top of page
CCPb1-NRCSD-integration-24.jpg

Entrepreneurship:

Building Canada’s Future in Space, Ocean, and AI

This component focuses on fostering entrepreneurship in the dynamic fields of space, ocean technology, and artificial intelligence (AI). Students will learn how to start a business in these sectors, exploring the intersection of innovation and commercialization in the Canadian context. With support from the Canadian government and industry leaders such as GALAXIA Mission Systems, Obruta Space, Reaction Dynamics and more, students will gain exposure to real-world case studies and connect with experts across these industries.

​

Through hands-on activities, students will develop practical skills in business planning, market analysis, and funding strategies, while gaining insights into how startups in space, ocean, and AI can shape the future of Canadian technology.

Applications in the Real World

Canadian Space Startups

Opportunities for entrepreneurs to develop new satellite technologies, space communications systems, or space data analytics platforms.

AI Ventures

Entrepreneurs working in AI can develop applications that enhance everything from satellite data processing to smart ocean monitoring systems, driving innovation across multiple sectors.

Ocean Tech Innovation

Startups focused on developing underwater robotics, ocean sensors, and sustainable marine solutions, critical for Canada’s maritime regions.

Government and Industry Support

The Canadian Space Agency (CSA), Innovation, Science, and Economic Development Canada (ISED), and Industrial Research Assistance Program (IRAP) provide funding and resources to help entrepreneurs in these fields grow.

High-Level Curriculum

IMG_8050.jpg
1. Introduction to Entrepreneurship in Space, Ocean, and AI:

  • Overview of entrepreneurship and its role in driving innovation in space, ocean, and AI industries.

  • The Canadian entrepreneurial ecosystem: Understanding the key players (CSA, NRC, Innovate Canada), incubators, and accelerators for tech startups.

  • Real-world application: Overview of successful Canadian space startups (e.g., GALAXIA, Obruta, GHGSat, Reaction Dynamics, etc.).

2. Building a Business in Emerging Sectors

  • Understanding market opportunities in space, ocean technology, and AI.

  • Key skills for entrepreneurs: business planning, market research, funding strategies, and intellectual property (IP) management.

  • Hands-on project: Create a business plan for a startup focused on space data analytics or ocean sensor technology.

3. Canadian Space Entrepreneurship:

  • The role of space startups in Canada’s economy: From satellite manufacturing to data analytics and space communications.

  • Success stories: Case studies of Canadian space companies.

  • CSA’s support for space entrepreneurs: How students can access funding and mentorship from Canadian government agencies to launch their space ventures.

4. Entrepreneurship in Ocean Technology:

  • The importance of ocean tech in Canada: Applications in marine exploration, sustainable fisheries, and ocean monitoring.

  • Collaboration with provincial and federal programs, including Ocean Supercluster and regional economic development initiatives, to foster ocean tech innovation.

  • Case study: The rise of Canada’s Ocean Supercluster and how it supports marine tech startups.

  • Hands-on project: Design a business concept focused on underwater robotics or ocean data solutions.

5. Funding and Scaling a Business

  • Sources of funding for Canadian entrepreneurs: Government grants, venture capital, angel investors, and industry partnerships.

  • Navigating Canada’s funding landscape: Programs like SR&ED, IRAP, and the CSA’s Innovation Fund.

  • Networking and scaling: Building relationships with industry leaders, attending conferences like StartupFest, and leveraging national and international connections.

6. Future Trends and Opportunities:

  • Emerging trends in space, ocean, and AI: How Canadian entrepreneurs can capitalize on developments in CubeSats, AI-driven environmental monitoring, and autonomous underwater vehicles.

  • AI’s role in automating and optimizing space and ocean solutions: The next frontier for startups.

  • International collaboration: How Canadian entrepreneurs can tap into global markets through partnerships with NASA, NOAA, and the European Space Agency (ESA).

Ready to begin your voyage?

bottom of page