Regional Defence Investment Initiative (RDII)

Atlantic Canada: Strengthening Canada's Defence Advantage

Powering Atlantic innovation in defence and security

About the RDII

• $379.2 million initiative delivered by Canada’s regional development agencies (RDAs)
• $38.2 million delivered by ACOA in Atlantic Canada over three years<éli>
• Supports Canada’s defence and security priorities while boosting regional innovation and growth

Who can apply

• Businesses (mainly SMEs) in or entering defence supply chains
• Non-profit organizations supporting defence-related businesses
• Indigenous-owned businesses and organizations
• Provincial and municipal governments

What RDII supports

• Innovation and R&D — developing military or adapting dual-use technologies
• Productivity and scale-up — modernizing facilities and equipment
• Supply-chain integration — meeting certification standards and connecting with major contractors
• Ecosystem growth — strengthening regional infrastructure and expertise

Atlantic Canada advantage

• Nearly 10,000 defence and aerospace jobs
• 18% of Canada’s Defence Industry Employment
• 34% of Canada’s marine industry workforce
• Recognized strengths in shipbuilding, aerospace, sonar systems, simulation, and cyber resilience
• Backed by strategic coastal assets and a deep industrial base

How to apply

Learn more — read our FAQ.

Ready to apply? 

Driving innovation. Building resilience. Advancing Canada’s defence future.