Earlier this week, on behalf of the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions, Canadian Space Agency (CSA) President Lisa Campbell announced that the Government of Canada will invest a total of €407.71 million (representing approximately CAD$664.6 million) in European Space Agency (ESA) programs. This figure includes the CAD$528 million previously announced.
This historic investment, the largest since Canada first partnered with ESA in 1979, will advance research and development of Canadian-made space technologies for both civilian and defence purposes. It is expected to generate hundreds of jobs and a significant economic return in Canada, where every dollar awarded to Canadian companies through ESA contracts generates over three dollars in follow-on sales. It will grow and diversify Canada's vibrant space sector, helping Canada to continue meeting its commercial, defence and security needs, and exporting these capabilities around the world.
This new funding is being directed to ESA programs in areas of strategic importance like Satellite Communications, Earth Observation, Space Exploration, Space Safety, Navigation and Technology Development. These programs were selected after consultation with the Canadian space sector.
By strengthening Canada's collaboration with ESA, Canadian businesses will be positioned to work with leading European partners and compete for high-value contracts on the European space market. With this historic investment, Canada reinforces its commitment to innovation and secures its place in shaping the future of space.
