Waterloo Region — The Region of Waterloo and the Accelerator Centre are expanding opportunities for local aerospace, aviation, defence and dual-use technology companies. The organizations will showcase the sector’s growing capabilities at Aero Expo 2026: Waterloo Region’s Aerospace, Defence & Dual-Use Industry Expo, taking place September 16 during Waterloo Tech Week. 

Aero Expo 2026 will bring together Waterloo Region-based companies and partners working in aerospace, aviation, robotics, artificial intelligence, sensing, advanced manufacturing, defence technologies and other dual-use applications. 

Presented by AeroWR in partnership with the Accelerator Centre, the Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce and the Cambridge Chamber of Commerce, the Expo will provide a focused platform for organizations to showcase their products, technologies and capabilities. Participants will have opportunities to connect with prospective customers, suppliers and strategic partners, while exploring new avenues for investment and growth. 

Learn more about Aero Expo 2026 on the Accelerator Centre’s website. 

Aero Expo is part of a broader effort to build a connected aerospace and aviation ecosystem in Waterloo Region. Through the Aerospace Accelerator, the Region of Waterloo and the Accelerator Centre are also supporting early-stage aerospace, aviation, defence and dual-use technology companies as they develop, validate and scale their innovations. 

Together, Aero Expo, the Aerospace Accelerator Program and other AeroWR initiatives are helping connect, showcase and grow companies that are advancing innovative technologies and creating employment opportunities across the sector. 

More information about the Aero Accelerator Program and other initiatives can be found on AeroWR.ca  

Quotes:

“Waterloo Region has the talent, technology and advanced manufacturing capability to make a meaningful contribution to Canada’s aerospace, aviation and defence industries. Through AeroWR and our partnership with the Accelerator Centre, we are helping local companies translate innovation into growth, investment and new market opportunities.” 

Karen Redman, Chair, Region of Waterloo 

“Aerospace, aviation and defence are increasingly important to Canada’s economic strength, security and global competitiveness. Through the Aerospace Accelerator, we’re helping turn those strengths into globally competitive companies and new technologies, while the Aero Expo creates a platform to showcase our region’s capabilities and build the industry connections that drive growth. Together, these investments are helping build a stronger, more connected aerospace and defence ecosystem with the potential for lasting economic impact.” 

Tabatha Laverty, Chief Operating Officer, Accelerator Centre 

“Aero Expo 2026 is an opportunity to bring the region’s aerospace, defence, advanced manufacturing and dual-use technology ecosystem together in one place. It will help companies build the partnerships and market connections needed to compete and grow.” 

Ian McLean, President/CEO, Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce 

“Waterloo Region’s aerospace and advanced manufacturing strengths are built on collaboration across companies, institutions and communities. The Expo will provide a valuable platform for firms to showcase their capabilities and connect with new customers, suppliers and partners.” 

Greg Durocher, President/CEO Cambridge Chamber of Commerce 

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About the Region of Waterloo’s AeroWR 

Powered by the Region of Waterloo, AeroWR is Waterloo Region’s strategic sector initiative. It supports the growth of a connected and collaborative local ecosystem of businesses, talent, research institutions and public-sector partners across aerospace, aviation, advanced manufacturing, defence and related dual-use technologies. Learn more at AeroWR.ca

About the Accelerator Centre 

The Accelerator Centre empowers early-stage tech founders in the Waterloo Region with access to early-stage capital, mentorship, tactical supports, and industry networks essential to building businesses that thrive. This is where the real business of entrepreneurship gets done, every day. Everything we do begins and ends with founders—the problem solvers, builders, and bold thinkers driving Canada’s innovation economy forward. Supporting them isn’t just our mission; it’s our passion, and we are committed to being the most trusted partner as they create new industries, fuel local economies, and inspire the next generation of made-in-Ontario tech companies. 
 
The Aerospace Accelerator is a six-month program delivered by the Accelerator Centre in collaboration with the Region of Waterloo and Skywise. The program supports early-stage aerospace, aviation and aeronautics startups with sector-specific mentorship, business-growth programming, investor connections and access to industry networks. Participating companies may have opportunities to test appropriate technologies at the Region of Waterloo International Airport.  

Learn more at acceleratorcentre.com. 

About the Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce 

The Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce is the voice of business in Waterloo Region. It represents and supports businesses through advocacy, networking, professional development and programs that help strengthen the region’s economy and business community. 

About the Cambridge Chamber of Commerce 

The Cambridge Chamber of Commerce supports, promotes and advocates for businesses in Cambridge and the surrounding area. The Chamber connects members with resources, networks and opportunities that help local businesses grow and contribute to a strong regional economy.