Strix aerospace industry engagement success in Manitoba
INSAT seeking new proejct proposals
At Strix, we believe that partnership is the engine of Canadian aerospace innovation. Canada is home to a wide range of expertise – and when these diverse strengths align, transformative progress becomes achievable. That idea drives the Initiative for Sustainable Aviation Technology (INSAT), which is the program we power.
INSAT depends on broad participation to accelerate the development and adoption of low-emission aviation technologies in Canada. And to extend the program’s clean footprint, Strix recently touched down in one of the country’s largest aerospace hubs: Manitoba.
Through meaningful engagement with Manitoba’s aerospace community, Strix has identified promising local projects that align with INSAT’s goals. Manitoba-based aerospace organizations have forward-thinking projects, and Strix has the resources to help make them a reality.
Fostering innovation – Strix in Manitoba
On February 26, 2026, Strix held a regional event in collaboration with the Manitoba Aviation Council (MAC) and Manitoba Aerospace. The morning network gathering offered attendees a program that was innovation-focused and free of charge.
Speaking to leaders in the province, our Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Michel Dion, and Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Lyne Guay, showcased Strix and INSAT; what they offers, who they can benefit, and how to get started. Chief Communications and Business Development Officer (CCO/CBOO), Julien Caudroit, led a workshop – featuring a finance clinic and group brainstorming session – which touched on ways to keep fostering innovation in the industry.
The event proved to be a success, and it represents another step towards INSAT in Manitoba for Strix. Innovators in attendance showed interest in the program – something both Strix, and Canadian governments want to see.
Supporting government interests in Manitoba
At the Manitoba Aviation Conference by MAC – prior to our gathering – Michel Dion shared his vision with Premier Wab Kinew to have INSAT funded projects within the province. The Premier welcomed this prospect, and he looks forward to fostering Manitoban innovation with our program’s support.
Powering INSAT on behalf of the federal government, Strix aims to bring public funding paired with deep industry expertise to the Manitoba aerospace ecosystem. Program resources will help jump-start innovation all while enabling economic benefits for the region.
Utilizing Manitoba’s mature aerospace foundation
Continued investments in Manitoba’s aerospace industry have greatly expanded its specialized workforce and facilities over the years.
Recognizing the province’s role as a strategic player in Canadian aerospace, the governments of Canada and Manitoba provide it with targeted support to achieve breakthroughs, manufacture them, and operate too. For example, most recently, on February 27, 2026, the federal and provincial governments announced $15M in funding, alongside the Winnipeg Airports Authority’s $17M contribution, for airside development at Winnipeg Richardson International Airport.
These types of investments – which only account for some of the new money in the province – support aerospace and defence growth in terms of know-how, equipment, and collaboration. It has ensured ongoing infrastructure developments that enable a mature foundation to hold-down collaborative projects when ready for commercialization.
Becoming Strix’s first INSAT project in Manitoba
INSAT projects can be found across the country, representing the diverse innovation of various companies in six provinces thus far.
If you’re a forward-thinking Manitoba-based aerospace company or academic looking for project support, or to join a collaborative effort, Strix can help you get started with INSAT. We have the contacts to introduce potential partners, and the expertise to keep you going in your new projects.
If you’re not quite ready for INSAT, you can still become a member in our network to benefit from our resources. As part of our value proposition, we provide funding, consulting, as well as event, communication, and networking opportunities to make your organization shine.