Skip to main content

Your web browser is out of date. Update your browser for more security, speed and the best experience on this site.

Update your browser

We use cookies to make interactions with our websites and services easy and meaningful, to better understand how they are used and to tailor advertising. By using our website or clicking “ALLOW”, you are agreeing to our Privacy Policy.

Ignite the future of flight

Pioneering the next era of aerospace innovation.

Applications are now open until August 11th.

Aerospace Accelerator

Aerospace, aviation, and aeronautics in the Region of Waterloo 

Home to one of the top 20 busiest airports in Canada, the Region of Waterloo International Airport, Waterloo Region is an emerging hub for aerospace and aviation innovation.

Together, with the Region of Waterloo and NAVBLUE, we’ve created a home at the AC for aerospace entrepreneurs to test, grow, and scale their startups through a proven accelerator program model.

A hub for aerospace innovation

Are you ready to revolutionize the skies?

Selected startups will participate in 6 months of high-intensity programming. While in the program, you’ll have the opportunity to:

  • Elevate your ideas with expert guidance through one-to-one mentorship from industry experts and leaders who have shaped the aerospace domain
  • Access our award-winning education curriculum and investor network to help you proactively navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship
  • Test your tech at the Region of Waterloo International Airport for testing where appropriate
  • Access NAVBLUE's global network of industry experts and customers
  • Leverage up to $600,000 of in-kind perks and discounts from partners like AWS, Google for Startups, HubSpot, and more
  • Collaborate for global impact through an exclusive demo day with an international network of investors, airport operators, and corporate partners to mark the conclusion of the program
An Airbus A330 in flight.Pilot flying a plane.
An Airbus A350-1000 in flight.

Eligibility

Who is the Aerospace Accelerator for

We’re looking for the top 10 startups to collaborate with the AC and the Region of Waterloo to drive innovation in the aerospace, aviation, and aeronautics sectors. From cutting-edge propulsion systems to game-changing materials, the sky's the limit.

The Aerospace Accelerator program is best suited for early-stage startups and scale-ups developing innovative aerospace technologies—such as solutions in advanced air mobility (AAM), space systems, environmentally sustainable aviation, sustainable and efficient flight operations, collaborative air traffic management, unmanned traffic management/ air traffic management (UTM/ATM) integration, human factors/performance optimization, or supporting aerospace infrastructure. Ideal participants have a working, validated prototype or market-ready, or near-market-ready product, are engaging with potential industry partners or customers, and are ready for hands-on support to navigate the complex path to commercialization.

An aerial shot of the Region of Waterloo International Airport (YKF).
An Airbus A350-1000 in flight.

If you're a startup looking to disrupt the aerospace industry, this challenge is your launchpad to rapid growth and industry disruption. To join the Aerospace Accelerator Program, you must meet the following requirements:

  • Be based in (or have a strong connection to) Waterloo Region
  • Be incorporated in Canada or show proof of plans to incorporate within 30 days of program start
  • Be an early-stage company with an in-market or near in-market solution
  • Be able to commit to attending regularly scheduled in-person workshops and virtual mentorship sessions

Priority will be given to startups that integrate AI, robotics, and/or advance materials/manufacturing into their solutions.

An aerial shot of the Region of Waterloo International Airport (YKF).

Program partners

Driving innovation through collaboration

Our collaborators help us foster the growth and development of cutting-edge technologies while contributing to the economic and technological advancement of the region.

Aerospace Accelerator client success stories