Technology Industry Grants in Canada: Current Grants + Tips for Applying
The technology industry is a driving force of innovation and economic growth in Canada, encompassing businesses that specialize in software development, hardware production, artificial intelligence, and more. With rapid advancements and global competition, tech companies often require funding to scale, innovate, and sustain their operations. To support this dynamic sector, various funding opportunities, including grants, loans, and equity investments, are available.
Key Takeaways
- Technology business grants provide non-repayable financial assistance for projects that foster innovation, research, and development (R&D), and global competitiveness in the tech sector.
- Funding is offered by federal and provincial governments, non-profit organizations, and industry associations.
- Typical eligibility criteria include operating within the technology industry, aligning with grant objectives, and sometimes matching funds requirements.
- Funds can typically be used for activities such as R&D, technology adoption, workforce development, and market expansion.
- Complementary funding options include business loans, tax incentives, and venture capital tailored to the tech sector.
What is a Technology Industry Grant?
A grant for a technology business is a non-repayable financial resource provided by government bodies, non-profit organizations, or industry associations to support innovation, growth, and competitiveness within the technology sector. Technology business grants aim to address challenges such as scaling R&D, digital transformation, and entering international markets by funding specific projects that align with industry priorities.
Grants are typically categorized into:
- Activity Grants: Focused on funding activities such as R&D, prototyping, or scaling technological solutions.
- Audience Grants: Targeted at specific groups, such as women-led or youth-led technology businesses.
- Industry Grants: Designed to advance the tech sector as a whole, supporting projects that drive innovation and global competitiveness.
- Regional Grants: Aimed at fostering technology growth in specific provinces, territories, or underserved regions.
Grants vs Loans in Canada for Technology Businesses
| Aspect | Business Grants | Business Loans |
|---|---|---|
| Repayment | Not required | Required with interest |
| Financial Risk | Minimal | Moderate to high |
| Eligibility | Strict and project-specific | Based on creditworthiness |
| Application Process | Competitive and time-consuming | Faster but requires financial proof |
For specific projects like R&D, prototyping, or entering new markets, grants are highly advantageous. Loans, on the other hand, are suitable for broader or immediate financial needs, such as scaling operations or covering cash flow gaps.
Types of Grants for Technology Businesses in Canada
Federal Government Grants for Technology Businesses
Federal grants focus on national priorities such as advancing R&D, fostering innovation, and improving global competitiveness. These grants often fund projects with industry-wide impact, including cutting-edge technology adoption, development of intellectual property, and commercialization of innovations. Federal programs also support export-oriented tech businesses and initiatives that promote digital transformation across sectors.
Provincial Government Grants for Technology for Businesses
Provincial grants address specific technology sector challenges and opportunities within their regions. These grants frequently support projects such as adopting AI solutions, developing green technologies, and scaling tech startups. Many provinces provide funding for collaborative research projects between businesses and academic institutions, aiming to drive local innovation ecosystems.
Non-Profit Grants for Technology Businesses
Non-profit organizations and industry associations often provide grants to encourage collaboration, inclusion, and sustainability within the tech sector. These grants may focus on initiatives such as bridging the digital divide, promoting diversity in tech leadership, and fostering partnerships between tech startups and established firms. Non-profit grants often prioritize projects that have a strong community or social impact alongside their technological goals.
