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Technology Demonstration AO

On this page

  1. Introduction
  2. AO Objectives
  3. Eligibility Criteria
  4. Two (2) Step Application Process
  5. Evaluation
  6. Funding
  7. Funding Agreements
  8. Privacy Notice Statement
  9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
  10. Appendix A Point-Rated Evaluation Criteria

Industrial Capability-Building Contribution

Announcement of Opportunity (AO)

Publication date:

Application start :

Application deadline:

Summary of Key Information

1. Introduction

In the last decade, the Canadian space community has expressed, through forums, conferences, working groups, and more recently through the CSA's Request For Information, the need for frequent and accessible demonstration opportunities for innovative space technologies. The space scene has changed in recent years as several new platforms and launch providers have appeared. Furthermore, CubeSats are increasingly used as a cost-effective solution for space demonstrations and validations of new technologies.

Technology demonstration, for the purpose of this Announcement of Opportunity (AO), means to demonstrate technologies in space. A technology may require a specific demonstration: to gain flight heritage for potential commercial sales, for validation, for an eventual scientific experiment, to demonstrate a new product, service or application. More specifically, this AO will support the development of a proto-flight model, its adaptation, delivery, integration, launch and demonstration.

In light of the above, the Canadian Space Agency (CSA) is issuing this AO to specifically support the Canadian space sector with funds to demonstrate new technologies in space, before . This AO will award non-repayable contributions of up to $2M per research and development project, that expect benefits in the short to medium term (i.e. 1 to 5 years).

Applicants are asked to read the following AO thoroughly before submitting their applications. This AO was prepared to help applicants complete the application process, and outlines key elements, including mandatory criteria for eligibility, details on eligible projects and the selection process. In the event of any discrepancies between this AO and the individual funding agreements governing a project, the latter document(s) will take precedence.

This AO is consistent with the terms and conditions of the Canadian Space Agency (CSA) Class Grant and Contribution Program.

2. AO Objectives

The objective of this AO is to support the technology demonstration activities of the Canadian space sector. More specifically: to gain flight heritage for potential commercial sales; for validation or qualification of an eventual scientific instrument; to demonstrate a new product, service or application. These activities will enable selected Canadian organizations to further their basic R&D capabilities with the ultimate purpose of increasing the commercial potential.

3. Eligibility Criteria

In this section

3.1 Eligible Recipients

Eligible recipients are limited to:

  1. for-profit organizations,
  2. not-for-profit organizations, and
  3. universities.

All must be established and operating in Canada.

Multiple eligible recipients can collaborate on the same project through a partnership, where all partners are all jointly and severally (solitarily) liable in the contribution agreement and are all considered funding recipients.

3.2 Eligible Projects

The CSA's technology demonstration AO aims to support the basic research and development of space technologies that demonstrate strong commercial potential.

Eligible projects are required to be manifested with a payload delivery service provider for launch before , as demonstrated with a letter of intent or launch service agreement. The agreement should include the rough order of magnitude (ROM) costs and a launch schedule. Any costs associated with the letter of intent or launch service agreement are not reimbursable, if incurred prior to signing a contribution agreement with the CSA.

Only technologies targeted at demonstration in space are eligible. Projects seeking demonstration in a suborbital flight platform, for example sounding rockets, are ineligible for this AO. Demonstrations through the International Space Station will only be eligible if the access is obtained through commercial service providers.

Eligible projects do not include Application development related to Earth Observation data, Satellite Telecommunications data, and Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) data as they are or will be supported through other funding opportunities:

Eligible technologies must have reached TRL-6 (System/subsystem model or prototype demonstration in a relevant environment (ground or space)) at the beginning of the project. They do not include the design and development of an instrument, payload or platform (e.g. Basic R&D from TRL 1 to TRL 4). However, they do include the R&D to adapt an existing instrument or payload for its integration on a demonstration platform. Activities such as adaptation of interfaces (electrical and mechanical), volume, mass or power and integration/modification of components to withstand the space environment are eligible.

Proposals for eligible projects must include an explanation of the foreseen benefits of the demonstration in space with regard to both the technology and the future opportunities enabled by the demonstration.

Any logical breakdown or combination of project phases can constitute a funded project. However, breaking down a project into numerous phases to obtain more than the maximum contribution in this AO is not allowed.

Furthermore, if a proposal is for pursuing a standalone R&D funded in another awarded contribution (past or ongoing), the proposed follow-up R&D, even if funded in a new contribution agreement, is considered another phase of R&D of the same G&C project which the program has a cumulative limit of $5M. If the maximum funding for one project is not reached, the completion of a funded phase does not automatically guarantee funding of the remaining phases.

3.3 Links to CSA Priorities

This AO focuses on the CSA's priority of building capabilities and positioning Canada's commercial space sector to help grow the economy and create the jobs of the future. It will support projects that aim to develop new concepts, products and/or know-how. Industrial capability building therefore encompasses all projects aimed at strengthening the industry core capabilities with particular focus on developing its people and technologies.

