International Astronautical Congress (IAC) 2026

Event type: Trade show

Date: October 5 to 9, 2026

Location: Antalya, Türkiye

Venue: NEST Convention Centre

Industry: Aerospace, Defence and security, Information and communications technologies

Registration deadline: September 25, 2026

Who should apply:

Canadian companies in the space industry with export capabilities 

Event description

International Astronautical Congress (IAC) 2026 in Antalya offers a unique platform for advancing Canada-Türkiye commercial and industrial cooperation in the space sector.

The conference is an opportunity to position Canadian companies within Türkiye’s rapidly expanding space ecosystem, where the Turkish Space Agency (TUA) and SAHA Istanbul are driving ambitious programs in satellite production, lunar exploration, and astronaut training.

The event will allow targeted recruitment of Canadian firms interested in partnerships on advanced space technologies, components, and R&D collaborations. It also provides a venue to align Canadian participation with Türkiye’s strategic priorities, including the National Space Program and the establishment of a Space Technology Development Zone.

Beyond business development, IAC 2026 will serve as a high-level engagement platform to reinforce Canada-Türkiye cooperation in aerospace and defence industries. Meetings with Turkish government stakeholders, industry clusters, and research institutions will help Canadian companies gain visibility and access to procurement opportunities. This congress also builds on momentum from recent bilateral engagements such as the Joint Economic and Trade Committee (JETCO), SAHA Expo 2026, and the NATO Summit, ensuring continuity in Canada’s positioning within Türkiye’s innovation and defence ecosystem.

The Trade Commissioner Service (TCS) will coordinate with the Canadian Space Agency for the recruitment and service delivery of Canadian companies through a  business-to-business (B2B) and business-to-government (B2G) program. 

Registration

To participate in the TCS program, contact Pierre-Alexandre Carrier (pierre-alexandre.carrier@international.gc.ca), Trade Commissioner for Aerospace and Defence at the Embassy of Canada to Türkiye.   

Benefits of participating

  • Gain insights and market intelligence
  • Develop a first-hand understanding of the opportunities and challenges of doing business in foreign markets
  • Meet key commercial entities, industry players, and potential buyers, investors and/or partners
  • Meet academic or research entities
  • Participate in pre-organized business-to-business meetings
  • Receive on-the-ground assistance from the Trade Commissioner Service
  • Compare your product/service with international competitors
  • Pitch your product /service to selected audiences
  • Receive mentoring and coaching

How the program works

  • Business-to-business (B2B) matchmaking: The TCS organizes curated B2B meetings, connecting Canadian companies with international partners, investors, and clients to explore new business opportunities.
  • Networking opportunities: Join TCS-hosted networking sessions to connect with key industry players, government representatives, and global leaders, fostering collaborations that support international growth.

Contact us

Pierre-Alexandre Carrier

Trade Commissioner
pierre-alexandre.carrier@international.gc.ca

Additional Information

Date published:

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