columbia.
ARRI eligibility focused on organizations with a clear connection to the aerospace sector in B.C. Eligible applicants included:
Projects had to show regional economic benefits for British Columbia and align with Canada’s long‑term aerospace strategy.
ARRI did not use a single flat funding amount. Contribution levels depended on the applicant type and project scope:
Funding amounts were assessed case by case, based on project impact, financial need, and alignment with ARRI objectives.
For a deeper breakdown of how repayable and non‑repayable funding works, see Repayable vs Non-Repayable Business Funding in Canada.
Eligible costs were tied directly to recovery and modernization activities. Common eligible expenses included:
ARRI generally did not cover day‑to‑day operating expenses unrelated to the approved project.
When ARRI was open in British Columbia, the application process followed these steps:
Initial discussion with PacifiCan
Businesses were encouraged to speak with a PacifiCan officer before applying.
Formal application submission
Applicants submitted a detailed project proposal, budget, and financial statements.
Assessment and due diligence
PacifiCan evaluated economic impact, feasibility, and alignment with ARRI goals.
Contribution agreement
Approved applicants signed an agreement outlining funding terms and repayment conditions, if applicable.
Tools like GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you filter similar aerospace and clean‑tech programs by province and industry in seconds.
Assuming ARRI is still accepting applications
Funding under this initiative is fully committed. New projects must look to successor programs.
Applying with an operations‑only project
ARRI focused on transformation, not routine operating costs.
Underestimating reporting requirements
Contribution agreements required progress reports and financial tracking.
Not clarifying repayable terms upfront
Many SME contributions had repayment obligations that affected cash flow planning.
With ARRI now closed, similar funding opportunities continue to emerge for B.C. aerospace companies. New federal and provincial programs focus on clean technology, digital adoption, and supply chain improvements. Aerospace businesses that invest in modernization and sustainability are well-positioned for future support. Staying informed about these programs can give your business an advantage when new funding rounds open.
Q: Is the Aerospace Regional Recovery Initiative still open in British Columbia?
No. ARRI funding ended on March 31, 2024, and no new applications are being accepted in B.C..
Q: Was ARRI funding repayable?
For most aerospace SMEs, contributions were repayable. Not‑for‑profit organizations generally received non‑repayable funding.
Q: Could costs be claimed retroactively under ARRI?
In limited cases, certain costs incurred after a defined eligibility date could be considered, but only if approved by PacifiCan.
Q: Did Indigenous aerospace businesses receive different funding terms?
Yes. Indigenous‑owned businesses and organizations could qualify for enhanced funding, including coverage of up to 100% of eligible costs.
Q: What should B.C. aerospace companies look at now instead of ARRI?
Federal clean technology, innovation, and aerospace supply‑chain programs continue to launch. Many share similar goals around green transition and digital adoption.
GrantHub tracks hundreds of active grant programs across Canada — check which current aerospace and advanced manufacturing programs match your business profile.
While the Aerospace Regional Recovery Initiative in British Columbia has closed, its priorities still shape today’s funding programs. Aerospace businesses that invest in clean technology, digital tools, and productivity remain strong candidates for federal and provincial support. GrantHub helps you stay current as new aerospace and manufacturing grants open, so you can act early and apply with confidence.
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