What Can the ISED AI Program Fund: A Comprehensive Guide
The ISED Artificial Intelligence (AI) program, sponsored by Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED), is designed to support the development and testing of innovative AI prototypes that address governmental needs. This program offers a significant opportunity for businesses to contribute to the government's AI strategy by providing practical solutions through tested prototypes. For full eligibility details, consult the complete program guide.
Overview of ISED AI Funding
ISED AI funding is focused on procuring and testing late-stage pre-commercial prototypes within the Canadian government’s framework. The program is divided into two main components: the Standard Component, with a funding ceiling of $1,100,000 CAD, and the Military Component, with a ceiling of $2,300,000 CAD. These components aim to create pools of conditionally qualified innovations that address various governmental requirements.
Eligible Expenses
Prototyping and Development Costs
The program funds costs associated with the development of AI prototypes. This includes salaries for personnel directly involved in the project, equipment specifically acquired for prototype development, and consulting fees for external expertise on AI and machine learning.
Testing and Evaluation
Expenses related to the testing and evaluation of prototypes are covered under this program. This can involve costs for setting up testing environments, software licenses for analytical tools, and data acquisition necessary for prototype validation.
Administrative and Operational Expenses
Certain administrative expenses, such as project management and reporting tasks, are eligible. This includes costs for documentation, reporting software, and other tools needed to ensure compliance with the program’s requirements.
Ineligible Expenses
While the ISED AI program is comprehensive, it does not cover all types of expenses. General business operations, marketing activities, and costs incurred prior to the project start date are typically ineligible. For a precise list of ineligible expenses, refer to the complete program guide.
Examples of Funded Projects
Projects that have been previously funded include those developing AI systems for automated decision-making processes, enhancing data processing capabilities, and generating predictive analytics for governmental operations. These examples illustrate the program's focus on practical, scalable solutions that improve governmental efficiency.
Funding Disbursement & Claiming Process
The ISED AI program provides funding through contracts, meaning recipients must adhere to specific claiming processes. Funding is typically disbursed based on project milestones. For detailed procedures, refer to the complete program guide.
Conclusion
The ISED AI program offers a robust framework for funding innovative AI prototypes, providing businesses with the opportunity to contribute to national priorities. By understanding eligible expenses and leveraging available resources, applicants can effectively plan their projects and maximize funding potential. For further details and to begin an application, consult the complete program guide.
