Question Period Note: Regional Defence Investment Initiative

Regional Defence Investment Initiative

• The Regional Defence Investment Initiative supports Canada’s defence and security needs while strengthening regional economic development.

• Through this initiative, FedDev Ontario is investing nearly $200 million in support for the defence sector.

• Southern Ontario is a powerhouse for defence-related manufacturing and innovation – with an ecosystem of innovative dual-use companies ready to deliver advanced technologies and expertise needed to strengthen Canada’s defence industrial base and enhance national security.

• Through these investments, we are unlocking new opportunities for Canadian businesses to integrate into domestic and international defence supply chains, scale their technologies, and strengthen Canada’s national security.

• The Regional Defence Investment Initiative (RDII) is a $357.7-million initiative, delivered by Canada’s regional development agencies, to support Canada’s defence and security needs while strengthening regional economic development.

• FedDev Ontario’s allocation through this national initiative is more than $90 million. Understanding the critical importance of the defence sector in the region, FedDev Ontario is allocating an additional $106 million from existing resources, for a total nearly $200 million in support available through the RDII.

• Through RDII, FedDev Ontario will invest in targeted activities that support businesses and organizations seeking to enter or grow within domestic and international defence supply chains, while increasing their industrial and innovation capacity. This includes investment in businesses whose products are dual-use, or who seek to pivot their activities to supply the defence sector.

• FedDev Ontario is currently accepting applications.

• In addition to project funding, through its Defence Concierge Service, FedDev Ontario is helping SMEs seeking to expand, pivot, adapt or scale technologies or products in navigating defence sector processes. Assistance is also provided to help defence contractors seeking suppliers and research collaborations understand what industrial, innovative and research capabilities are found in southern Ontario.

• To further support the defence sector, FedDev Ontario has also launched the Defence Concierge Service, a one-stop shop for businesses that helps them navigate defence-related opportunities and connects them with the information, services and funding needed to scale their company.