Evaluation of the Strategic Aerospace and Defence Initiative

4.0 Conclusions and Recommendations

4.1 Relevance

Regarding relevance of the program, the evaluation determined that:

• SADI addresses a continued need for R&D financing for aerospace firms and high-tech SMEs.
• SADI reached a small proportion of A&D firms. This is because of external factors (i.e., the economic recession), various elements of the program design, and limited awareness of the program;
• SADI is aligned with the priorities of the federal government and the strategic outcomes of Industry Canada; and
• SADI is aligned with the federal government's role and responsibilities.

4.2 Performance

Regarding the effectiveness of the program, the evaluation determined that:

• SADI helped increase or accelerate R&D spending among recipients;
• There has been some increase in collaboration with post-secondary institutions that can be attributed to SADI; and
• While the full results will not be known for a few years, SADI projects have already resulted in development and commercialization of products, services and processes.

Regarding the efficiency of the program, the evaluation determined that:

• While meeting the service standard, the application process was perceived as onerous and lengthy; and
• The overall efficiency of SADI improved consistently year over year.

4.3 Recommendations

The conclusions of the evaluation lead to the following recommendations.

1. ITO should consider identifying additional ways to streamline the end-to-end application process;
2. ITO should consider examining whether changes in program design are required to improve uptake, particularly to attract SMEs and enhance collaboration; and
3. ITO should consider building greater awareness of the program, especially among SMEs.