Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about CADSI membership

What are the eligibility requirements for CADSI membership?

Corporate membership is open to companies with registered Canadian legal entities and active defence and security operations in Canada.

Associate plans are open to organizations whose purpose is consistent with CADSI’s mandate and whose business includes defence and/or security, but do not qualify for corporate membership.

What's the difference between Corporate and Associate membership types?

Corporate membership is for Canadian private-sector companies actively engaged in the defence and security industry, with full access to all member benefits.

Associate membership is for aligned organizations—academic, media, Canadian, and international—supporting the sector. Associate members are not permitted to exhibit at CANSEC, participate on CADSI’s Board or Committees, or vote in the Annual General Meeting.

Learn more about plans and pricing with a complete comparison of membership types.

How do I know which membership tier is right for my organization?

Corporate membership tiers are based on your organization’s total global employee count, including all subsidiaries and business lines.

How are Corporate membership fees calculated?

Corporate membership fees are based on the total number of employees within your organization’s ownership group worldwide, including all subsidiaries and business lines. Fees range from $1,070 (1–4 employees) to $11,250 (500+ employees) annually.

Can companies that are not registered in Canada become CADSI members?

Yes. International companies can join under the International Associate category ($5,630/year). This membership connects your organization to Canada’s defence and security industry and supports your business development in the Canadian market.

Are there payment plans available for membership fees?

Membership fees are billed annually and are non-refundable, non-transferable, and not prorated. Payment by credit card or invoice is accepted.

How long does the membership application process take?

Most applications are reviewed and approved within 1–5 business days. CADSI validates each applicant’s eligibility and company information before processing payment.

What information do I need to provide in my application?

You’ll be asked to provide your company’s legal name, registration details, total employee count, a short business description, your key contact(s), and confirmation of defence/security involvement. A checklist is available during the application process.

Can I access benefits immediately after applying?

You can create your myCADSI account and access basic features right away. Full membership benefits are activated once your application is approved and payment is confirmed.

What happens if my application is not approved?

If your application doesn’t meet CADSI’s membership criteria, our team will contact you to explain why and, when possible, recommend alternative ways to engage. No fees are charged for unapproved applications.

Can all employees from my organization access membership benefits?

Yes. CADSI membership applies to your entire organization. Any employee can create a myCADSI account and access member-exclusive resources, events, and tools.

Can CADSI perform business development on my behalf?

No. CADSI does not act as an intermediary or broker. However, we connect members to business opportunities by providing platforms for you to connect with partners and customers.

Will CADSI make sure I win contracts?

No. CADSI does not participate in procurement processes or guarantee contracts. Our role is to advocate for fair, transparent, and accessible opportunities for the Canadian defence and security industry.

Will CADSI introduce procurement officers to me?

CADSI facilitates networking opportunities where you can engage directly with decision-makers, including at CANSEC, CAF Outlooks, and Cyber & Digital Outlooks. While we don’t make individual introductions, our events and tools (like GATEWAY capabilities) are designed to help you connect strategically.

What events do CADSI members have access to?

Members gain access to flagship events, including CANSEC, CAF Outlooks, Cyber & Digital Outlooks, and our member-only webinars, and networking sessions.

How do I join CADSI operating committees?

Committee participation is open to Corporate members in good standing. Nominations open each June, with new members joining in September. Contact our team to learn about current opportunities and the selection process.

When does the membership year begin and end?

The membership year runs from January 1 to December 31. Fees are non-refundable, non-transferable, and not prorated, regardless of your join date.

How do I renew my membership?

Renewal opens each fall. Members receive reminders by email. Log into your myCADSI account, complete the short annual survey, and submit payment to continue your access without interruption.

Is my membership automatically renewed?

If you’ve added a credit card to your myCADSI account and opted in for auto-renewal, your membership will renew automatically each October for the following membership year. You’ll receive advance notice before the renewal is processed.

If you prefer to renew manually, you can log in to myCADSI anytime in the fall to complete the process and confirm your organization’s details.

Can I update or cancel my auto-renewal preference?

To cancel or change your auto-renewal status, please contact our membership team at membership@defenceandsecurity.ca before the renewal period begins in October. Changes cannot be made after your renewal has been processed.

What does it mean to be a Key Representative?

The Key Representative is your organization’s main contact for CADSI communications and membership management. This individual receives renewal notices and key updates on behalf of the organization.

How do I update my organization’s contact information?

Log in to your myCADSI account to update details anytime. For changes to your Key Representative or billing contact, email membership@defenceandsecurity.ca for assistance.

Can I transfer my membership to another organization?

No. Membership is organization-specific and cannot be transferred.

What’s included in the myCADSI portal?

Members can manage their accounts, register for events, access resources, update company profiles, and explore GATEWAY tools (Capabilities, Intel, myResources).

Do I need to be a member to attend CADSI events?

Yes. Most CADSI events—including CANSEC and CAF Outlooks—are exclusive to members. Membership ensures your organization has access to the industry’s most influential platforms.

How do I register for CADSI events?

Register through the myCADSI portal. Members receive advance notice of event registration dates and exclusive opportunities through CADSI newsletters.

Can Associate members exhibit at CANSEC?

No. Exhibit rights at CANSEC are reserved for Corporate members. Associate members are welcome to attend as delegates, purchase meeting suites and sponsorship packages, and participate in networking sessions.

Are CADSI events accessible?

Yes. CADSI is committed to accessibility and inclusivity across all events. Please contact events@defenceandsecurity.ca with any accessibility requirements, and our team will be happy to accommodate you.

Can I sponsor CADSI events?

Yes. Sponsorship opportunities are available across all CADSI events like CANSEC, CAF Outlooks, Cyber & Digital Outlooks, and international events. Contact sponsorship@defenceandsecurity.ca for available packages and timelines.

Does CADSI organize international trade missions?

Yes. CADSI manages Canada Pavilions at major international defence and security trade shows such as Eurosatory, DSEI UK, and AUSA. Members can apply to exhibit, participate as delegates, or join official networking programs abroad.

Can CADSI help promote my company at events?

Yes. CADSI offers several ways to elevate your company’s visibility across our flagship events and platforms. Members can purchase CADSIboost advertising to feature their brand in event eBlasts and websites leading up to events. For onsite visibility, sponsorship and branding opportunities are also available. To explore current digital and onsite options, contact our Business Development team at Sponsorship@defenceandsecurity.ca

Still Have Questions?

Our membership support team is here to help you find the information you need.

Phone support

+1 613-235-5337
9 AM to 5 PM EST

Related Resources

Pricing & Plans Comparison

Compare membership tiers and find the right fit for your organization [View Plans]

View Plans
Operating Committee Information

Learn about committee participation and leadership opportunities

Learn more
Membership Application Guide

Step-by-step guide to applying for CADSI membership

View our membership guide

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