3.4 Links to Program Objectives and other Funding Sources

This AO supports the Space Technology Development Program (STDP) objectives to support innovation for the growth of the Canadian space industry and to reduce technological unknowns. Projects also address the Space Capacity Development Program (SCDP) objective to increase space and market readiness for both science and technologies to be flight-ready for space missions. This AO also contributes to the following objectives of the CSA Class G&C Program: To support the development of technologies relevant to Canada; and, To foster the continuing development of a critical mass of highly qualified personnel (HQP) in Canada.

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

Applicants should strive for a balanced representation in the group HQPs participating in the project. For instance, applicants are encouraged to propose projects that increase the representativeness of the four designated groups (women, Indigenous peoples, members of visible minorities, and persons with disabilities).

Mitacs

Potential applicants may be interested in contacting Mitacs, a national not-for-profit organization. It builds partnerships that support industrial and social innovation in Canada, especially by helping companies access the talent, technologies, and strategic partnerships they need to innovate and grow. Academic researchers and highly skilled graduates or postdoctoral talent can be leveraged on research projects in collaboration with universities. Potential applicants will have to account for the Mitacs funding as part of the total government (federal, provincial, territorial and municipal) assistance in the application form.

3.5 Basic R&D Definition

Eligible projects supported under this AO must comply with the following definition for basic R&D by providing the required justification within section 4 of the outline proposal form:

"Any pre-commercial technology activities that are carried out to resolve unknowns regarding the feasibility of space concepts in the space sector."

The following due diligence process will be applied to determine whether projects are compliant with this definition. To that end, justification to be provided in section 4 of the Outline Proposal form should :

  • Quantify the technical objectives being sought and must describe how the expected results will be measured;
  • Clearly state which technological unknowns are proposed to be answered;
  • Clearly state the working hypotheses behind solving the unknowns and describe how plausible it is anticipated to solve these unknowns;
  • Demonstrate that the proposed project consists of more than routine engineering or current operations; and
  • Substantiate the current Technology Readiness Level (TRL) and the proposed TRL expected to be reached (up to TRL 8).

The following Technology Readiness Level (TRL) definitions must be used:

TRL 1

Basic principles observed and reported

TRL 2

Technology concept and/or application formulated

TRL 3

Analytical and experimental critical function and/or characteristic proof-of-concept

TRL 4

Component and/or breadboard validation in laboratory environment

TRL 5

Component and/or breadboard validation in relevant environment

TRL 6

System/subsystem model or prototype demonstration in a relevant environment (ground or space)

TRL 7

System prototype demonstration in a space environment

TRL 8

Actual system completed and "flight qualified" through test and demonstration

Basic R&D activities supported under this AO shall be undertaken in Canada unless they are essential to the success of the project.

4. Two (2) Step Application Process

In this section

This AO uses a two-step application process consisting of an initial Outline Proposal followed by a Complete Application if invited to submit.

4.1 Outline Proposal – Step 1

The objective of this step is to verify the eligibility criteria, as listed in section 5.1, of the applicant and the project before submitting a full proposal. Applicants must demonstrate with a letter of intent or launch service agreement that the technology is manifested with a payload delivery service provider for launch before . In addition, applicants must attest to the readiness of the technology by demonstrating it will have reached TRL-6 (system/subsystem model or prototype demonstration in a relevant environment) at the beginning of the project. Applicants must explain the foreseen benefits of the demonstration in space with regard to both the technology and the future opportunities enabled by the demonstration. Only applicants that have presented an outline proposal that meets the eligibility criteria and is deemed acceptable will receive an invitation to submit a complete application (see section 4.2).

4.1.1 Required documentation

In this first step, the project submitted shall include:

  • A completed original Outline Proposal Application Form signed by the duly authorized representative;
  • Letters of intent or launch service agreement;

The documents must be combined in a single PDF-formatted file, in the same order as presented above with all security features disabled. The application form and supporting documents must be included in the file as a searchable PDF-formatted document (PDF/A-1a format preferred). If there are any accessibility issues with the submitted PDF file, all consequences reside with the applicant.

It is the applicant's responsibility to ensure that the application complies with all relevant federal, provincial/territorial and municipal laws and regulations.

The applicant must keep one hard copy of all the original documents above. The CSA may require applicants who successfully passed the evaluation stage described in Section 5 of the AO to send a hard copy of their complete application with the original documents.

