Canadian companies will develop the next generation of aircraft technologies, while creating the well-paying middle-class jobs of the future, as a result of an investment of up to $54 million by the Government of Canada. The funding is being shared by a consortium of 15 companies and academic institutions from across the country. The consortium is led by Bombardier.
The funding, under the Technology Demonstration Program, was announced today by Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Stéphane Dion, Minister of Foreign Affairs.
The Government of Canada's Innovation Agenda aims to make the country a global centre for innovation-one that creates jobs, drives growth across all industries and improves the lives of all Canadians.
“The consortium will develop state-of-the-art electric systems and advanced aerodynamic systems that will make aircraft of the future more energy efficient, reliable and quieter. The innovations in aerospace design and engineering that result from this industry-led collaboration will strengthen the skills and knowledge of Canadians working in the aerospace sector. It will also lead to new advanced-manufacturing platforms that position them for the jobs of tomorrow,” according to the official release.
"Bombardier and the other members of Project Horizon across Canada are pleased that their collaborative project was selected by Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada,” said Fassi Kafyeke, Senior director, Strategic technologies and Innovation, Product Development Engineering, Aerospace, Bombardier. “Developing technology that makes a real difference for the customer takes time and effort and is best accomplished through the collaboration between partners in the industry, research centers and universities. Project Horizon will allow its members to progress and demonstrate advanced technologies and systems for the next generation of aircraft.