Minister of Industry Invests $6 Million
in Local BC Technology Company

The Honourable Tony Clement, Minister of Industry, has demonstrated the Canadian government's commitment to stimulating the Canadian economy through investments in innovation. Today, he announced a repayable investment in Norsat International Inc. (Norsat) to research and develop the next generation of portable ground satellite telecommunications technologies.

"These technologies are going to help military personnel, emergency response teams and disaster recovery missions communicate better during a crisis," said Minister Clement. "They are also going to help Norsat develop a better project. This investment demonstrates the government's commitment to promoting excellence and accelerating innovation in Canada's aerospace and defence industries."

"In the recent Speech from the Throne, the Government of Canada recognized the strategic importance of the Canadian manufacturing sector and the challenging financial conditions and global competitiveness it faces," Minister Clement added. "That is why we are implementing specific measures to strengthen these industries."

$6MM for ground-based satellite technology
This funding will help Norsat's improve its technical capabilities in several ways. Norsat's R&D activities include developing components that allow ground satellite systems to operate reliably over significant temperature ranges and in extreme environmental conditions, examining flat antenna technologies to increased satellite system portability, and integrating automatic control consoles that make it possible for non-technical users to operate ground-based satellite equipment. Under this project funding, Norsat will also design products that operate over wireless communications networks.

Amiee Chan, President and CEO of Norsat
Amiee Chan, recent named Turnaround Entrepreneur Of The Year by Pacific Ernst & Young said, "This partnership with the federal government is key for Norsat because it enables us to pursue the R&D necessary to enhance and expand our product portfolio, furthering the technology leadership of our portable satellite terminals," said Dr. Amiee Chan, President and CEO of Norsat.

Federal Support is important to all of us
Advances in science and technology are essential to strengthening the competitiveness of Canada's economy. This investment in R&D undertaken by Norsat demonstrates the Government of Canada's commitment to set the right conditions for business innovation, promoting prosperity for all Canadians.

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