ACOA — Regional Defence Investment Initiative in Atlantic Canada

Atlantic Canada businesses looking to break into defence and security supply chains face high upfront costs, from meeting certification standards to scaling production for military or dual‑use applications. The ACOA Regional Defence Investment Initiative in Atlantic Canada is designed to help close that gap by supporting projects that strengthen defence readiness while building long‑term regional economic capacity. Delivered by the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency as part of a broader national initiative, this program focuses on helping organizations position themselves for domestic and international defence opportunities.

The initiative supports a wide range of defence‑related activities, including late‑stage research and development, technology demonstration, productivity improvements, facility modernization, and market expansion tied to defence procurement. It also places strong emphasis on building regional innovation ecosystems, such as research centres, testing facilities, and advisory supports that help businesses integrate into defence supply chains. Funding can cover a significant share of eligible project costs, making it especially relevant for small and medium‑sized enterprises, not‑for‑profit organizations, and Indigenous entities pursuing complex or capital‑intensive projects.

Projects that strengthen Canada’s defence industrial capacity, align with military or allied needs, and generate measurable economic benefits in Atlantic Canada are a strong fit. For organizations considering defence or dual‑use markets but unsure where to start, learning more about how this initiative is applied in practice can clarify whether it aligns with your growth plans.