Funding programs for Aerospace & Defense.
Deep R&D funding for avionics, propulsion systems, materials science, and defense technology innovation.
Aerospace and defense companies are among the highest SR&ED claimants in Canada due to the intensive R&D nature of the sector. IRAP provides substantial project funding, while SCALE AI supports supply chain AI applications. The sector's long development cycles and high technical uncertainty make it ideal for multi-year claim strategies.
Programs to investigate
SR&ED + IRAP
Funding amounts
$1.5M
Key Parameters
Matching Funding Programs
Programs to investigate for Aerospace & Defense projects. Confirm current fit and intake status with each official source.
Potential Cost Areas
Costs that may be considered for Aerospace & Defense projects, subject to the applicable program rules.
Avionics and flight control system development
Advanced materials testing and qualification
Propulsion system research and prototyping
Simulation and digital twin development
Certification testing beyond standard requirements
See what may apply
See which of these programs may fit your Aerospace & Defense company. It takes about 2 minutes and there is no cost to check.
Check funding readinessAerospace & Defense Funding FAQ
Can defense contractors claim SR&ED?
Yes. The R&D work itself is eligible regardless of the end customer. Novel engineering in sensor systems, communications, materials science, and autonomous systems may qualify.
Are certification costs eligible?
Testing that goes beyond standard certification requirements — where the outcome is uncertain and involves systematic investigation — can qualify. Routine compliance testing does not.
Can we use Mitacs for aerospace research?
Yes. Mitacs Accelerate is popular in aerospace for engaging graduate researchers on long-horizon R&D projects at subsidized cost.