Calgary’s aerospace community is on the rise, and among the innovators leading the charge is Colin Hill, co-founder and CTO of North Vector Dynamics. His company is one of two startups selected for the inaugural Aerospace Accelerator Program (AAP), a new initiative housed within the Aerospace Innovation Hub at Innovate Calgary.
A defence tech startup with a sharp focus on counter unmanned aerial systems (counter-UAS), North Vector Dynamics is tackling one of today’s most urgent security challenges: militarized consumer drones. As seen in recent global conflicts, low-cost drones are increasingly used in military settings—posing a serious threat to traditional air defence systems, which are often too expensive or slow to respond.
“The biggest challenge is the cost asymmetry,” Hill explains. “You’ve got drones that cost a few hundred dollars being countered by multi-million-dollar missiles. We’re trying to level the playing field.”
North Vector Dynamics’ approach is unique. Rather than relying on jamming or electronic warfare like many in the space, the company is developing a mobile air-launched system using low-cost effectors mounted on vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) drones. This mobility allows rapid deployment and adaptability in a variety of operational settings—making their solution both innovative and practical.
Hill, who recently completed a PhD in hybrid rocketry at the University of Calgary, co-founded the company with colleagues from his graduate research lab. “The technical problem-solving skills from my academic work definitely carried over,” he says, though he emphasizes that starting a company brings a whole new learning curve.
That’s where the Aerospace Accelerator Program (AAP) has played a vital role.
North Vector Dynamics is one of the first two companies selected for the AAP, a new initiative within the Aerospace Innovation Hub at Innovate Calgary. Backed by Calgary Economic Development’s Opportunity Calgary Investment Fund, PrairiesCan, and industry partners including WestJet, the Calgary Airport Authority, and Chapter AI Ventures, the AAP is designed to help early-stage aerospace companies take off—with serious backing.
Founders selected for the AAP receive up to $200,000 in grant funding, including salary support for one founder, plus individualized mentorship, technical development resources, and access to equipment, office space, and a vibrant community at the Aerospace Innovation Hub.
Hill says the support has been transformative.
“Being part of the accelerator has been invaluable—especially coming straight out of grad school. It’s not just the funding, it’s the guidance on everything from protecting our IP and hiring to seeking investment and growing a business,” he says. “The program brings together people facing similar challenges, so you’re not building in isolation.”
The Aerospace Accelerator Program is part of Innovate Calgary’s broader push to grow the city’s aerospace sector by supporting emerging companies and connecting them with the resources they need. For Hill, this ecosystem has offered more than just funding and advice—it’s created a sense of community. “There’s a great networking effect,” he adds. “It brings together other entrepreneurs at a similar stage, facing similar challenges. You don’t feel like you’re figuring it all out alone.”
The Aerospace Innovation Hub, built in partnership with the University of Calgary, is quickly becoming a focal point for aerospace and advanced manufacturing in the city. For Hill, it’s the right place at the right time.
“There’s real momentum here,” he says. “You’ve got talent coming out of the university, big players like De Havilland setting up shop, and a wave of startups doing exciting things. Aerospace is still early in Calgary, but that just means there’s a lot of opportunity.”
As North Vector Dynamics prepares for its seed funding round, Hill sees the company’s journey as part of a bigger story unfolding in Calgary. “Aerospace is still in its early stages here, but there’s a lot of talent and momentum,” he says. “It’s a very exciting time to be part of it.”
Apply to the Aerospace Accelerator Program (AAP). The application deadline is September 30, 2025. Learn more.