Join us at Founders Lunch as we unpack what dual use really means and how startups can thoughtfully approach it as part of their strategy. Canada’s dual‑use opportunity is growing — but the path isn’t obvious for founders. At this Founders Lunch, discover how the Aerospace Innovation Hub (AIH) at Innovate Calgary helps companies identify dual‑use potential, connect with the right industry players, and navigate aerospace and defence markets without losing focus on their core business. Hosted in collaboration with AIH, this session explores how technologies originally built for commercial markets are increasingly finding applications in defence and aerospace — and how startups can pursue these opportunities thoughtfully and strategically. Through AIH’s deep industry network, experienced mentors, and direct connections to government, primes, and sector leaders, founders gain practical guidance to move from curiosity to credible engagement in the dual‑use ecosystem. As dual‑use innovation accelerates in Canada and globally, founders are uncovering new ways to: • Diversify revenue streams • Access non‑traditional customers and capital • Build resilient, long‑term growth pathways At the same time, entering this space raises important strategic considerations. In this discussion, we’ll unpack: • How to spot dual‑use potential within your product or roadmap • When it makes sense to pursue defence or aerospace applications • What founders should know about funding, partnerships, and long‑term growth Whether you’re already exploring dual‑use pathways or just beginning to consider them, this session will provide practical insights from ecosystem leaders and founders actively working in this space. Panelists: • Elliot Hewitt, Manager, Defence & Aerospace Initiatives (Alberta Region) at Prairies Economic Development Canada • Craig T. Johansen - Professor & SSE Research Chair in Aerospace Engineering at UCalgary | Co-Founder, Executive Chairman & CSO at North Vector Dynamics • Abdul Mohamed, Co-founder & CEO at QuantaSense; Member, Aerospace Innovation Hub (AIH) • Mike Attersall, Associate Director, Aerospace Innovation Hub at Innovate Calgary (moderator) More speakers to be announced soon.