The federal government should “significantly increase” funding for semiconductor R&D, and buy chips for its own use that are designed or made in Canada, the consortium said. It also called for Ottawa to subsidize the construction of hardware manufacturing and packaging facilities, and designate them as “major projects.” (The Logic)

Talking point: Access to chips can make or break tech companies, manufacturers and militaries. The four organizations in the consortium argue Canada needs its own semiconductor capabilities so that it’s not cut off from the global flow, and to support the country’s bid for digital sovereignty. But semiconductor fabs can cost billions, and some promising Canadian chip startups have either sold up or moved. Consortium members include the Information and Communications Technology Council, a think tank; Canada’s Semiconductor Council, a lobby group; and CMC Microsystems and VentureLab, both of which help founders commercialize new hardware.