Over the past year, the global landscape has shifted in dramatic ways, directly affecting Canada's security, economy and long-term prosperity. At the NRC, we are mobilizing our people, facilities and research and innovation strengths to help grow the technological and industrial capacity needed for Canada to meet this moment.
In 2025–2026, new focus was placed on strengthening Canada's defence innovation capabilities. Under the Government of Canada's Defence Industrial Strategy, the NRC is mobilizing to build on our long-standing support of the Department of National Defence and the Canadian Armed Forces, applying our expertise to meet defence and security priorities in areas such as aerospace and quantum technologies. At the same time, we have ramped up the support we provide to ambitious Canadian companies with plans to grow, with the NRC Industrial Research Assistance Program (NRC IRAP) providing them with the advice and funding they need to develop and deliver defence and dual-use technologies. By strengthening Canada's technological sovereignty, we are boosting both national security and industrial competitiveness.
Our 2024–2029 Strategic Plan, Research Powering Innovation for Canada, stands up well as we align our work to deliver in today's circumstances. Our capabilities are aligned to areas that matter to building Canada: artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, critical minerals, battery technologies, electrification of transportation, climate-resilient infrastructure, modern methods of construction, biomanufacturing and biologics, and more. We also have well-established partnerships around the world to facilitate joint research and development projects, and we participate in global innovation networks such as Eureka to help connect ambitious Canadian companies to new markets worldwide.
It goes without saying that the NRC delivers its value through its talented people, who continue to go above and beyond. I want to thank them for their passion and commitment, especially during a time of change at the NRC and for Canada.
As we look ahead, by remaining true to our values of integrity, excellence, respect and creativity, I know we will continue to deliver—and in doing so, contribute to a stronger, more resilient Canada.
Mitch Davies
President