4.1.2 Submit the completed application electronically

  • Submit an account creation request using the Electronic Proposal Portal. Please note that Google Chrome is the browser of choice for submissions. Supported browsers are Google Chrome and MS Edge.
  • In the "Proposal title" field of the Electronic Proposal Portal, please use the following formatting standard: STDP TECH DEMO STEP1_ Name Of Organization_Short project name (e.g. STDP_TECH DEMO STEP1_SpaceCompanyA_OpticalSensorDemonstration).
  • The "Applicant" section should contain the information for contact person listed in the application form.
  • Allow up to 72 hours for the CSA to send an email confirming the account creation as well as instructions (user guide) on how to access the platform. It is strongly recommended that the account creation request be submitted no later than .
  • Using the temporary password assigned by the CSA, login to the secured portal to upload protected documents.
  • Please refer to the user guide for instructions on how to securely upload documents.

Please note:

  • Applicants using the electronic portal are encouraged to create their account no later than , as technical difficulties may arise. If technical issues cannot be resolved, applicants must submit their Outline Proposal by mail. Applicants are strongly encouraged to upload their Outline Proposal well before the submission deadline;
  • Outline Proposals must be submitted (successfully uploaded) by the applicants no later than at 1:00 p.m. (ET).
  • The onus is on the applicant to ensure their Outline Proposal is complete and that all documents are uploaded on the Electronic Proposal Portal within the prescribed deadline;
  • The CSA is not responsible for any delays under any circumstances, and will refuse Outline Proposal that are received after the stipulated deadline;
  • Hand-delivered Outline Proposals will not be accepted;
  • Outline Proposals sent by e-mail will not be accepted;
  • Applicants are asked to not send their Outline Proposals both electronically and by mail or courier service. If multiple applications are submitted, only the latest valid version received will be considered;
  • Incomplete Outline Proposals will not be considered.

Outline Proposals will be reviewed in the order of reception and must reach CSA before 1:00 p.m. (ET),

4.1.3 How to submit an Outline Proposals by mail or using a recognized courier service

The applicant is encouraged to submit their Outline Proposals electronically following the instructions provided in Section 4.1.2 of the AO. However, if the applicant is unable to submit their Outline Proposals electronically, please communicate with pdts-stdp@asc-csa.gc.ca no later than at 1:00 p.m. (ET) to obtain instructions on how to submit a paper Outline Proposal by mail or using a recognized courier service.

Outline Proposals submitted by mail or using a recognized courier service must be received at the CSA no later than at 1:00 p.m. (ET).

The onus is on the applicant to ensure their Outline Proposal is complete and that all documents are received by the CSA within the prescribed deadline. The CSA is not responsible for any delays under any circumstances, and will refuse Outline Proposals that are received after the stipulated deadline.

4.1.4 Service Standards – Outline Proposal

Applicants will be notified in writing of decisions about their project. Only applicants whose projects meet the eligibility criteria listed in section 5.1 will receive an invitation to submit a complete application. The CSA reserves the right to close the AO at any time or if it determines that the AO is fully subscribed.

  • Acknowledgement: The CSA's goal is to acknowledge receipt within five (5) business days of receiving the Outline Proposal.
  • Decision: The CSA's goal is to respond to the Outline Proposal within three (3) weeks of the reception.

4.2 Complete applications – Step 2

4.2.1 Required documentation

Applicants whose projects meet the eligibility criteria and have been invited to submit a complete application will need to provide the following documentation for formal point-rated project evaluation :

  • A completed original Application Form signed by the duly authorized representative;
  • One copy of full Proposal:
    • A description of the project that responds to the evaluation criteria in Appendix A;
    • An itemized and balanced budget for the project, indicating projected expenditures, cash flow requirements as well as confirmed and potential revenues and other sources of funds (in more details than is required in sections 3 and 4 of the Application Form);
    • The names, titles and telephone numbers of persons responsible for managing the project; and
    • The résumés of each team member responsible for managing the project and key technical personnel. The résumés should be limited to two pages with only information that is relevant to the application.
  • Letters of intent or launch service agreement;
  • Formally expressed interest of clients and/or relevant stakeholders (Letters of Interest, Memorandums of understanding [MOUs], Memorandums of agreement [MOAs], etc.);
  • A copy of the document(s) confirming the legal name of the applicant;
  • Letters from other funding contributors confirming their contributions, if applicable;
  • The Declaration on Confidentiality, Access to Information Act and Privacy Act form signed by the duly authorized representative (refer to the Applicant Declaration on Confidentiality, Access to Information Act and Privacy Act section included in the application form);
  • For organizations in Quebec, M-30 Supporting Documentation form completed and signed by the duly authorized representative (refer to the M-30 form for organizations in Quebec included in the application form);
  • If the project is executed through a partnership, a completed original Partner Application Form for each partner, signed by the duly authorized representative of the partner. Partner application forms are to be submitted in paper and in PDF.

The documents must be combined in a single PDF-formatted file, in the same order as presented above with all security features disabled. The application form and supporting documents must be included in the file as a searchable PDF-formatted document (PDF/A-1a format preferred). If there are any accessibility issues with the submitted PDF file, all consequences reside with the applicant.

