BDC joins forces with CDL, invests in dual-use tech

BDC has announced two investments in Canadian dual-use innovators, following the launch of its Defence Platform in December:

• Irréversible (QC) – A semiconductor startup developing AI chips for next-generation computing. BDC participated in Irréversible’s pre-seed round, led by Quantacet with participation from Frostbite Capital and Tofino Capital. The company has already secured a $1M IDEaS grant from the Department of National Defence. 
• Canada Rocket Company (ON) – A space-tech venture building rockets to deploy satellites into orbit. BDC co-led a $6.2M CAD seed round with Garage Capital, joined by four other investors. 

“BDC is deepening its support for Canada’s defence sector at a pivotal time. As needs evolve, we’re moving quickly – investing in innovators like Irréversible and Canadian Rocket Company and partnering with CDL’s Defence Stream. Our goal is clear: help Canadian companies scale, commercialize faster, and seize new opportunities in defence, security, and critical industries and technologies. We’re bringing the expertise, networks, and capital needed to strengthen Canada’s resilience and national security,”

Isabelle Hudon, President and CEO of BDC

BDC partners with Creative Destruction Lab

BDC is also joining forces with Creative Destruction Lab (CDL) to accelerate defence innovation, becoming the first partner of CDL’s global Defence program.

The CDL Defence program is designed for early-stage companies developing dual-use technologies that directly address operational needs in defence, national security, and critical infrastructure protection.

Partnerships like this are essential to translating deep science into global impact. By working with BDC, the CDL Defence program is strengthening the environment in which entrepreneurs can build and scale technologies that matter. Our focus is on mobilizing a growing community of mentors, scientists, and alumni to support founders advancing dual-use technologies as they navigate the path from research to deployment.”

 Sonia Sennik, CEO of Creative Destruction Lab

Its purpose is to connect early-stage ventures with mentors, investors, and procurement experts to accelerate commercialization. It is run in partnership with 6 CDL sites across Canada and Europe, with additional partners to follow. The inaugural program year will conclude in May 2026, with applications for the next cohort opening in April 2026.

This association is built on the long-standing relationships between BDC and CDL and reflects BDC’s commitment to supporting Canadian innovation and entrepreneurs. In addition to the Defence Stream, BDC will also collaborate with CDL’s Climate and Critical Minerals streams, reinforcing its role in advancing technologies important to Canada’s future.

Through these initiatives, BDC continues to champion Canadian entrepreneurs driving innovation in defence, climate, and critical minerals—key sectors for Canada’s economic resilience and security.