The Aerospace Accelerator Program (AAP) is designed for early-stage startups with technology-driven solutions that address challenges within the aerospace sector. This initiative provides a comprehensive support system to help launch new solutions into the market. The program is funded by Calgary Economic Development’s Opportunity Calgary Investment Fund and Prairies Economic Development Canada, with support from inaugural industry partners including WestJet, the Calgary Airport Authority, and Chapter AI Ventures. It combines funding with technology development resources, professional development training, and expert guidance to foster growth.
Program Overview
• Start Date: January 2027
• Funding: Up to $200,000
• Duration: 2 years
• Time Commitment: Full time
• Location: Calgary
Key Offerings
• Grant Funding: Access up to $200,000 in grant funding, which includes salary support for one founder.
• Expert Support: Receive individualized support from industry experts.
• Curriculum: Participate in a robust curriculum focused on sharpening business skills and the ability to effectively run a startup.
• Facilities: Gain access to the Aerospace Innovation Hub (AIH).
Eligibility Criteria
• Founder Eligibility: The founder must have the legal right to work in Canada for the program's duration, be committed as a full-time founding executive owning at least 25% or a simple majority of shares, and possess advanced technical expertise in an aerospace-related field.
• Startup Eligibility: The startup must have a tangible plan for a commercially viable product, have been incorporated in Alberta or nationally less than two years ago, or have not raised more than $500,000 in dilutive funding. The founder is required to reside in Calgary and maintain a company presence at the Aerospace Innovation Hub throughout the program.
Program Expectations
• Company Development: Companies will work with Innovate Calgary coaches and expert advisors to strategize, refine objectives, manage resources, and execute plans for raising capital and expanding intellectual property assets.
• Milestone Accountability: Participating companies are accountable to milestones established in collaboration with their coaches.
• Full-Time Commitment: A full-time commitment to startup activities is required to meet program expectations and milestones.
• Mandatory Attendance: Funded founders are expected to attend in-person workshops and events, with most sessions scheduled during the first week of each month throughout the program's first year.
Application and Selection Timeline
• Recruitment: Applicants must complete an online application form by 11:59 pm on September 30, 2026.
• Initial Review: In October 2026, Innovate Calgary will review applications and conduct initial due diligence.
• Panel Presentations: Shortlisted applicants will be invited to present to an external review panel in early November 2026.
• Final Interviews: The final round of interviews will be completed in late November 2026, after which applicants will be selected.
• Offers: Successful applicants will receive offers in December 2026.
• Onboarding: Founders will complete agreements and officially start the program in January 2027.
This program offers a unique opportunity for aerospace innovators to accelerate their ventures. Interested parties can find application details and register for an online information session through the official program channels.