Strategic Partnership Agreement Finalized to Boost Semiconductor Investment and Growth: CSC and Invest Ottawa

On February 26, 2026, the Canada’s Semiconductor Council (CSC) and Invest Ottawa formalized their collaboration through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at enhancing the semiconductor industry in Canada, particularly in Ottawa. This partnership is intended to boost investment, facilitate business growth, and solidify Ottawa's position within the expanding semiconductor ecosystem in Canada.

The timing of this MOU is significant, as global supply chains are being restructured and competition for investment in advanced technologies is on the rise. CSC has established itself as a vital component for national coordination in the semiconductor sector, providing expertise and connecting local companies with global networks. This initiative will allow CSC to direct semiconductor and related technology companies looking to expand to Invest Ottawa’s resources, ensuring that these businesses can leverage Ottawa's innovation and commercialization assets.

Key components of the MOU include regular coordination meetings between CSC and Invest Ottawa to identify emerging opportunities and streamline outreach efforts. Additionally, both organizations will work to enhance the visibility of initiatives and announcements that promote the regional and national semiconductor ecosystem.

Paul Slaby, Managing Director of the CSC, emphasized the importance of this partnership in positioning Canada to effectively compete for strategic semiconductor investments. Canada possesses substantial capabilities in sectors such as artificial intelligence chips, photonics, sensors, and defense applications. By collaborating with Invest Ottawa, CSC aims to create clearer pathways for global semiconductor companies to engage with opportunities in the capital region.

Invest Ottawa serves as the primary economic development agency for knowledge-based industries in Ottawa, with a focus on propelling economic growth and job creation. The agency has made significant contributions to the local economy, having supported thousands of companies, secured nearly $1 billion in capital, and facilitated the creation of over 11,000 jobs through various programs related to venture development, global expansion, and talent acquisition.

Jens-Michael Schaal, Vice President of Global Expansion at Invest Ottawa, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, underscoring Ottawa’s historical significance as a hub for advanced semiconductor design, telecommunications, and defense technologies. He reaffirmed that the partnership would enhance the agency's ability to attract global investors, providing them access to the expertise, infrastructure, and talent essential for leveraging Ottawa’s competitive advantages.

The overarching goal of both organizations is to bolster Canada’s semiconductor sector, ensuring it becomes a leading player in global semiconductor research, design, and manufacturing. By reinforcing domestic supply chain resiliency and focusing on commercialization and innovation, CSC aims to establish Canada as a pivotal player in the digital economy.

In summary, this collaboration is not just a local initiative but an essential part of a broader national strategy to support the growth and sustainability of Canada's semiconductor industry amidst evolving global dynamics. Through this MOU, CSC and Invest Ottawa aim to enhance Canada's position as a competitive powerhouse in the semiconductor market, fostering a robust ecosystem that benefits the economy and job creation in Ottawa and beyond.