Canada invests $200M in Nova Scotia spaceport, positioning Atlantic Canada as cornerstone of defence
Sean Fraser, Minister for ACOA makes announcement
From the Springboard Content Lab
Canada is investing $200 million over 10 years to establish a sovereign space launch capability anchored at a new spaceport near Canso, Nova Scotia. Announced by Minister responsible for ACOA, Sean Fraser this investment positions space launch as a core national security priority and strengthens Canada’s ability to launch satellites from domestic soil, reducing reliance on foreign partners.
Operated by Maritime Launch Services, this spaceport will support the operational needs of the Department of National Defence (DND), Canadian Air Force, and the wider Government of Canada, while also offering ad hoc access to allies and partners.
Key takeaways
- $200M investment establishes Canada’s first sovereign space launch capability at Spaceport Nova Scotia
- Atlantic Canada becomes a national hub for defence, aerospace, and dual-use space innovation
- Initial launch capability targeted for 2028, enabling Canadian satellites from Canadian soil
“This investment will create good jobs, support innovation, and grow Atlantic Canada’s role in a fast-growing global industry. It will also help Canada rely less on foreign launch sites and build a stronger, more sovereign role in getting satellites into space.”
– Sean Fraser, Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
Why sovereign space launch matters
Canada’s new investment reflects a major shift in defence and industrial policy: space is now a sovereign capability. The announcement is step forward in Canada’s sovereign space program as outlined in Security, Sovereignty, Prosperity: Canada’s Defence Industrial Strategy.
Until now, Canada has relied heavily on international partners such as the US to launch satellites. This initiative changes that by building domestic launch infrastructure and technology capacity, ensuring:
- Greater national security and autonomy
- More resilient communications, navigation, and surveillance systems
- Expanded access to the fast-growing global space economy
The new spaceport in Nova Scotia will serve as a multi-user facility, supporting defence, government, and allied missions while also enabling commercial launches.
Spaceport is opportunity for Springboard Network
For Springboard Atlantic and its network of 19 universities and colleges, this investment represents a major opportunity to connect research, talent, and industry to Canada’s defence and space priorities.
Springboard institutions are already supporting defence and dual use innovation in Atlantic Canada.
Post-secondary institutions across Atlantic Canada are already active in:
- Aerospace engineering and propulsion systems
- AI, robotics, and autonomous systems
- Satellite communications and data analytics
- Advanced materials and manufacturing
Springboard’s role is critical in:
- Connecting companies to academic expertise
- Accelerating commercialization of dual-use technologies
- Supporting IP development through Springboard’s IP Advantage
- Enabling partnerships between researchers, startups, and defence stakeholders
FAQs
1. What is Canada’s sovereign space launch program?
It’s a federal initiative to enable Canada to launch satellites from its own territory, reducing reliance on foreign launch providers and strengthening national security.
2. Where will Canada’s spaceport be located?
At a multi-user spaceport near Canso, Nova Scotia, operated by Maritime Launch Services.
3. How does this benefit Atlantic Canada
The investment positions Atlantic Canada as a national hub for space and defence innovation, creating jobs, attracting investment, and building regional industrial capacity.
4. How can universities and colleges get involved?
Through partnerships with industry and government—supporting R&D, talent development, and commercialization in areas like aerospace, AI, and advanced manufacturing.
About Springboard
Springboard Atlantic is a network of 19 universities and colleges that promotes the commercialization of research and connects industry with research expertise to solve real-world problems. By supporting applied research collaborations, Springboard helps companies access talent, facilities, and innovative solutions which drivers economic growth across Atlantic Canada.