It is the applicant's responsibility to ensure that the application complies with all relevant federal, provincial/territorial and municipal laws and regulations.

The applicant must keep one hard copy of all the original documents above. The CSA may require applicants who successfully passed the evaluation stage described in Section 5 of the AO to send a hard copy of their complete application with the original documents.

Company financial statements for the last two years and the most recent interim results will be requested, in a later phase of the evaluation process, as a condition to signing a contribution agreement. It is not required to submit financial statements with the application.

4.2.2 Submit the completed application electronically

  • Using the same account as was created in Step 1 – Outline proposal (section 4.2.1), use the Electronic Proposal Portal to submit the application.
  • In the "Proposal title" field of the Electronic Proposal Portal, please use the following formatting standard: STDP TECH DEMO STEP2_ Name Of Organization_Short project name (e.g. STDP_TECH DEMO STEP2_SpaceCompanyA_OpticalSensorDemonstration).
  • The "Applicant" section should contain the information for contact person listed in the application form.
  • Allow up to 72 hours for the CSA to send an email confirming the account creation as well as instructions (user guide) on how to access the platform. It is strongly recommended that the account creation request be submitted no later than .
  • Using the temporary password assigned by the CSA, login to the secured portal to upload protected documents.
  • Please refer to the user guide for instructions on how to securely upload documents.

Please note:

  • Applicants using the electronic portal are encouraged to create their account no later than , as technical difficulties may arise. If technical issues cannot be resolved, applicants must submit their application by mail. Applicants are strongly encouraged to upload their complete application well before the submission deadline;
  • Applications must be submitted (successfully uploaded) by the applicants no later than at 1:00 p.m. (ET).
  • The onus is on the applicant to ensure that their application is complete and that all documents are uploaded on the Electronic Proposal Portal within the prescribed deadline;
  • The CSA is not responsible for any delays under any circumstances, and will refuse applications that are received after the stipulated deadline;
  • Hand-delivered applications will not be accepted;
  • Applications sent by e-mail will not be accepted;
  • Applicants are asked to not send their application both electronically and by mail or courier service. If multiple applications are submitted, only the latest valid version received will be considered;
  • Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Questions and answers related to this AO will be posted on the CSA website in the Frequently Asked Questions (Section 10).

Complete Applications will be reviewed and evaluated in the order of reception and must reach CSA before 1:00 p.m. (ET),

4.2.3 How to submit an application by mail or using a recognized courier service

The applicant is encouraged to submit their application electronically following the instructions provided in Section 4.2.2 of the AO. However, if the applicant is unable to submit their application electronically, please communicate with pdts-stdp@asc-csa.gc.ca no later than at 1:00 p.m. (ET) to obtain instructions on how to submit a paper application by mail or using a recognized courier service.

Applications by mail or using a recognized courier service must be received at the CSA no later than at 1:00 p.m. (ET).

The onus is on the applicant to ensure that their application is complete and that all documents are received by the CSA within the prescribed deadline. The CSA is not responsible for any delays under any circumstances, and will refuse applications that are received after the stipulated deadline.

4.2.4 Service Standards

Applicants will be notified in writing of decisions regarding their application. Selected applications will be announced on the CSA website. The CSA has set the following service standards for processing times, acknowledgement of receipt, funding decisions and payment procedures.

  • Acknowledgement: The CSA's goal is to acknowledge receipt within five (5) business days of receiving the complete application package.
  • Decision: The CSA's goal is to respond to the proposal within twelve (12) weeks of the reception of the proposal date and to send a contribution agreement for signature within 4 (four) weeks after formal approval of the proposal.
  • Payment: The CSA's goal is to issue payment within six (6) weeks of the successful fulfillment of the requirements outlined in the contribution agreement.

Compliance with these service standards is a shared responsibility. Applicants must submit all required documentation in a timely fashion.

5. Evaluation of the application

In this section

5.1 Eligibility Criteria – Step 1

  • Represents an eligible recipient as defined in Section 3.1;
  • Represents an eligible project as defined in Sections 3.2, 3.3 and 3.4;
  • Meets the basic R&D definition in Section 3.5; and
  • Meets program funding provisions in Section 6.1.

5.2 Point Rated Evaluation Criteria – Step 2

Applications will be evaluated according to the following point rated criteria:

  1. Innovation and Need (20% of overall score)
  2. Project Feasibility, Resources and Risk Assessment (20% of overall score)
  3. Outcomes and Benefits (60% of overall score)

The definition of the criteria and scoring grid are specified in Appendix A.

5.3 Evaluation Process

Only applications that have passed the eligibility assessment listed in Section 5.1 will be given further consideration.

Once the eligibility criteria are confirmed, an individual evaluation of the screened applications will be performed according to the criteria listed in Section 5.2. Evaluators shall be familiar with the field relevant to the applications and may include representatives from other Canadian government departments as well as external consultants.

