Bringing CRIM’s and INO’s operations together will make it possible to accelerate the adoption of optics-photonics, quantum and artificial intelligence technologies by Canadian businesses.

QUÉBEC, Feb. 20, 2026 /CNW/ - Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions (CED)

Quantum and optics-photonics technologies play a strategic role in the transformation and competitiveness of Canadian businesses. Combined with artificial intelligence and data science, these advanced technologies represent a major driver for our economy’s growth and resilience.

In this perspective, the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for CED, is announcing the Government of Canada’s intention to provide up to $52 million to support the operations of Luqia Technologies, an industrial innovation laboratory that will meet the needs identified by the industry in these strategic fields, as well as facilitate the marketing of cutting-edge technologies among Quebec and Canadian businesses, in particular small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

By combining their expertise and infrastructure to create Luqia Technologies, the National Optics Institute (INO) and the Computer Research Institute of Montréal (CRIM) will benefit from a larger, more diverse network and will be able to provide enhanced services to SMEs. Creating Luqia Technologies will make it possible to consolidate a centre of excellence serving businesses and foster the establishment of industrial partnerships. As such, businesses will accelerate the development and marketing of high-value-added technological solutions for national and international markets in different industrial sectors in Canada.

The Government of Canada’s support is conditional on the project being assessed based on CED’s program criteria and parameters, as well as on the signing of a contribution agreement between CED and Luqia Technologies.

Quotes

“Today, the Government of Canada is reaffirming its commitment to growing our economy, as well as to strengthening the security and resilience of Canadian businesses. Luqia Technologies will provide businesses with integrated guidance to accelerate the commercialization of strategic technologies and foster the creation of high-value-added jobs. In the coming years, Luqia Technologies’ operations could help increase Canadian innovation in defence and dual-use applications, a pillar of our Defence Industrial Strategy.”

The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Member of Parliament for Ahuntsic–Cartierville, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for CED

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“In a context of global uncertainty, our government is making a clear choice to assist Canadian SMEs and the technological organizations that support them, such as Luqia Technologies. In addition, our Buy Canadian policy and defence procurement strategy place SMEs at the centre of Government of Canada procurements, thereby helping Canada to become more autonomous, stimulating local innovation and creating quality jobs across the country.”

The Honourable Joël Lightbound, Member of Parliament for Louis-Hébert, Minister of Government Transformation, Public Works and Procurement and Quebec Lieutenant

“Our government is committed to creating a strong economy and to helping Quebec and Canadian businesses to innovate and access new markets, including defence. I am therefore delighted that the Government of Canada is making a commitment to support operations at Luqia Technologies, a strategic asset to boost homegrown businesses.”

The Honourable Jean-Yves Duclos, Member of Parliament for Québec-Centre

“Creating Luqia—made possible thanks, among other things, to an investment by Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions—will enable us, through the synergy between artificial intelligence and photonics, to work in collaboration with Canadian and Quebec businesses to transform key sectors such as health, manufacturing, defence, aerospace and agri-food, while also laying the foundations for future quantum and integrated photonics innovations. From Day 1, Luqia represents a powerful driver to increase productivity, reduce costs and strengthen Canada’s technological future.”

Alain Chandonnet, President and CEO, Luqia Technologies

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