Eligibility Criteria for Technology Business Grants in Canada
Eligibility criteria for technology business grants are designed to prioritize impactful and innovative projects. Key criteria include:
1. Industry Alignment
2. Project Specificity
3. Geographic Requirements
4. Business Size and Status
5. Financial Contribution
6. Expected Impact
7. Required Documentation
Applying for Technology Business Grants: Top 5 Tips
1. Research Grant Opportunities
2. Create a Strong Proposal
3. Demonstrate Financial Stability
4. Align with Grant Priorities
5. Engage Early and Follow Up
Alternatives to Grants for Technology Businesses in Canada
Loans & Credit for Technology Businesses
Startup Programs for Technology Businesses
Equity Investment Programs for Technology Businesses
Technology Industry Grants in Canada – Current Grants Available
In the sections below you’ll find a sample of the federal and provincial grants currently available for technology businesses in Canada:
Federal Government Technology Business Grants
$500,000 to $5 million per recipient; repayable contributions for businesses, non-repayable contributions for not-for-profits’ non-commercial projects
Loan, Grant
Description:
The Regional Quantum Initiative funds businesses and not-for-profit organizations that are commercializing quantum products and solutions for domestic and global markets. It focuses on:
1. quantum computing
2. quantum sensors
3. quantum communications technology
4. quantum materials
Businesses: interest-free repayable funding for up to 50% of eligible costs; eligible not-for-profit organizations: non-repayable funding for up to 90% of eligible costs
Loan, Grant
Description:
As part of the Government of Canada’s efforts to develop a National Quantum Strategy (NQS), Prairies Economic Development Canada (PrairiesCan) is delivering the Regional Quantum Initiative (RQI) in Alberta. This fund will help companies and not-for-profit organizations advance and commercialize quantum products and solutions for domestic and global markets.
No fixed amount
Grant
Description:
With support from the National Research Council of Canada Industrial Research Assistance Program (NRC IRAP), Canadian small and medium‑sized enterprises can turn their innovations into market-ready products and services.
NRC IRAP provides funding to support the research and development of innovative, technology-driven products and services, and other innovation activities to help your business grow, create jobs, and compete globally.
Phase 1: a maximum of $150,000 over up to six months to develop a proof of feasibility report (in some cases up to $300,000); Phase 2: up to $1M over a maximum of 2 years to develop and test a prototype (in some cases up to $2M)
Grant
Description:
This stream is open to Canadian small and medium businesses.
Through our competitions, we are looking for innovative ideas, early-stage innovations, and late-stage prototypes that can address specific challenges faced by government organizations.
By participating in this stream, you may receive funding to develop a proof of feasibility report, and/or you may receive funding to build and test your prototype.
no fixed amount
Grant
Description:
The Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative (RAII) will help bridge the gap between cutting-edge AI research and broader marketplace consumption with support spanning two pillars:
AI productization and commercialization – Support AI scale-ups address common challenges on their journey from lab prototypes to real-world applications, including securing growth capital, talent acquisition, data management, and navigating regulatory and business conduct frameworks.
Adoption of AI applications – Support will address AI adoption lag among small and medium-sized enterprises. Support will focus on addressing challenges, such as skills gaps, AI integration complexities, and compliance with regulatory and industry standards.
No fixed amount
Grant
Description:
Eureka is the world’s largest international network for industrial research and development (R&D) collaboration that includes over 45 economies from Europe, Chile, Israel, Singapore, South Korea, South Africa and Canada. It aims to facilitate market-oriented, industry-led R&D collaboration projects across borders, bringing together small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs), large companies, research centres, universities and other innovators.
Canadian SMEs approved for Eureka projects receive advisory services and funding support from the National Research Council of Canada Industrial Research Assistance Program (NRC IRAP).
NRC IRAP covers up to 50% of project costs for SMEs, to a maximum of 500,000 Canadian dollars per Canadian SME participant per project (non-repayable contribution against approved work completed and invoiced)
Grant
Description:
Eurostars is a funding instrument that supports innovative SMEs and project partners (large companies, universities, research organisations and other types of organisations) by funding international collaborative R&D and innovation projects.
Canadian funding body, the National Research Council of Canada Industrial Research Assistance Program (NRC IRAP), provides eligible Canadian SMEs with advisory services and funding support for R&D costs resulting from participating in our Eurostars programme.
no fixed amount
Grant
Description:
Through RAII, RDAs will support projects that help businesses turn their ideas into real-world solutions for Canadians and compete globally. CanNor received $4.1 million to support relevant projects in the territories. If your business or organization is exploring innovative projects that leverage or develop AI components, you are encouraged to apply.
$200,000 to $5M per project, as interest-free repayable contributions
Loan
Description:
The Business Scale-up and Productivity (BSP) program invests in high-growth businesses in B.C. that are scaling and developing innovative goods, services or technologies. It focuses on both established and emerging sectors to enhance B.C.’s leadership in priority areas.
