Digital Transformation Grants in Ontario

Q: What role does technology funding play in economic development in Ontario?

Technology funding plays a crucial role in Ontario’s economic development by facilitating the adoption of innovation by local businesses. By helping businesses digitize, the funding promotes job creation, improves productivity, and stimulates economic growth. This support allows businesses to overcome financial barriers and invest in digital solutions that enhance their competitiveness.

Q: What specific support is available for small businesses in the digital sector through the grant program?

Small businesses in the digital sector benefit from specific support, including grants for technology development, digital operations optimization, and access to experts who provide personalized advice. They also receive training on the latest technological trends and resources to enhance their overall digital strategy.

Digital transformation is a crucial driver for business growth in Ontario, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). To encourage this evolution, the Ontario government has implemented various grant programs that support the adoption of digital technologies. These initiatives aim to modernize business operations and prepare them for the future. This article delves into the Ontario Digital Transformation Grant Program, highlighting the main aspects of the program, eligibility criteria, and the impact of these grants on local economic development.

Application Process and Eligibility Criteria

Applying for the program is relatively simple and straightforward. Interested businesses must first verify their eligibility based on the criteria established by the program. These criteria mainly include:

Being a small business registered in Ontario.
Having a physical location (which excludes some online-only businesses).
Employing fewer than 50 full-time employees.
Demonstrating a need for specific digital improvements, such as website development, adoption of new technologies, or implementation of e-commerce solutions.

Once eligible, businesses must submit an online application that includes a detailed digital transformation plan. This plan should illustrate how the funds will be used to achieve strong optimization of digital processes. Upon approval, businesses can receive up to CAD 2,500 to finance their digital transformation project.

Eligible Businesses and Sectors

The grants primarily target small businesses, including Main Street businesses such as restaurants, shops, professional services, and personal service businesses. Sectors like retail, hospitality, and services are typical beneficiaries of this program, especially those seeking to bridge the digital divide.

Larger businesses can also benefit from similar programs, such as the CDAP (Canada Digital Adoption Program), which caters to companies with higher growth potential and more complex innovation needs.

Funding Allocation and Support Services

The funds allocated through the program can be used for a variety of initiatives, including:

Website development and online optimization enhancement.
Adoption of customer relationship management (CRM) and inventory management systems.
Training staff on new technologies.
Purchasing computer equipment and software.

In addition to the funds, businesses receive support services such as professional digital marketing advice, training workshops, and access to educational resources to help implement their digital strategies.

Impact on Economic Development

Digital transformation grants play a crucial role in Ontario’s economic development. By supporting small businesses, these programs stimulate innovation, increase competitiveness, and promote job creation. Digital transformation initiatives have also contributed to revitalizing Main Street businesses, helping them attract a broader customer base through enhanced online presence.

Case studies show that businesses investing in digital technologies see significant increases in revenue and operational efficiency. By integrating online services, such as e-commerce platforms and digital payment systems, these businesses can not only survive but thrive in a constantly evolving economic environment.

Supporting Small Businesses in Ontario

Support for small businesses is essential for the local economy. By providing grants and support services, the government helps bridge the digital divide that still exists between large and small businesses. Small businesses, especially Main Street shops, can adopt digital solutions that enable them to remain competitive.

Digital technologies also offer opportunities for standard optimization and growth that small businesses might not otherwise afford. By helping these businesses adopt digital technologies, grant programs reduce the risk of sub-optimization and maximize local economic impact.

Importance of Digital Transformation for Small Businesses

For small businesses, digital transformation is not just about survival but an opportunity to accelerate growth. Tools like inventory management systems, online booking platforms, and personalized digital marketing strategies enable businesses to better serve their customers and optimize their operations.

Digital transformation also improves business resilience in the face of economic challenges, offering ways to diversify income sources and access new markets. Ultimately, these initiatives strengthen the local economy by creating an environment conducive to innovation and entrepreneurship.