An application must receive an overall minimum score of 75% as well as the minimum specified thresholds for each criterion to be considered further for funding.

Before a final decision is made, the CSA's Program Manager responsible for this AO may seek input and advice from other organizations, including (but not limited to) federal, provincial, territorial and municipal government agencies and organizations.

The review panel will make an overall selection based on the evaluation results, priorities of the Government of Canada and the CSA, such as, but not limited to, regional distribution, representativeness of the four designated groups (women, indigenous people, members of visible minorities, and persons with disabilities), involvement of students in STEM, etc.

6. Funding

In this section

6.1 Available Funding and Duration

The total funding available under this AO is currently expected to be approximately $8M.

The maximum contribution for any project is $2M. The target duration for any project is 24-36 months. Please see section 7 for details.

The overall number of contributions awarded will depend on the availability of funds.

Approved proposals will be eligible for a total government (federal, provincial/territorial and municipal) assistance of up to a maximum of 75% of total eligible project costs. Thus, the maximum assistance of $ 2 million will be available for projects with $2.66 million of total eligible project costs.

To determine the amount of funding to be allocated, consideration will be given to the availability of CSA funds, the total cost of the project, and the other confirmed sources of funds provided by other stakeholders and the applicant.

Applicants must identify all sources of funding in their applications and confirm this information in a funding agreement if the project is selected for funding. Upon completion of a project, the recipient must also disclose all sources of funding.

The CSA reserves the right not to accept any proposals or to reduce the amount of the contributions at its entire discretion.

6.1 Eligible Costs

Eligible costs are direct expenses that are associated with the delivery of the approved project and that are required to achieve the expected results of the project. Expenses will be covered subject to the applicant signing a funding agreement in the form of a contribution with the CSA.

Eligible costs are limited to one or a combination of the following categories (see definitions):

  • acquisition or rental of equipment (not to exceed 20% of the total project eligible costs);
  • consultant services;
  • data acquisition;
  • data management;
  • laboratory analysis services;
  • material and supplies;
  • overhead (administrative) costs (not to exceed 15% of project eligible costs)
  • salaries and benefits (only the employee salary rates are authorized as admissible costs);
  • travel;
  • accommodation and meals allowances;
  • costs related to obtaining security clearance
  • publications and communications services in the case of Open Science (please see section 7.7)
  • aircraft and watercraft charter services (shipping);
  • access fees;
  • license and permits fees;
  • launcher services;
  • taxes for goods and services acquired in a foreign country net of any rebate or reimbursement received in the foreign country.

7. Funding Agreements

In this section

7.1 Payments

The CSA and each successful applicant (the recipient) will sign a funding agreement. This is a condition for any payment made by the CSA with respect to the approved project.

Payments for contribution agreements will be made in accordance with the process and the reporting requirements described in the signed funding agreement. Upon notice of a successful application, the CSA will have no liability until a funding agreement is signed by both parties. Only eligible costs incurred after the funding agreement is signed and indicated in the agreement will be reimbursed.

7.2 Audit

The recipient of a funding agreement shall keep proper records of all documentation related to the funded project, for the duration of the project and for six (6) years after the completion date of the project, in the event of an audit. This documentation shall be available upon request.

7.3 Conflict of Interest

In the funding agreement, the recipient will certify that any current or former public office holder or public servant it employs complies with the provisions of the relevant Conflict of Interest and Post-Employment Code for Public Office Holders and the Values and Ethics Code for the Public Sector respectively.

Note: Current employees of the CSA are not eligible to participate in any way in any application under this AO.

7.4 Intellectual Property

All intellectual property developed by the recipient in the course of the project shall vest in the recipient.

7.5 Organizations in Quebec

An organization in Quebec whose operations are partially or fully funded by the province of Quebec may be subject to the Act Respecting the Ministère du Conseil exécutif, R.S.Q., Chapter M-30.

Under Sections 3.11 and 3.12 of this Act, certain entities/organizations, as defined in the meaning of the Act, such as municipal bodies, school bodies, or public agencies, must obtain authorization from the Secrétariat du Québec aux relations canadiennes (SQRC), as indicated by the Act, before signing any funding agreement with the Government of Canada, its departments or agencies, or a federal public agency.

Consequently, any entity that is subject to the Act is responsible for obtaining such authorization before signing any funding agreement with the Government of Canada.

Quebec applicants must complete, sign and include the M-30 Supporting Documentation form with their application.