Interest-free, repayable funding up to 50% of eligible project costs: minimum $200,000; maximum $5 million per project from PrairiesCan (maximum $10 million to any 1 organization)
Loan
Description:
It supports high-growth* businesses that are seeking to improve productivity, scale-up and commercialize technology. It offers interest-free, repayable funding to incorporated businesses
no fixed amount
Grant
Description:
The Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative (RAII) will provide support through two streams:
AI productization and commercialization will help AI start-ups and growing firms scale up and address common challenges on their journey from lab prototypes to real-world applications, including securing growth capital, hiring the right people, managing data, and navigating regulatory frameworks.
Adoption of AI applications across critical sectors will address the AI adoption lag among Canadian businesses and help enhance productivity, growth and competitiveness. Support will focus on addressing challenges faced by SMEs, such as skills gaps, AI integration complexities, and compliance with regulatory and industry standards.
Through the RAII, ACOA is helping to bridge the gap between cutting-edge AI research and broader marketplace consumption with support for Atlantic Canadian businesses.
Provincial Government Grants for Technology Businesses
Maximum request per application: up to $200,000, non-repayable (overall funding envelope $1,000,000)
Grant
Description:
The Video Games Business Development Program is a partnership between Creative BC and Canada Media Fund (CMF) designed to support the success and growth of B.C.-based game studios.
$15,000
Grant
Description:
Do you offer digital services that will benefit tourism businesses or community tourism organizations?
Earn up to $15,000 for digital services you provide to tourism businesses in Nova Scotia. If you have expertise in digital marketing, website design, photography, video production, or any other digital services.
No fixed amount
Investment
Description:
The Opportunity Calgary Investment Fund was created by the City of Calgary in 2018 with a mandate to accelerate diversification and strengthen our economy.
We’re shaping Calgary’s economic future by finding opportunities with the greatest potential benefit to the city, fuelling those opportunities with capital and fostering their success by integrating each investment into a network of resources and people.
Up to $10,000 of matched funding per four-month internship, to a maximum of $20,000 per company (1:1 match by the SME)
Grant
Description:
The Talent Development – Internship Program (TDI) provides support for recent undergraduate or Master’s graduates, to work on industry- driven projects related to the six CIT Critical Technology areas: 5G and advanced networks, AI, Blockchain, Cybersecurity, Quantum, and Robotics, in any one of the four key sector areas: Advanced Manufacturing, Agri-Food, Construction, Mining. Companies can tap into world-class talent coming out of Ontario’s publicly funded post-secondary institutions and strengthen their capacity to develop new products, services and processes, while interns receive hands-on industry experience in areas such as software and hardware development, artificial intelligence, and data analytics.
Up to 40 per cent of eligible costs to a maximum of $20,000 in assistance per approved project (up to two applications per business within a twelve-month period, totaling a maximum of $20,000)
Grant
Description:
Strategic Improvement Assistance supports Prince Edward Island businesses undertaking strategic activities to become more productive, profitable and competitive. The program supports costs for outside professional expertise required for projects related to improving operational efficiencies, internal planning or processes, and quality assurance.
Business projects: up to 15% of eligible project costs — loans up to 15% to a maximum of $5M, interest free during the project period (up to 4 years), with up to 30% of the loan (to a maximum of $500,000) forgivable; grants up to 15% to a maximum of $500,000 (rural companies with fewer than 100 employees) or $1,500,000 (strategic projects). Community economic development projects: up to 50% of eligible project costs for a maximum grant of up to $1.5 million
Grant, Loan
Description:
The Southwestern Ontario Development Fund provides support for projects and investments to existing businesses, municipalities and not-for-profit organizations for economic development in southwestern Ontario.
$1,000,000
Grant
Description:
As part of the broader Critical Industrial Technologies initiative, the Sector Adoption (SA) Program is a challenge based multi-partner program that drives significant impact and advancement of a whole sector.
