CME Launches National Roundtables to Boost Canadian Manufacturers' Defence Sector Access
Event summary
- Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters (CME) is launching a national roundtable series on defence opportunities for Canadian manufacturers, starting May 28, 2026.
- The roundtables are held in collaboration with EY Canada and RBC, focusing on strengthening Canada's defence industrial base and supporting manufacturers in accessing new procurement and supply chain opportunities.
- CME Defence, launched earlier in 2026, aims to help manufacturers navigate Canada's evolving Defence Industrial Strategy and position themselves for growth in the sector.
- Discussion topics include navigating defence procurement, building manufacturing capacity, strengthening supply chains, and scaling up financing for defence readiness.
The big picture
Canada's Defence Industrial Strategy is creating new opportunities for domestic manufacturers, but fragmentation and complexity in supply chains remain significant barriers. CME's roundtable series aims to bridge these gaps by fostering collaboration between industry leaders, government, and financial partners. The initiative reflects a broader trend of public-private partnerships aimed at strengthening national defence capabilities through targeted industrial support.
What we're watching
- Industry Alignment
- How effectively CME Defence can align its efforts with industry priorities to support manufacturers in the defence sector.
- Supply Chain Integration
- The pace at which Canadian manufacturers can integrate into defence procurement and supply chains through these roundtables.
- Financing Scaling
- Whether the roundtables will facilitate scalable financing solutions for manufacturers aiming to expand in the defence market.