Canada supports Indigenous aerospace company and aerospace sector in British Columbia

CNW Group/Pacific Economic Development Canada)

NORTH SAANICH —PacifiCan announced funding of $165,750 to Harwood Custom Composites to scale up their operations and expand their manufacturing capabilities. This funding comes from the Aerospace Regional Recovery Initiative.

Harwood Custom Composites, a certified Aboriginal business, has been a key supplier of custom composite fabrication, repair, and design services to the local aerospace industry for over 20 years. The company is positioned to supply parts and services to meet a growing demand from aircraft manufacturers. This PacifiCan funding will allow Harwood to grow by securing equipment and materials, hiring and training new staff, and attracting new customers.

This funding announcement coincides with the opening of the 2023 Aerospace, Defence and Security Expo, delivered by the Aerospace Industries Association of Canada (AIAC). In 2019, Western Economic Diversification Canada (WD), PacifiCan’s predecessor, provided $1.5M to the Association to support the growth of western Canada’s aerospace industry, which included delivering the 2023 Expo.

“British Columbian ingenuity and skill are helping build the aircraft that transport people and goods around Canadaand the globe,” said Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada. “This funding demonstrates the Government of Canada’s commitment to a thriving aerospace sector by supporting local companies in growing their business, creating highly-skilled jobs, and competing on the world stage.”