7.6 Performance Measurement

The CSA will ask the recipients to report on the following topics:

  • Knowledge Creation
    • Knowledge Production
      • Initial and Final Technology Readiness Level (TRL) achieved under the project
      • Number of technology breakthroughs
      • Achievements resulting from research
    • Number of scientific peer-reviewed publications
  • Capacity Building
    • Number of HQP (by gender) involved directly and indirectly in the project
    • Number of students involved during the project
    • Number of early-career professionals involved during the project
    • Number of technologies that are contenders for future missions
    • Number of technologies that are embarked on a mission *after project
    • Number of Canadian space technologies developed that are adapted for use on earth or re-used in space
  • Collaboration
    • Number of different organizations involved
  • Benefits generated by the Canadian Government support in the short to medium term (2-5 years) to be measured.
    • Return on Investment (ROI) that the government contribution has supported.
    • Success Stories in the sale/use of the developed technology
    • Evolution of the company and positioning in the world market

7.7 Open Science

The CSA wishes to promote the dissemination of findings that results from the projects it funds as quickly and to the greatest number of people as possible. Improved access to scientific results not only allows scientists to use a broader range of resources and knowledge, but also improves research collaboration and coordination, strengthens citizen engagement and supports the economy.

Thus, the CSA promotes the use of open access publication and archiving by recipients in order to facilitate the widest dissemination of findings that results from its funded projects. Thus, recipients are invited to publish, in a timely matter, their articles by using one of the following methods:

  1. Accessible online repository (institutional or disciplinary) so that the publication is freely accessible.
  2. Journal offering open access to articles.

The publication costs are eligible expenses as defined in section 6.2. It should be noted that these two methods are not mutually exclusive and that recipients are encouraged to use both.

Finally, the CSA wishes to receive, as a courtesy, a copy of the funded publications (if not freely accessible) or the hyperlink (if freely accessible) and its digital object identifier (DOI). These will be used to improve accessibility by including them in the CSA funded publications directory.

8. Privacy Notice Statement

The CSA manages and protects the information provided by the applicant under the Privacy Act and the Access to Information Act. By submitting your personal information, you consent to its collection, use and disclosure in accordance with the following Privacy Statement, which explains how the information about the applicant will be processed.

The information is collected under the CSA Class Grants and Contributions Program in Support of Awareness, Research and Learning - Research Component (ASC PPU 045) and Awareness and Learning Component (ASC PPU 040) . This information will be used for administration and application evaluation purposes. Personal information (such as name, contact information and biographical information) will be kept for 6 years and destroyed. According to the Privacy Act, any individual may, upon request,

  1. have access to his or her personal data and
  2. request correction of the incorrect information.

Applicants should also note that information relating to the Funding Agreement could be disclosed publicly in accordance with the laws, policies and directives of the Government of Canada.

For additional information regarding this statement, please contact:

Office of Access to Information and Privacy
Canadian Space Agency
Tel. : 450-926-4866
Email: asc.aiprp-atip.csa@canada.ca

9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

It is the responsibility of the applicants to obtain clarification of the requirements contained herein, if necessary, before submitting an application.

For any questions related to the AO, applicants shall use the following email address pdts-stdp@asc-csa.gc.ca. Questions and answers related to this AO will be posted on the CSA website in the Frequently Asked Questions section of this AO. The CSA will respond to questions received before 14:00 (ET), .

Question 1: Is it better to start an application such that the technology will be a strong TRL 6 by the point of issuing a funding agreement or to wait for development to be complete before applying and risk delaying the development timeline for the technology?

Answer 1: Eligible projects must have reached TRL6 at the beginning of the project, thus at the time a funding agreement is signed between CSA and the applicant. The outline proposal form specifically states that the technology must have achieved TRL-6 level at that time. It is the applicant’s responsibility to convincingly demonstrate the technology will have reached TRL-6 at the beginning of the project.

Question 2: We are developing an advanced space-based position, navigation, and timing (PNT) service. We seek to further develop the PNT payload through space-based demonstration. Would this development be eligible considering the following AO statement: "Eligible projects do not include Application development related to Earth Observation data, Satellite Telecommunications data, and Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) data as they are or will be supported through other funding opportunities."

Answer 2: Yes, the development of a payload to provide a PNT service would be considered eligible if the efforts are limited to the space component of the service. The areas of non-eligibility intended under the term "Application development" are end-user software-based applications built on the processing of Earth Observation data, Satellite Telecommunications data, and Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) data.

Question 3: Our company is interested in exploring this funding opportunity through the Canadian Space Agency. We are curious about the closing date of . Is this accurate or are there different "rounds" where applications will be accepted.

Answer 3: The closing date is valid. Outline Proposals and Complete Applications will be reviewed and evaluated on a continuous basis, in the order of reception until or until complete subscription of the total amount of the AO.

Question 4: As a private company, if we apply and are accepted into the program, we will be required to publish results in scientific journals? We prefer not to do this, as we need to commercially protect our IP (including technical processes and trade secrets) from prying eyes.

Answer 4: There is no requirement to publish scientific publications. The only requirement is to report the number produced.

