February 20, 2026 -- As part of a provincial package investing more than $46.6 million in eight projects, PacifiCan is providing funding to five research infrastructure initiatives – two at SFU and three at UBC – that will help B.C. companies bring breakthrough technologies to market more quickly.

One SFU initiative will establish a regional-scale quantum communications network designed to help B.C. companies proactively address emerging cybersecurity challenges as quantum computing capabilities advance. Developed in collaboration with leading industry and research partners, the Vancouver Quantum Network will serve as a foundational piece of critical infrastructure that positions British Columbia as a global leader in secure quantum communications.

The funding will also support the creation of a secure, high-performing computing network led by SFU to train artificial intelligence (AI) models and process sensitive data for both defence and civilian uses. This will help accelerate AI-driven innovation for national security and position Canada to scale up essential defence technologies.

“This investment accelerates SFU’s work to translate world-class research into solutions that keep people, data and critical infrastructure secure,” says Dugan O’Neil, SFU’s, Vice-President, Research & Innovation. “The funding will support advances in quantum and artificial intelligence technologies in partnership with industry and government partners, to position B.C. and Canada at the forefront of innovation and cybersecurity.”

The SFU-led investments will enhance critical infrastructure, deepen collaboration with industry and research partners, and create new opportunities for students and researchers to translate discovery into real-world solutions that support Canada’s security and economic resilience.

“British Columbians have the talent, innovation, and expertise to help protect Canada and our Allies,” says The Honourable Gregor Robertson, Minister of Housing and Infrastructure and Minister responsible for PacifiCan.

“By investing in research infrastructure and helping businesses scale up, we're ensuring B.C. companies can seize defence opportunities while building prosperity for British Columbians and Canadians.”