GrantEquity-free Canada
Industrial Research Assistance Program (IRAP)
National Research Council of Canada (NRC)
Apply / official page ↗Typical funding
Common contribution ranges from about $50,000 to $500,000 for SMEs; larger projects may receive more.
Maximum
Upper contributions can exceed $500,000 for sizable projects; exact caps project‑specific.
Startup stage
Tech startups and SMEs with at least one full‑time employee undertaking R&D and commercialization work.
Sector focus
Broad tech sectors including ICT, manufacturing, cleantech and more.
Overview
One of Canada’s largest programmes providing non‑dilutive funding and advisory support for technology development and commercialization.
Who's eligible
Canadian SMEs undertaking technology R&D with commercialization potential; must engage with IRAP Industrial Technology Advisors (ITAs).
How to apply
Discuss project with an IRAP ITA, then co‑develop and submit a funding proposal via NRC systems.
Good to know
Funds are often advanced before expenses are incurred, making IRAP very cash‑flow friendly for startups.