Canada Deepens Space Ties with Europe
Will Increase Investment in ESA Programs by $528.5 Million
Canada will increase its investment in European Space Agency (ESA) programs by $528.5 million. This investment represents a tenfold increase compared to previous contributions and is set to advance research and development of Canadian-made space technologies for both civilian and defense purposes. It will help build an industrial base that is ready and capable of supporting Canada’s commercial, defense and security needs.
“By deepening our commitment, we’re ensuring that Canada remains a trusted and forward-looking space partner on the world stage.”
Lisa Campbell, CSA
The move was announced by the Honorable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions at the recent SpaceBound 2025 Conference. “In an increasingly complex world, the Canadian space sector is critical to keeping Canadians safe and secure while also playing a strategic and expanding role in creating jobs and economic benefits,” Joly said. “This historic investment to European Space Agency programs creates new opportunities for Canada’s world-renowned space sector to thrive globally, advance technologies and build a competitive and resilient industrial base that serves our national interests.”
Canada is navigating a world that is increasingly more complex and more dangerous, one that demands that we explore new approaches to our economy, our national defense and our international partnerships with trusted allies. This includes building a new, ambitious, and more comprehensive partnership with the European Union, its member countries and multilateral organizations.
“The Canada-ESA collaboration has proven its value over nearly 50 years -- helping Canadian companies grow, innovate, and compete globally,” said Lisa Campbell, president of the Canadian Space Agency. “By deepening our commitment, we’re ensuring that Canada remains a trusted and forward-looking space partner on the world stage.”
Canada’s longstanding cooperation with ESA provides Canadian companies with privileged access to the European space market. Every dollar awarded to Canadian businesses through ESA contracts generates over three dollars in follow-on sales, benefitting Canadian organizations and injecting value into the Canadian economy. Canada’s ESA investment will provide direct opportunities for the Canadian space sector to increase exports, diversify partnerships and promote Canada’s cutting-edge expertise and space technology in the European market.
“Research and development are not luxuries – they are the frontline of defense in a world of emerging threats,” said The Honorable David J. McGuinty, Minister of National Defense. “Canada’s strength lies in its ability to adapt and lead in a sector defined by rapid advancements. Canada’s close relationship with the European Space Agency allows the Defense Team to present a ready and resilient force, prepared for the future.”