10. Appendix A Point-Rated Evaluation Criteria

In this section

Application must receive an overall minimum score of 75% as well as minimum specified thresholds to be considered for funding. Obtaining the highest score possible maximizes your chance of being selected to obtain financial support (see Section 6). The following point-rated criteria will be evaluated using 4 benchmark statements. Each benchmark statement will receive the following percentage of maximum points according to the following scale:

  1. Poor: 25%
  2. Average: 50%
  3. Good: 75%
  4. Excellent: 100%

1. Innovation and Need (20% of overall score)

  • Maximum: 20 points
  • Minimum: 14 points (70%)

1.1 Degree of Innovation

  • Maximum: 5 points

This criterion evaluates the novelty associated with the new concepts, products and/or know-how to be demonstrated. Innovation can range from sustaining innovations that improve the performance of existing products (but do not create new markets) to disruptive innovations that offer an entirely different value proposition leading to the creation of new markets. This criterion seeks answers to the following:

  • What is the degree of innovation being proposed?
Poor:

There is little or no innovation being applied to the demonstration of the proposed concepts, products or know-how.

Average:

A moderate level of innovation is being applied that will lead to the demonstration of improved performance of existing concepts, products and/or know-how.

Good:

A high level of innovation is being applied that will lead to the demonstration of leading-edge concepts, products and/or know-how.

Excellent:

The level of innovation is transformative and will lead to the demonstration of new concepts, products and/or know-how for new markets.

1.2 Market Assessment / Scientific Needs

  • Maximum: 15 points

This criterion evaluates the applicant's understanding of the market needs OR scientific needs associated with the proposed technology. It includes a thorough analysis of market demand OR a thorough analysis of the underlying scientific question it addresses, why it's important to address it, who are the pertinent stakeholders interested in the outcomes and their level of influence. Incidentally, this criterion also evaluates whether the proposal addresses the existence and number of competing alternatives on the market. This criterion seeks answers to the following:

  • Is the applicant aware of its current market share or of the underlying scientific question it addresses?
  • What are the factors that drive the demand for this technology?
  • Who are the potential customers or stakeholders for this technology?
  • Who are the potential competitors and what alternatives do they offer?
Poor:

The applicant is not aware of the current market OR does not provide scientific needs analysis pertaining to the technology being demonstrated and the many competitive alternatives already existing on the market. The proposal does not identify the factors that drive demand for this technology and the relevant customers/stakeholders and competitors. The proposal does not present a strategy for competing with the alternatives.

Average:

The applicant has limited knowledge of the current market OR provides a limited scientific needs analysis pertaining to the technology being demonstrated. Some competitive alternatives exist in the market. The proposal identifies some of the factors that drive demand for this technology being demonstrated, but does not identify the relevant customers/stakeholders and competitors. The proposal provides an insufficient plan for competing with the alternatives.

Good:

The applicant has a good understanding of the current market share OR provides a comprehensive scientific needs analysis pertaining to the technology being demonstrated. A limited number of competitive alternatives exist on the market. The proposal identifies an extensive list of factors that drive demand for this technology and the relevant customers/stakeholders and competitors. The proposal provides a detailed plan for competing with those alternatives.

Excellent:

The applicant demonstrates an in-depth understanding of the current market share OR provides a detailed and convincing scientific needs analysis pertaining to the technology being demonstrated. Very few or no competitive alternatives exist on the market. The proposal clearly identifies all the factors that drive demand for this technology and the relevant customers/stakeholders and competitors. The proposal provides a comprehensive and convincing plan for competing with any alternatives.

2. Project Feasibility, Resources and Risk Assessment (20% of overall score)

2.1 Project clarity, completeness, feasibility and risk assessment

  • Maximum: 20 points
  • Minimum: 14 points (70%)

This criterion evaluates the completeness and effectiveness of the proposed implementation plan in directing the project to successful completion as well as the combined technical qualifications and experience of the team assembled to carry out the proposed work.

This criterion seeks answers to the following:

  • Does the combined team have the necessary technical/scientific and managerial qualifications to execute the project?
  • Does the proposal include a clear and complete implementation plan consisting of a Work Breakdown Structure (WBS), detailed Work Package Descriptions (WPD), schedule, milestones, resource (personnel, facilities, laboratories, field sites, specialized equipment, etc.) availability and allocation as well as risk identification and mitigation?
  • Does the proposed implementation plan seem credible and well suited to the project objectives, and does it embody sound methodology and management and is it coherent with the degree of maturity of the technology as well as the launch service provider by the forecasted flight readiness review date, in order to demonstrate capability?
Poor:

The implementation plan is poorly defined, incomplete or difficult to understand. There is a high likelihood that the objectives will not be met due to inappropriate methodology, technical team, budget, schedule, key risks or availability of resources. The technology being demonstrated will not be ready by the forecasted flight readiness review date and demonstration flight.