No fixed amount
Grant
Description:
The Saskatchewan Technology Fund supports industry-driven technology, innovation and improvement projects that mitigate, sequester or capture greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
Up to 50% of the eligible costs of the approved project; total grant contribution from all Government of Prince Edward Island sources cannot exceed 50%
Grant
Description:
The Prince Edward Island Broadband Fund provides financial assistance to local Prince Edward Island internet service providers (ISPs), communities and businesses for the installation of infrastructure for enhanced broadband services.
The Prince Edward Island Broadband Fund (PEIBF) provides a contribution of up to 50% of the eligible costs for a project approved for funding.
Up to 50% of the eligible costs of the approved project (total grant contribution from all Government of Prince Edward Island sources cannot exceed 50%)
Grant
Description:
The Prince Edward Island Broadband Fund provides financial assistance to local Prince Edward Island internet service providers (ISPs), communities and businesses for the installation of infrastructure for enhanced broadband services.
$10,000
Grant
Description:
Since 2015, Digital Nova Scotia has been proud to bring its members free* training opportunities with the assistance of Nova Scotia’s Workplace Innovation and Productivity Skills Incentive (WIPSI). These programs are focused on improving Nova Scotian productivity, profitability, innovation, technology, machinery, equipment and increasing inter-provincial and international competitiveness while fostering workplace diversity.
$10,000
Grant
Description:
The Next Level program provides funding for Northwestern Ontario businesses with an innovative product or service and looking to expand. The support may be applicable to contracted expertise, services or direct costs in any of the following areas: equipment purchase, expansion to new markets, conference & tradeshows costs ($1,000 max), training & certification costs.
Up to $30,000 per startup (lifetime maximum of $30,000 to support pilot projects); the MIST grant must be matched 1:1 by the eligible project partner
Grant
Description:
MIST awards tech startups up to $30,000 to pilot their solution with a Saskatchewan public sector entity, non-profit, community-based organization or municipality.
Funding ranging from $20,000 – $40,000 per recipient, plus custom business advisory services through TechAlliance growth coaches and a suite of other benefits
Competition, Grant, In-Kind Support
Description:
A City of London-funded London Community Recovery Network project, TechAlliance launched the London Innovation Challenge in 2020 to accelerate and scale select London-developed solutions to address the recovery in areas of focus identified by the London community – Investing in People, Driving Prosperity and Fostering Community.
The London Innovation Challenge encouraged London innovators to develop a sustainable technology solution to address challenges facing our community.
Conditional contribution of up to 50% of total eligible costs to a maximum of $500,000 (Applied Research and Development only projects) or to a maximum of $2 million (combined, or Demonstration & Commercialization only projects)
Grant
Description:
Innovation Stream The Innovation Stream supports the research, development and commercialization of new and innovative technologies in Northern Ontario.
Private-sector businesses alone, or in partnership with a public sector academic or research institution.
Up to 50 per cent of eligible costs to a maximum of $50,000 in assistance per approved project
Grant
Description:
The Innovation Fund assists businesses to bring a new product, service, or process (“product”) to market by providing financial support for the costs to refine and commercialize an innovative product that has demonstrated potential for export market uptake.
No specific amount specified
Incubator, In-Kind Support
Description:
We understand that hardware founders experience unique challenges and have a finite amount of capital and time to bring their vision to reality. ventureLAB’s Hardware Catalyst Initiative is a competitive program that is offered at no cost and with no equity requirement to eligible companies. Dedicated to supporting both silicon and hardware companies for up to 24 months, the Hardware Catalyst Initiative is enabling Canadian companies to grow and scale locally to compete globally.
