Saskatchewan Technology Startup Incentive (STSI)
The Saskatchewan Technology Startup Incentive (STSI) encourages investment in early-stage tech startups that bring new products to market and create jobs in Saskatchewan.
STSI offers a 45 per cent tax credit to Saskatchewan-based investors supporting Eligible Startup Businesses (ESBs).
Offered by Innovation Saskatchewan
Amount
45 per cent tax credit to Saskatchewan-based investors in Eligible Startup Businesses; up to $225,000 in tax credits per annual investment in an ESB, maximum $140,000 claimed per tax year; an ESB can raise a maximum of $2 million under the program
Quick eligibility check
Who can apply
- Saskatchewan-based startups developing novel innovations in digital, clean or life sciences technologies
- Saskatchewan-based accredited individual or corporate investors
STSI is open for ESBs to participate if they are Saskatchewan-based, substantially engaged in the research, development and commercialization of novel innovations in digital or clean technologies and additional criteria.
General Criteria
- Fewer than 50 employees, including full-time, part-time and contract workers
- 50 per cent of employees based in Saskatchewan
- Head office in Saskatchewan*
- Registered to do business in Saskatchewan
- Have not raised more than $5 million in equity capital
- Consult the Program Guide if ESB does not have a physical head office space
Technology Criteria
- Advancement to what currently exists in the marketplace
- Unique features and benefits distinct to competitors
- Digital technology uses electronics, software, computers, AI or other information & data systems
- Clean technology increases energy efficiency or reduce emissions or environmental impacts of existing industrial processes
- Life sciences technology provides solutions in human and animal health, and agricultural biotechnology
STSI is open to individuals, corporations and limited partnerships who are based in Saskatchewan and meet the respective eligibility criteria.
Individuals & Corporations
- Be an accredited investor OR meet exemption requirements
Limited Partnerships
- Have limited partners who meet individual or corporation criteria
- Have a mechanism to track ownership interests of each limited partner
- File a Declaration of Limited Partnership in accordance with the Business Names Registration Act
About the funding
STSI offers a 45 per cent tax credit to Saskatchewan-based investors supporting Eligible Startup Businesses (ESBs).
- Financing Type: Tax credits
- Annual Budget: $7 million*
- total annual program cap
Note: An ESB can raise a maximum of $2 million under the program. No more than $1 million of this investment can have occurred prior to April 1, 2021. An investor can earn up to $225,000 in tax credits per annual investment in an ESB and claim a maximum of $140,000 per tax year.
