France Semiconductors and Quantum Control Stack Canadian Technology Accelerator – Special Edition

Are you developing a technology that is ready for commercialization in the semiconductor or quantum technology sector? This special edition of the Canadian Technology Accelerator (CTA) can help you explore opportunities in France and elsewhere in Europe.

France offers Canadian companies access to:

• major industrial clients
• research and development (R&D) centres
• prototyping facilities 
• partners integrated into European supply chains

It can serve as an entry market and help facilitate the development of partnerships across Europe.

France and the European Union consider semiconductors and quantum technologies to be strategic sectors. Their policies are aimed at strengthening European capabilities in the following areas:

• design 
• manufacturing
• prototyping 
• integration of advanced components 

France stands out in terms of the presence of major sectors that rely on advanced technologies, including:

• automotive
• aerospace
• space
• defence
• energy
• telecommunications 

These companies are particularly focused on improving:

• performance
• security
• energy efficiency
• the computing capacity of their products and infrastructures 

Many of these companies operate across Europe. A partnership established in France can therefore help facilitate access to other European markets.

Since 2021, France’s national quantum strategy has supported the development of quantum technologies and related fields, including:

• photonics
• quantum sensors 
• secure communications 
• control electronics 
• advanced components

This ecosystem may offer opportunities for Canadian companies developing specialized technologies.

An initial commercial relationship, pilot project, or industrial partnership secured in France can help your company explore other European markets, including:

• Germany
• Belgium
• Italy
• Netherlands
• Nordic countries

This presence can also help you better understand European market requirements and build relationships with local partners.

The program offers you:

• personalized mentoring provided by French experts in semiconductors and quantum technologies
• market intelligence to help you tailor your marketing strategy
• meetings with potential clients, partners, and investors
• access to the Trade Commissioner Service’s global network
• workshops and training sessions tailored to your needs
• targeted business-to-business (B2B) meetings in Paris and Grenoble

We are seeking growth-oriented Canadian businesses developing technologies in the following areas:

• photonics
• micro‑electromechanical systems (MEMS) 
• compound semiconductors
• qubit‑interface hardware — that is, the full set of equipment used to generate, transmit, condition, and measure the signals required for qubit control and readout, including sources, electronics, interconnects, and connectors. 

Your company must: 

• offer a validated technology that has reached a technology readiness level of 6-9
• provide a technology that stands out in the market
• generate recurring revenue or have secured at least $1 million in funding
• ave an experienced management team ready to participate fully in the program
• have clear objectives and a defined strategy for entering the French or European markets
• have identified potential clients or partners 

The Trade Commissioner Service supports equity, diversity, and inclusion in commerce. We strongly encourage companies led by Canadians from all backgrounds to apply.

This hybrid program features both online and in-person activities in Paris and Grenoble, including: 

• orientation sessions
• personalized mentoring
• market intelligence
• networking activities and roundtables with sector experts
• support tailored to your business development objectives
• targeted meetings with potential clients, partners, and investors

The CTA Special Edition will provide Canadian companies with access to new international ecosystems beyond the program’s established global innovation hubs, supporting early engagement in high-potential markets. These one-time programs are designed to accelerate global growth by connecting companies with local industry leaders, partners, and investors.