Annual fellowship stipends ($60,000 including benefits for an individual or $90,000 for teams of 2) and up to $71,000 in annual seed funding to cover technology and business development expenses
Grant, Entrepreneurship Program, In-Kind Support
Description:
GreenSTEM is an entrepreneurial pilot program for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) Masters and Ph.D. graduates. The pilot program enables entrepreneurship and provides a two-year commercialization runway for “deep technology” companies involved in science-based innovation that:
1. is expensive
2. has a lengthy development process
3. is more challenging to commercialize than conventional goods or software
Up to $10,000 of matched funding per company (1:1 match by the SME)
Grant
Description:
The Future Ready (FR) program provides support for Ontario-based SMEs working in CIT’s four key sectors (Advanced Manufacturing, Construction, Agri-food and Mining) to upskill/reskill current employees on Critical Technologies (5G and advanced networks, AI, Blockchain, Cybersecurity, Quantum,
and Robotics) to support the company’s adoption of Critical Technologies and commercialization of new products and services. Under this program eligible SMEs receive support to hire an external third-party consultant to train their employees in the adoption and implementation of these Critical Technologies.
$10,000 in non-matching funds per participant, plus one-on-one coaching and workshops from Communitech growth coaches
Grant, Entrepreneurship Program
Description:
Funding and support for women or non-binary founders from equity-deserving groups.
Fierce Founders Uplift helps accelerate your path from startup to world leader. Participating companies receive $10,000 in non-matching funds and one-on-one advice from Communitech growth coaches.
Up to $30-50K in milestone-based funding (Phase 2; advancement requires a validated and clear growth strategy, demonstrated commitment and coachability)
Grant, Accelerator
Description:
Fierce Founders Intensive Track helps women and non-binary founders scale to $1M in revenue*.
This program is designed for women and non-binary tech founders who have moved past the idea stage and are actively scaling toward $1M+ ARR.
Up to 60% of pre-determined eligible costs for approved Global Trade Services trade activities; up to 75% of pre-determined eligible costs, to a maximum Innovation PEI contribution of $3,000, for incoming buyers; combined non-repayable government funding cannot exceed 75 per cent of eligible costs
Grant
Description:
Export Trade Assistance provides support to Prince Edward Island exporting businesses to explore new global opportunities. Support may be available to participate in Innovation PEI’s Global Trade Services coordinated trade activities, focused on international and domestic exporting, or to bring buyers and business partners to Prince Edward Island to strengthen business relationships or close sales.
$10,001 to $100,000 per project, with a minimum 25 percent applicant cash contribution to total eligible project costs; total government assistance cannot exceed 75% of eligible Project costs
Grant
Description:
The Voucher Program provides Alberta tech and innovation companies with up to $100,000 to accelerate new product toward commercialization for novel, promising technologies, and an identified product/market fit.
Up to $150,000. Matching programme: Alberta Innovates matches the applicant’s cash and/or in-kind contribution to total eligible project costs, to a maximum of $150,000 (minimum applicant contribution 50% of total project costs). Total government assistance cannot exceed 75% of eligible project costs.
Grant
Description:
The Product Demonstration Program (PDP) supports Alberta tech companies commercialize their products and achieve optimal market position to increase revenue and expand into global markets.
Alberta tech companies may be eligible for up to $150,000 to enter a partnership with a strategic partner to conduct a product pilot or demonstration that proves their product’s technical and business merits.
Up to $10,000 in non-dilutive funding per project, with a minimum 25 percent applicant cash contribution to the total eligible project costs; total government assistance cannot exceed 75% of the eligible Project costs
Grant
Description:
The Micro Voucher Program helps Alberta tech companies to design and/or develop innovative technology solutions by providing up to $10,000 in non-dilutive funding.
Up to $105,000 in non-dilutive funding to help cover salary costs of an Associate over a one-year term; applicants must commit a minimum 25 per cent cash contribution of the total annual base salary
Grant
Description:
The Industry r&D Associates Program supports Alberta tech companies with an innovative technology or knowledge-based solution looking to employ in-house professional research and developmental expertise.
Qualified applicants may apply to receive up to $105,000 in non-dilutive funding to help cover salary costs of an Associate over a one-year term.
Up to $120,000 per Industry Commercialization Associate; the Applicant must provide a minimum of 25% of the Associate’s salary in cash; total government assistance cannot exceed 75% of eligible Project costs
Grant
Description:
The Industry Commercialization Associates Program helps you build a solid team with top talent.
Qualified applicants may apply to receive up to $120,000 in non-dilutive funding toward an employee salary. Applicants must commit a minimum 25 per cent cash contribution of the total annual base salary.