Digital Transformation Strategies for Medium-Sized Businesses

For medium-sized businesses, digital transformation strategies go beyond adopting new technologies. It involves integrating these technologies into all aspects of the business, from daily operations to strategic management. Support services, such as the Digital Service Squad, play a vital role in providing advice and training to ensure the successful integration of new digital solutions.

32 opportunities available

OCI — Digital Modernization and Adoption Plan program (DMAP)

Grant and FundingOpen

Ontario, Canada

OCI — Digital Modernization and Adoption Plan program (DMAP)

Support for digital modernization for SMEs in Ontario

Eligible Funding

From $15,000 to $15,000
Up to 50% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Manufacturing
Information and cultural industries
Professional, scientific and technical services

Types of eligible projects

DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Ontario, Canada

Grant and FundingClosed

Ontario, Canada

Digital Main Street – Digital Transformation Grant Program

Funding to develop Ontario SMEs online presence

Eligible Funding

No Condition

Eligible Industries

Retail trade

Types of eligible projects

DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Ontario, Canada

REGI — Targeted Manufacturing Initiative for Northern Ontario

Grant and FundingOpen

Ontario, Canada

REGI — Targeted Manufacturing Initiative for Northern Ontario

Funding for manufacturers in Northern Ontario

Eligible Funding

Up to 33% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Manufacturing

Types of eligible projects

TECHNOLOGYINNOVATIONDIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Ontario, Canada

Customized Export Development Training Program

Grant and FundingClosed

Ontario, Canada

Customized Export Development Training Program

Funding for export expertise, training and planning

Eligible Funding

Max. $10,000
Up to 50% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction
Manufacturing
Transportation and warehousing
Information and cultural industries

Types of eligible projects

COMMERCIALIZATIONDIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Ontario, Canada

Interactive Digital Media Fund — Production

Grant and FundingClosed

Ontario, Canada

Interactive Digital Media Fund — Production

Money for digital media projects in Ontario

Eligible Funding

From $25,000 to $300,000
Up to 50% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Information and cultural industries
Arts, entertainment and recreation

Types of eligible projects

COMMERCIALIZATIONTECHNOLOGYDIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Ontario, Canada

Discover how much grant funding is available for your business

Subsidize your projects with government financial aid

Use our free grant estimator to quickly identify the available grant amounts for which your company may be eligible.

Unlock Your Business’s Full Potential with Government Grants and Financial Aid

Are you looking for ways to secure funding for your business and reduce costs? Government grants, subsidies, and financial aid programs offer valuable opportunities for companies across various industries. Whether you’re a startup, an established small business, or a growing enterprise, you may be eligible for non-repayable grants, tax credits, and financial assistance to support your projects.

Discover How Much Grant Funding Your Business Can Access

Many businesses miss out on free funding opportunities simply because they don’t know they exist. That’s why we’ve created a free grant estimator—a powerful tool designed to help you identify available grant amounts based on your company’s profile, sector, and project type. In just a few clicks, you can gain insights into the financial aid programs that match your business needs.Our estimator scans a wide range of government grants, including:

Innovation and R&D grants for companies developing new products, services, or technologies.
Export and international expansion subsidies to help businesses enter new markets.
Workforce development funding for training, hiring, and upskilling employees.
Green energy and sustainability grants for eco-friendly initiatives and energy-efficient projects.
Startup and entrepreneur support programs for new businesses seeking capital and resources.

Maximize Your Business Growth with Non-Repayable Financial Assistance

Unlike traditional loans, many government grants and subsidies do not require repayment, making them a valuable way to boost your company’s financial health. By securing business funding, you can invest in key areas such as technology, infrastructure, hiring, and research without straining your cash flow.Here’s how our free grant estimator can help you: ✅ Quickly assess your eligibility for various funding programs. ✅ Save time by filtering out programs that don’t apply to your business. ✅ Unlock hidden financial opportunities that you might not be aware of. ✅ Reduce financial risks by accessing non-repayable funding sources. ✅ Increase your chances of approval with up-to-date funding information.

