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The Accelerator Centre (AC) has announced the launch of its groundbreaking Aerospace Accelerator program, in collaboration with the Region of Waterloo and Navblue.
This innovative initiative aims to foster the growth and development of cutting-edge aerospace technologies while contributing to the economic and technological advancement of the Waterloo Region.
The Aerospace Accelerator will run out of the AC’s headquarters in Waterloo and be delivered through a combination of remote and in-person education, mentorship, and networking opportunities.
The program will serve as a dynamic hub for start-ups, entrepreneurs, and established companies in the aerospace sector. The program provides access to potential test facilities, mentorship, networking opportunities, and access to the investment community to accelerate the development of advanced aerospace solutions that align with the Region of Waterloo’s aviation and aerospace priorities.
Waterloo Region’s strong aviation and aerospace ecosystem is built on a reputation for top talent, exceptional research capacity, and a legacy of manufacturing and tech innovation.
The Region is home to a full-service airport (CYKF) and is strategically located next to one of Canada’s largest aerospace clusters. With 100-plus companies working in materials testing and development, component and aircraft manufacturing and software and sensor technology, Waterloo Region is a leader in aviation and aerospace.
Navblue, which is wholly owned by Airbus, is dedicated to flight operations solutions and services for airlines and aircraft operators, on the ground and onboard.
Navblue combines aircraft manufacturer expertise, flight operations know-how, and agile development to enhance operational efficiency, optimize resources, and increase productivity — for a safe and sustainable aviation. Entrepreneurs participating in the Aerospace Accelerator will benefit from Navblue’s extensive industry expertise and global network of over 600 customers and 500 employees.
Applications for the program opened on Feb. 1, 2024, and will remain open until Feb. 22, 2024.
In March, the top 10 companies will begin working with the AC and the Region to accelerate their growth. From cutting-edge propulsion systems to game-changing materials, the sky’s the limit.
For more information on the program and eligibility requirements, visit the program page.
“We are thrilled to announce the launch of our Aerospace Accelerator in collaboration with the Region of Waterloo and Navblue,” said Jay Krishnan, AC CEO.
“This initiative underscores our commitment to making Waterloo Region one of the top three startup destinations in the world. By expanding our long-term partnership with the Region and building new collaborative avenues with industry leaders like Navblue, we aim to drive further innovation and create a lasting impact on the future of aviation and aerospace technology.”
“Local partnerships, innovation, aerospace, and our international airport (YKF) are cornerstones for our future economic growth,” said Karen Redman, chair of the Regional Municipality of Waterloo.
“We are fortunate to be home to many world-class aviation and aerospace companies like Navblue and are excited to partner with them and the Accelerator Centre to grow Waterloo Region’s aviation and aerospace cluster.”
“We are thrilled to be partnering with the Accelerator Centre (AC) and the Region of Waterloo on this Aerospace Accelerator Program,” said Marc Lemeilleur, CEO of Navblue.
“Bringing new technologies to market in the aviation industry is complex. Working with AC allows us to combine Navblue’s flight operations expertise and Airbus’ design and manufacturing knowledge to provide mentorship and support the development of new technologies.”
This press release was prepared and distributed by the Accelerator Centre.
