Space Technology Development Program Industrial Capability-Building Contribution: STDP AO2

Space Technology Development Program Industrial Capability-Building Contribution: STDP AO2
Announcement of Opportunity
Application deadline:  July 25, 2014

In the newly issued Canada’s Space Policy Framework, the Canadian Government underlines the fact that space yields more commercial opportunities than ever. It is therefore not surprising that “Positioning the Private Sector at the Forefront of Space Activities” has been identified as one of its core principles. The Framework also mentions that the lifeblood of the space industry is innovation, which in turn rests on research and development (R&D). Working with industry, the Government of Canada will encourage opportunities in R&D and innovation by increasing its support for technology development, especially in areas of proven strength such as robotics, optics, satellite communications and space-based radar, as well as in areas of emerging expertise.

It is indeed paramount that the Canadian space industry remain strong, healthy and relevant, and that it have the required readiness to respond to national demand and the necessary competitiveness to secure its fair share of commercial and institutional markets worldwide. Only through innovation and continued investments in R&D can Canada ensure that it has the industrial depth and breadth to remain a valued player in the international arena.

In light of the above, the Canadian Space Agency’s (CSA) Space Technology Development Program (STDP) has posted an Announcement of Opportunity (AO) ( http://www.asc-csa.gc.ca/eng/ao/2014-stdp-ao2.asp ) which will award non-repayable contributions to support the development of industrial capabilities, which include developing novel concepts, products and/or know-how through basic R&D.

The total funding available under this AO is $10M; $8M allocated for Category A projects and $2M for Category B projects. The two categories of funding are:

• Category A covers proposals for which the CSA’s contribution will not exceed $600,000 (over a term of up to 24 months in duration).
• Category B covers proposals for which the CSA’s contribution will not exceed $200,000 (over a term of up to 24 months in duration).