The SoCal-Canadian Space Accelerator has launched its call for applications to Canadian space startups and SMEs interested in opportunities to partner with US-space industry partners.

The initiative is a two-month virtual accelerator for Canadian space companies looking to grow partnerships and connections in the Southern California market. The initiative is led on by the Canadian Trade Commissioner Service (TCS) teams in Los Angeles and Denver with support from the Canadian Space Agency (CSA), and Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED).

The accelerator programming is being delivered by Pasadena, CA-based Mandala Space Ventures, a venture studio for space start-ups focused on the growing commercial space economy and solving problems on Earth using space technology.

Interested companies can apply here:
EN: https://lnkd.in/g6qUAxAD
FR: https://lnkd.in/g-s6mt4v

While the program is open to all Canadian space companies, the programming would be of particular value to space-focused Canadian companies looking raise between $500K to $20 million USD in venture capital funding. Sectors of interest include, but are not limited to: earth observation, emissions monitoring, low earth orbit, small satellites, deep space, space manufacturing, space mining, and astronaut health.

The accelerator will take place virtually from mid February through March 2024, and end with two opportunities to pitch to U.S. private sector, venture capital, and government stakeholders in Los Angeles and at the Colorado Springs Space Symposium.

See below key dates for companies interested in applying: 

November 22: Applications Due
Mid December: Public Selection Announcement
February 12 – March 29: Virtual Accelerator Programming
April 4: In person Los Angeles Pitch Day (Tentative)
April 8-11: Colorado Springs Space Symposium In Person Pitch Day

For any questions or clarifications on the SoCal – Canadian Space Accelerator application please connect with Trade Commissioner Service (TCS) accelerator lead Maddie Morris at maddie.morris@international.gc.ca