From Lab to Launch: Dual-Use Innovation Challenge & Partnering Forum

Mitacs, in partnership with Carleton University, is hosting a targeted matchmaking initiative connecting Canadian companies with Carleton University researchers to catalyze new research collaborations in defence and security innovations.

Join us in person to pitch your tech challenge and connect with Carleton researchers to accelerate dual-use innovation.

Why Participate?

The Defence Innovation Secure Hub (DISH) is focused on strengthening Canada’s defence innovation ecosystem by connecting industry, academia, and other stakeholders to address priority defence and security challenges. This partnering forum will provide a neutral, collaborative environment for companies to explore how academic research and talent can support innovation relevant to defence and security contexts.

Participating companies will deliver a brief pitch outlining a specific research opportunity/challenge for which they are seeking collaboration with researchers. The pitch session will be followed by structured matchmaking discussions with Carleton University researchers whose expertise aligns with the company’s opportunity/challenge.

Projects arising from this event may be eligible for funding through Mitacs’ standard programs or special initiative (to be announced).

This opportunity is open to Canadian companies for opportunities that align with Canada’s Key Sovereign Capabilities outlined in Canada’s Defence Industrial Strategy. Preference will be given to companies whose proposed projects align with Mitacs’ program criteria.

Registrations are only accepted online through this form.

Apply by: June 12, 2026 at 5:00pm ET

Companies must:

• Be a for-profit, incorporated company in Canada
• Present a defined R&D opportunity/challenge suitable for collaboration with academia
• Meet Mitacs’ program criteria
• Be available to attend the event in person on June 25, 2026 from 10am – 1pm at Carleton University at Kanata, Town Hall, Suite 128.