This program pairs Indigenous businesses with organizational sponsors who provide opportunities to leverage connections in their global supply chains, learn regulatory requirements, and acquire knowledge and skills to work within the defence industry.
IBDSA Program
As the inaugural sponsors for the program, General Dynamics’ three business units in Canada Land Systems–Canada, Mission Systems–Canada, and Ordnance and Tactical Systems–Canada are proud to support Indigenous businesses across the country.
General Dynamics is a global defence and aerospace company with a worldwide reputation for excellence. In Canada, their operations focus on the production of combat vehicles, weapons systems and munitions, and IT and C4ISR solutions for the Canadian Armed Forces and allied forces worldwide.
Applications are closed
Applications opened on June 14, 2024 and closed on July 12, 2024.
Indigenous businesses will be paired with organizational sponsors through the program to learn about regulatory requirements, acquire knowledge and skills to work within the industry and leverage opportunities within their sponsors’ global supply chain.
This program is available to any Indigenous Business that:
- Meets the criteria of being 51% Indigenous owned and controlled
- Has established products and/or service relevant to the defence sector
- Interest to mature and grow current business
- Interest to pursue business as a start-up within the defence sector
- Able to invest time into the program – Could be hour long sessions held bi weekly or monthly from September to May (depending on your tailored plan with Sponsor) – Some certification processes take up to 6 months to complete (controlled goods)
- Tailored information sessions and plans with Sponsor
- Potential onboarding into procurement systems
- Potential for contract awards
- Access to Sponsor leadership
- Development of connections within the defence industry
- Enhanced knowledge to operate business within the defence sector
Application window open: June 14, 2024
Application window closes: July 12, 2024
CCIB application review: July 15 to 19, 2024
Sponsor review and decision making: July 22 to August 30, 2024
Sponsor and business interview phase September 2 to September 20, 2024
Candidate selection announcement: September 23-27 , 2024
Program kick-off: September 30, 2024 Program close: May 31, 2025
