Strategic Collaboration Paves the Way for Growth in AI and Technological Innovation
In a significant move to bolster technological capacities, on July 3, 2025 the National Research Council of Canada (NRC) has partnered with the United Kingdom’s Compound Semiconductor Applications (CSA) Catapult and Quebec’s MiQro Innovation Collaborative Centre (C2MI). Together, these organizations have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at enhancing the semiconductor supply chain across Canada, the UK, and other G7 nations.
“As Canada continues to strengthen ties with reliable partners, we are proud to partner with CSA Catapult and C2MI to strengthen the semiconductor industry both in Canada and the United Kingdom. This international collaboration is the first of many to ensure we build a strong Canadian economy,” explained the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions.
This collaboration is set to foster greater integration between Canada and the UK in designing, fabricating, and packaging semiconductors over the next three years. The goal is to establish a resilient and high-performing value chain that can support both countries’ leadership in the semiconductor ecosystem, positioning them as global players in a rapidly advancing technological field.
“This partnership is a vital step toward building a strong and resilient semiconductor supply chain for Canada and our G7 partners. Semiconductors are the backbone of our digital future, powering everything from AI data centres to defence systems. They are essential for building AI data centres in Canada that are more energy efficient while ensuring sensitive and private information remains in Canada. This partnership will accelerate innovation, secure sensitive data within our borders, and position Canada as a global leader in advanced technology. Together, we are laying the foundation for the next generation of cutting-edge digital infrastructure,” expressed the Honourable Evan Solomon, Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario.
Semiconductors play a pivotal role in powering key industries and applications, from military defense systems and radar detection to high-performance computing and telecommunications. They are also foundational in building energy-efficient AI data centres in Canada, ensuring that sensitive data remains securely within the country’s borders.
“The NRC’s Canadian Photonics Fabrication Centre has a long history of fabricating semiconductors to power the most modern telecommunications and data communications networks, including AI infrastructure. Combining our strengths with those of our partners—CSA Catapult and the MiQro Innovation Collaborative Centre—positions our countries as global leaders in the development and commercialization of semiconductor devices” added Mitch Davies, President, National Research Council of Canada.
As semiconductors continue to be vital to Canada’s technological advancement, their influence will only grow. This strategic partnership is not only crucial for future economic growth but also for driving innovation in emerging sectors like quantum technologies. Moreover, this collaboration strengthens Canada’s ability to attract and retain talent in critical sectors, ensuring the country remains at the forefront of global technological development.
“We’re delighted to sign this MoU with our Canadian partners and look forward to establishing a long and mutually beneficial relationship between ourselves, the UK and Canada. Strategic alliances are integral to the UK’s ambition to be a global leader in semiconductor R&D, and I am pleased to see CSA Catapult lead the way and strengthen collaborations with our Canadian partners at the centre of a thriving semiconductor industry across the entire value chain,” stated Raj Gawera, head of CSA Catapult.
By aligning resources and expertise with the UK, Canada is set to build a robust and sustainable semiconductor supply chain that will drive innovation and growth in both nations and beyond.
“Collaboration is at the heart of what we do at C2MI, and we are proud to be part of this international alliance. Our expertise in accelerating the commercialization of semiconductor components will lead to supply chain stability for companies in the photonics market for both our countries,” said Marie-Josée Turgeon, CEO, MiQro Innovation Collaborative Centre (C2MI).
