Grant + contractsEquity-free Canada
Innovative Solutions Canada (ISC)
Government of Canada
Apply / official page ↗Typical funding
Up to about $1M mentioned for some SME opportunities in 2026.
Maximum
Programme caps differ per challenge; some projects can reach around $1M.
Startup stage
Innovation‑driven SMEs capable of delivering prototypes and pilot solutions.
Sector focus
Varies by challenge (health, cleantech, digital, defence, etc.).
Overview
Challenge‑based federal programme that funds SMEs to develop solutions to government‑defined problems, often via phased grants and procurement contracts.
Who's eligible
Canadian SMEs responding to specific ISC challenges with innovative solutions and commercialization potential.
How to apply
Submit proposals through ISC challenge pages on the federal Funding and Tenders portal.
Good to know
Frequently recommended for tech SMEs seeking both grant funding and potential government customers.