Accelerator Centre launches inaugural Aerospace Accelerator Program in collaboration with the Region of Waterloo and NAVBLUE

Waterloo, ON — Accelerator Centre (AC) is pleased to announce the launch of its groundbreaking Aerospace Accelerator in collaboration with the Region of Waterloo and NAVBLUE. This innovative initiative aims to foster the growth and development of cutting-edge aerospace technologies while contributing to the economic and technological advancement of the region.

The Aerospace Accelerator will run out of the AC’s headquarters in Waterloo and be delivered through a combination of remote and in-person education, mentorship, and networking opportunities. The program will serve as a dynamic hub for startups, entrepreneurs, and established companies in the aerospace sector. The innovative program provides access to potential test facilities, mentorship, networking opportunities, and access to the investment community to accelerate the development of innovative aerospace solutions that align with the Region of Waterloo’s aviation and aerospace priorities.

Waterloo Region’s strong aviation and aerospace ecosystem is built on a reputation for top talent, exceptional research capacity and a legacy of manufacturing and tech innovation. The Region is home to a full-service airport (YKF) and is strategically located next to one of Canada’s largest aerospace clusters. With 100+ companies working in materials testing and development, component and aircraft manufacturing and software and sensor technology, Waterloo Region is a leader in aviation and aerospace.

NAVBLUE is a leading services company, wholly owned by Airbus, dedicated to Flight Operations solutions and services for airlines and aircraft operators, on the ground and onboard. NAVBLUE combines aircraft manufacturer expertise, flight operations know-how and agile development to enhance operational efficiency, optimize resources and increase productivity, for a safe and sustainable aviation. Entrepreneurs participating in the Aerospace Accelerator will benefit from NAVBLUE’s extensive industry expertise and global network of over 600 customers and 500 employees.

Applications for the program open on February 1, 2024 and will remain open until February 22, 2024. In March, the top 10 companies will begin working with the AC and the Region to accelerate their growth. From cutting-edge propulsion systems to game-changing materials, the sky’s the limit.

For more information on the program and eligibility requirements, visit the program page.

"We are thrilled to announce the launch of our Aerospace Accelerator in collaboration with the Region of Waterloo and NAVBLUE. This initiative underscores our commitment to making Waterloo Region one of the top 3 startup destinations in the world. By expanding our long-term partnership with the Region and building new collaborative avenues with industry leaders like NAVBLUE, we aim to drive further innovation and create a lasting impact on the future of aviation and aerospace technology.”
- Jay Krishnan, AC CEO

“Local partnerships, innovation, aerospace, and our international airport (YKF) are cornerstones for our future economic growth. We are fortunate to be home to many world-class aviation and aerospace companies like NAVBLUE and are excited to partner with them and the Accelerator Centre to grow Waterloo Region’s aviation and aerospace cluster.”
- Karen Redman, Chair of the Regional Municipality of Waterloo

“We are thrilled to be partnering with the Accelerator Centre (AC) and the Region of Waterloo on this Aerospace Accelerator Program. Bringing new technologies to market in the aviation industry is complex. Working with AC allows us to combine NAVBLUE’s flight operations expertise and Airbus’ design and manufacturing knowledge to provide mentorship and support the development of new technologies.”
- Marc Lemeilleur, CEO of NAVBLUE

About the Accelerator Centre
At the AC, we exist to help ambitious dreamers impact global change through their businesses. The AC is ranked among the World Top 5 private business accelerators by UBI Global. We offer an extensive selection of customizable opportunities for startups across Canada—allowing founders to rapidly bring their innovation to life. We work with our global partners to bolster the innovation ecosystem in Waterloo and beyond. Learn more at acceleratorcentre.com.

About the Regional Municipality of Waterloo
The Regional Municipality of Waterloo, situated in Southern Ontario, is a diverse and thriving community that encompasses the cities of Kitchener, Waterloo, and Cambridge, along with the townships of Woolwich, Wilmot, Wellesley, and North Dumfries. With a commitment to innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity, the Region is dedicated to building a resilient and vibrant community for all. For more information, visit regionofwaterloo.ca.

About NAVBLUE
NAVBLUE is a leading services company, wholly owned by Airbus, dedicated to Flight Operations solutions and services for airlines and aircraft operators, on the ground and onboard. NAVBLUE combines aircraft manufacturer expertise, flight operations know-how and agile development to enhance operational efficiency, optimise resources and increase productivity, for a safe and sustainable aviation. NAVBLUE delivers a reliable, optimum and customised user experience to more than 600 customers worldwide, in a range of areas, including digital cockpit operations, Operations Control Centre (OCC) systems, Flight Ops Engineering and Performance Based Navigation (PBN). NAVBLUE employs 500 employees spread across the world, with offices in Canada, France, Poland, Singapore, Sweden, Thailand, UK and US and representatives in several other countries across the globe.
Discover NAVBLUE’s solutions here: www.navblue.aero.

Media Contacts
Tabatha Laverty
VP, Marketing and External Relations
Accelerator Centre
[email protected]

Lynsey Slupeiks Manager Corporate Communications
Region of Waterloo
[email protected]

Marie Deltort
Communications Manager
NAVBLUE
[email protected]