Up to $50,000 in non-dilutive funding per project over a maximum one-year term, paid by milestone (Milestone 1 up to $15,000, Milestones 2 and 3 up to $20,000 each), with the applicant contributing a minimum of 25 percent for each milestone
Grant
Description:
The Alberta Digital Traction program supports digital tech companies with software development at the core, who are looking to increase their customers, increase revenue, and scale to a global marketplace.
We are looking for candidates who are in the process of validating their product or service in the market and are ready to attract investment.
This program provides up to $50,000 in non-dilutive funding, business coaching, and support to attain digital traction.
100% of total eligible project costs, maximum to be defined in the posted Challenge Statement
Grant
Description:
The Technology Development (SME) Program partners Ontario-based small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with ENCQOR 5G Anchor Firms on 5G technology development projects.
Program Contribution 50% (maximum) of total eligible project costs, up to $50 000; SME Applicant Company 50% (minimum) of total eligible project costs
Grant
Description:
The ENCQOR 5G Demonstration Program supports standalone small- and medium-sized enterprise (SME) projects and SME collaborations with industry partners and/or public sector organizations such as municipalities, healthcare facilities, public utilities for testing and validation activities using the ENCQOR 5G Innovation Platform as a Service (iPaaS) testbed in order to develop or advance new technologies, products, processes and services.
Start Stream grant: $75,000 to $100,000 per project. No matching funding required. Phase 1 total allocation (both streams): $5 million.
Grant
Description:
The Start Stream funds projects that support businesses in their efforts to advance the development of their innovations and begin commercializing them
$250,000 to less than $1,000,000 per project (Scale & Grow Stream); grant covers half of project costs — the applicant must finance at least 50% of eligible project costs. Phase 1 total program allocation: $5 million across both streams ($3,758,200 awarded under the Scale & Grow Stream).
Grant
Description:
The Scale & Grow Stream funds large-scale projects that support the scale-up and growth efforts of businesses while, in turn, producing significant economic outcomes
Business projects: up to 15% of eligible project costs (loans up to 15% to a maximum of $5M, interest free during the project period, up to 30% of the loan to a maximum of $500,000 may be forgiven; grants in specific circumstances up to 15% to a maximum of $500,000 or $1,500,000); Community economic development projects: up to 50% of eligible project costs for a maximum grant of up to $1.5 million
Grant, Loan
Description:
The Eastern Ontario Development Fund provides support for projects and investments to existing businesses, municipalities and not-for-profit organizations for economic development in eastern Ontario.
$200,000
Grant
Description:
The Development and Commercialization (DC) Program supports the development and commercialization of Ontario made products and services that integrate/adopt Critical Technologies (5G and advanced networks, AI, blockchain, robotics, quantum, cybersecurity) related to four key sectors: Advanced Manufacturing, Agri-Food, Construction and Mining.
50 per cent (maximum) of total eligible project costs, from $20,000 to $150,000 (standalone stream); NSERC-Alliance stream: from $20,000 up to $50,000 from OCI C2C; NSERC-ARD stream: from $20,000 up to $40,000 from OCI C2C, each matched by the industry partner
Grant
Description:
This program supports the collaboration between Academia and Industry to solve an industry-based problem and drive the commercialization of Intellectual Property [IP].
Up to 25 per cent of the eligible costs to a maximum of $25,000 assistance (combined non-repayable government funding cannot exceed 75 per cent of eligible costs)
Grant
Description:
Capital Acquisition Assistance supports Prince Edward Island businesses investing in technology, equipment, and infrastructure needed to grow their business and increase capacity and competitiveness. The program provides businesses with financial assistance to leverage other traditional and non-traditional financing and reduce risk.
Up to 50 per cent of total project costs, to a maximum of $250,000 per project (co-funding with other public agencies up to 75 per cent of total project cost)
Grant
Description:
The Digital Innovation in Clean Energy (DICE) program supports the development of digital technologies that create value and jobs while reducing emissions in the energy sector.
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Maurice