Average:

The implementation plan is somewhat defined but lacks details or clarity. Doubts remain regarding the technical methodology of the proposed work, qualifications of the technical team, the likelihood that the objectives will be met or the forecasted flight readiness review date or demonstration flight.

Good:

The implementation plan is complete and well defined. The proposed methodology seems adequately suited for the proposed work to be carried out and the technical team has worked with closely related technologies. The expectation that the proposed work will meet the set objectives and be completed on schedule and within budget is credible. The technology being demonstrated should be ready by the forecasted flight readiness review date and demonstration flight.

Excellent:

The implementation plan is complete, very well defined and coherent. The methodology described is logical and well suited for the proposed work to be carried out. The proposed team possesses all the qualifications and experience required to perform the proposed work. The likelihood that the proposed work will meet the set objectives and be completed on schedule and within budget is high and the technology being demonstrated will be clearly ready by the forecasted flight readiness review date and demonstration flight.

3. Outcomes and Benefits (60% of overall score)

  • Maximum: 60 points
  • Minimum: 42 points (70%)

3.1 Path to Commercial or Scientific Opportunity

  • Maximum: 20 points

Projects should strive to generate economic benefits or scientific opportunities in the short to medium term, within 2 to 5 years following project completion.

This criterion evaluates the applicant's roadmap to achieving commercial or scientific opportunities. This criterion seeks answers to the following:

  • Does the applicant have a post-project strategy, with expected budget and schedule, to finalize the development of the technology in order to achieve commercial results?
  • Or, does the applicant have a post-project strategy, with expected budget and schedule, to have the technology part of a scientific payload for an eventual scientific mission in space?
  • What are the opportunities to re-use the technology in space or on Earth?
Poor:

No relevant future missions have been identified for this technology. The proposal provides a poor or no post-project strategy to finalize the development of the technology for commercial or scientific opportunities.

Average:

The proposal somewhat identifies relevant future space missions targeted for this technology. The proposal provides an average post-project strategy with limited information on budget, schedule and sources of funding to finalize the development of the technology for commercial or scientific opportunities.

Good:

The proposal identifies relevant future space missions targeted for this technology. The proposal provides a good post-project strategy with information on budget, schedule and sources of funding to finalize the development of the technology for commercial or scientific opportunities. The proposal demonstrates some potential to re-use the technology in space or on Earth.

Excellent:

The proposal clearly identifies relevant future space missions targeted for this technology. The proposal provides an excellent post-project strategy with clear information on budget, schedule and sources of funding to finalize the development of the technology for commercial or scientific opportunities. The proposal demonstrates clear opportunities to also re-use the technology in space or on Earth.

3.2 Benefits / outcomes of demonstration

  • Maximum: 40 points

Projects should strive to generate economic benefits or scientific opportunities in the short to medium term, within 2 to 5 years following project completion.

This criterion evaluates the suitability of, and benefits (value) in performing a demonstration of the proposed technology in space.

Note :

Commercial opportunities should be characterized in terms of competitive advantage and/or overall market share. It is recognized that an improvement in the applicant's overall market share (or competitive advantage) can be achieved through creating a new market, penetrating for the first time an existing one and/or increasing one's position in an already accessed market.

Scientific opportunities should be characterized in terms of potential for integrating the technology in a scientific payload for an eventual scientific mission in space.

This criterion seeks to answer the following questions:

  • What is the value and impact of performing a demonstration of the proposed technology?
  • What impact will the project have on the applicant's growth in terms of size (workforce) and revenue ?
  • What are the anticipated socio-economic benefits/impacts from this demonstration?
  • Do the benefits of this demonstration outweigh the costs?
Poor:

The proposed project is unlikely to improve the applicant's competitive advantage and overall growth in terms of revenue and size OR will not lead to any opportunity for integrating the technology in a scientific payload for an eventual scientific mission in space. The benefits of the results attained from the demonstration do not outweigh the costs of the project.

Average:

The proposed project is likely to improve the applicant's competitive advantage and is likely to have an impact on the applicant's growth in terms of revenue and size OR is likely to lead to at least one opportunity for integrating the technology in a scientific payload for an eventual scientific mission in space. The benefits of the results attained from the demonstration are equivalent to the costs of the project.

Good:

The proposed project will improve the applicant's competitive advantage and is likely to have an impact on the applicant's growth in terms of revenue and size OR will lead to some opportunities for integrating the technology in a scientific payload for an eventual scientific mission in space. The benefits of the results attained from the demonstration outweigh the costs of the project.

Excellent:

The proposed project will substantially improve the applicant's competitive advantage and overall growth in terms of revenue and size OR will lead to many opportunities for integrating the technology in a scientific payload for an eventual scientific mission in space. The proposal includes formally expressed interest of clients and/or relevant stakeholders (Letters of Interest, Memorandums of understanding [MOUs], Memorandums of agreement [MOAs], etc.). The benefits of the results attained from the demonstration far outweigh the costs of the project.

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