BC Innovators Talk Aerospace Opportunities with Strix and BCAC
As Canada’s aerospace sector continues advancing toward a more sustainable future, regional ecosystems are continuing to play their strategic role in shaping innovation. For British Columbia in particular, strengths in clean energy, maintenance and overhaul expertise, and industry collaboration have positioned the province as crucial for aerospace technology development.
To deepen connections within the region and form new ones, Strix brought its networking series, Foster Innovation, to BC with some help.
Bringing the conversation to British Columbia
On May 25, 2026, Strix hosted the second edition of its strategic event format with the British Columbia Aviation Council (BCAC) as an add-on event to BCAC26. Together, the organizations explored the current BC aerospace landscape and discussed what Strix can offer innovators looking for collaboration opportunities, project support, and funding pathways.
Working to maximize insights for attendees with Strix’s team, BCAC guest speakers reflected the collaborative focus of the event. BCAC Executive Director, Dave Frank, shared perspectives on the province’s aerospace sector and its evolving priorities, while Nanaimo Airport VP, Operations, Regulatory Affairs, and Infrastructure, Don Goulard, touched on the importance of sustainability leadership and continued industry collaboration across aviation.
At the centre of discussions for the day was the Initiative for Sustainable Aviation Technology (INSAT), Strix’s program supporting collaborative aerospace projects focused on sustainable innovation. Speaking to the advantages of programs like INSAT, and Strix as a managing organization, Dave Frank stated “Strix is absolutely an efficient vehicle to distribute government money.” With this line, the innovative funding possibilities sunk in with attendees.
Discussions grounded in industry reality
During the workshop portion of the event, participants across all groups identified funding as one of the biggest obstacles facing innovation in aerospace today. And as discussions continued, many attendees began connecting that challenge directly to the role Strix could play in supporting collaborative projects and helping organizations move ideas forward with INSAT.
The workshop became one of the most engaging parts of the event, with conversations shifting from general discussion toward practical problem-solving. Participants exchanged ideas around partnerships, testing opportunities, and project development.
In their discussions, attendees pointed to several reasons why BC is well positioned for sustainable aerospace innovation. The province’s clean energy sector, strong maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) capabilities, global industry connections, and close collaboration between industry, academia, and government were all highlighted as advantages. Many participants agreed that BC’s geography and existing ecosystem make it a strong environment for testing and advancing new aerospace technologies.
For Strix, these discussions reinforced the importance of engaging directly with regional ecosystems across Canada. While innovation priorities may differ by province, the need for collaboration, funding access, and public-private support remains consistent throughout the sector.
Supporting BC-Based INSAT projects
Strix already works closely with BC-based organizations through INSAT, supporting projects that align with Canada’s broader goals around sustainable aerospace development. Currently, six BC-based collaborators are participating in INSAT projects, while 12 organizations from the province are part of Strix’s growing national network.
As part of INSAT, Strix has contributed $22.2 million toward innovative aerospace projects involving BC know-how. These partnerships reflect the province’s growing role within Canada’s aerospace innovation landscape and demonstrate how regional expertise can contribute to larger national objectives.
As INSAT continues to expand, BC remains an important part of the program’s network due to its technical capabilities, sustainability focus, and established aerospace community.
Getting started with INSAT
Organizations interested in learning more about INSAT can connect with Strix to explore project eligibility, collaboration opportunities, and program support.
If you’re a forward-thinking BC-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.
About Strix
Strix is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting innovation and collaborative research in the Canadian aerospace industry and related sectors. We aim to position Canada as the global leader in aerospace and defence innovation by fostering multi-sectoral collaboration and access to resources — driving sustainable development and integration of technologies and platforms of the future.
About INSAT
The Initiative for Sustainable Aviation Technology (INSAT) is a national program dedicated to promoting innovation and sustainability in the aerospace sector. By bringing together experts from various fields, INSAT works to develop advanced technological solutions for a greener and more responsible aviation future.