Grants and Contributions:

A prototype reusable semi-cryogenic turbopump for in-space and launch vehicle propulsion capacity building

25STDPY20

$350,000.00

Aug 29, 2025 - Dec 31, 2027

With the announcement by the Canadian Government in 2023 that it is moving forward to enable space launches from Canadian soil, Canada is poised to expand its capabilities into launch and large-scale rocket propulsion. Enabling this will require expertise in the most complex, challenging aspect of rocket propulsion: the turbopump. The “heart” of any high performance rocket engine, these powerful pumps represent a capability that has never before been demonstrated in Canada. With a network of partners and industry professionals, a team of experienced volunteers, and supplemented by top students from across Canada, this project will demonstrate the first turbopump in Canada, sized for Launch Canada’s proven 1000 lb thrust rocket engine. Leveraging advanced manufacturing methods and cutting-edge software tools, it will also be the smallest turbopump in the world, extending the performance benefits of turbopumps to new applications such as lunar transport or space tugs, while training highly qualified personnel throughout the supply chain.

Canadian Space Agency

The Research component of the program provides financial support to organizations to conduct space related research and development in priority areas. It will support targeted knowledge development and innovation to sustain and enhance the Canadian capacity to use space to address national needs and priorities in the future.

Mississauga, Ontario, CA L4T 3E1

003-2025-2026-Q2-00033

Contribution

Grants and Contributions

For-profit organization

Launch Canada Rocketry Association

STDP AO 9.2 Space R&D – Small Businesses

Canada's Innovation and Skills Plan is focused on three priority areas to spur innovation: People, Technologies, and Companies. Working with industry, the Government of Canada will encourage innovation by increasing its support for basic research and development (R&D) in space technology development. The Canadian Space Agency (CSA) is issuing this Announcement of Opportunity (AO) to support the development of Canadian industrial capabilities in the area of space technologies with the aim of increasing the commercial potential of Canadian space companies to capture global opportunities.

It is paramount that the Canadian space industry remains strong, healthy and relevant, and that it has the required readiness to respond to national demand and the necessary competitiveness to secure an increased share of commercial and institutional markets worldwide. Only through innovation and continued investments in R&D can Canada ensure that it has the industrial depth and breadth to remain a valued player in the international arena.

In light of the above, this AO concerning Space R&D - Small Businesses will award non-repayable contributions up to $350,000 per space technology project and limited to small companies (up to a maximum or 50 employees).