Platform
Consulting
Resources
Pricing
grants and funding
By Ryan Remati-Paquette
December 8, 2025

Understanding What SCALE AI Acceleration Can Fund

SCALE AI's Acceleration program is designed to support Canadian AI startups and SMEs that focus on creating value chain solutions. This program offers up to $50,000 in funding per eligible startup or SME, helping them to advance their AI technologies and services. For full details on eligibility and funding processes, consult the complete program guide.

Overview of SCALE AI Funding

SCALE AI Acceleration aims to foster innovation in AI by providing financial support to companies developing applied AI products. The funding is structured as a reimbursement of eligible costs, ensuring that businesses can focus on enhancing their AI capabilities without financial strain. This initiative is crucial for startups and SMEs in Canada looking to scale their operations within the AI sector.

Eligible Expenses

Funding through SCALE AI covers a broad range of expenses essential for AI development:

  • Salaries and Wages: Compensation for staff directly involved in AI projects.

  • Consulting Fees: Costs for external expertise necessary for project completion.

  • Equipment and Software: Purchase of hardware and software vital for AI research and development.

  • Training and Development: Programs to enhance the skills of employees working on AI projects.

For a detailed breakdown of eligible expenses, refer to the complete program guide.

Ineligible Expenses

While SCALE AI covers numerous costs, certain expenses are not eligible for reimbursement. These typically include:

  • General administrative costs unrelated to AI projects.

  • Marketing and sales expenses not directly linked to AI initiatives.

  • Any costs incurred outside the eligible funding period.

Understanding what is not covered is as crucial as knowing what is; therefore, reviewing the ineligible expenses section in the complete program guide is recommended.

Funding Amounts and Disbursement

Each eligible startup or SME can receive up to $50,000 in funding. The funds are reimbursed based on the actual costs incurred, ensuring that financial support aligns with project needs. For current funding rates and disbursement details, visit the complete program guide.

Conclusion

SCALE AI Acceleration provides vital financial support for Canadian AI startups and SMEs, enabling them to innovate and expand within the AI sector. By understanding the funding scope and the types of expenses covered, companies can strategically plan their AI projects to maximize the benefits of this program. For comprehensive details and guidance, the complete program guide remains the best resource.

About the author

Ryan Remati-Paquette - Canadian grants specialist

Ryan Remati-Paquette

Canadian grants specialist
Working at helloDarwin for some time now, I'm in charge of providing you with the information you need on government aid. Dedicated to helping companies in Quebec and Canada reach their full potential, I write on the helloDarwin blog about the various programs, allowances and funding available to enable organizations to make their digital transformation through access to federal and provincial support.

See Related Articles

grants and funding

What Does the SR&ED Tax Incentive Fund?

grants and funding

What Expenses Can MAPAQ Component 2 Fund?

grants and funding

How to Apply for Explore and Create: Concept to Realization

Schedule your call today!