Take Advantage of Government Funding Opportunities Today

Don’t let your business miss out on grant funding that could propel your success. Whether you need support for a new project, expansion, hiring, or innovation, government financial aid programs are available to help. Start using our free grant estimator now and discover how much grant money your company can access today!

Grant and FundingClosed

Ontario, Canada

Triple-P

Money for innovation initiatives in northern Ontario

Eligible Funding

Max. $10,000
Up to 50% of project cost

Eligible Industries

All industries

Types of eligible projects

COMMERCIALIZATIONINNOVATIONDIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Ontario, Canada

Other SupportPartnering and CollaborationExpert AdviceOpen

Ontario, Canada

CFIN — Unpuzzling: Foodtech Ontario

Mentorship program accelerating early-stage foodtech companies in Ontario

Eligible Funding

No Condition

Eligible Industries

Manufacturing
Wholesale trade
Retail trade
Transportation and warehousing

Types of eligible projects

COMMERCIALIZATIONTECHNOLOGYENVIRONMENT AND CLIMATEINNOVATIONDIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Ontario, Canada

Ontario Production Services Tax Credit (OPSTC)

Tax CreditsOpen

Ontario, Canada

Ontario Production Services Tax Credit (OPSTC)

Tax credit for film and television production in Ontario

Eligible Funding

Min. $1,000,000
Up to 21.5% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Information and cultural industries

Types of eligible projects

DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Ontario, Canada

Grant and FundingClosed

Toronto, Ontario

Toronto Retail Accelerator Program

$10,000 micro grant to help Toronto's small retail businesses thrive and expand

Eligible Funding

Max. $10,000

Eligible Industries

Retail trade

Types of eligible projects

COMMERCIALIZATIONBUSINESS BUYOUTDIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Toronto, Ontario

Aboriginal Participation Fund (APF) — Education and relationship-building

Grant and FundingOpen

Ontario, Canada

Aboriginal Participation Fund (APF) — Education and relationship-building

Enhancing Aboriginal knowledge and relationships in the mineral sector

Eligible Funding

No Condition

Eligible Industries

Mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction

Types of eligible projects

TECHNOLOGYENVIRONMENT AND CLIMATEHUMAN RESOURCESINNOVATIONDIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Ontario, Canada

Tired of scrolling through all these programs?

Filter funding opportunities relevant for your company on the helloDarwin platform

Sort over 3,000 business funds by your industry, projects and location with helloDarwin's free app.

In today’s fast-paced economic environment, where innovation, digital transformation, and competitiveness require ongoing investment, grants and public funding are crucial tools for business success. However, despite the abundance of available programs, many businesses underuse them—often due to their complexity, lack of awareness, or the administrative burden required to apply.

That’s where helloDarwin’s grant platform comes in: a centralized, intelligent, and guided solution designed to help companies gain faster, easier access to the financial support they’re entitled to.

A Platform Designed for Modern Business Needs

helloDarwin’s grant platform was designed to match the realities of today’s businesses. It caters to all types of organizations—from startups and SMEs to nonprofits and scaling enterprises—with a clear mission: to offer a centralized, tech-driven, and human-supported entry point to the world of grants and government funding.

Thanks to its user-friendly interface and smart search engine, businesses can instantly identify the most relevant grants for their needs. Whether the goal is to hire talent, develop new technologies, expand internationally, or embrace sustainable practices, the platform offers comprehensive support—from identifying relevant programs to finalizing the funding application.

A Vast and Continuously Updated Grant Database

One of the platform’s key strengths lies in its extensive database of over 3,000 grant and funding programs, covering local, provincial, and federal opportunities across Canada. This ensures that businesses can discover the full spectrum of available funding—whether it’s for digitalization, workforce development, marketing, sustainability, or infrastructure.

The database is constantly updated to reflect new funding programs, changes in eligibility criteria, and submission deadlines. Businesses using the platform benefit from up-to-date, relevant information that allows them to act at the right time, with the right tools.

Personalized and Smart Grant Matching

helloDarwin offers more than just a directory. With just a few details—such as your business sector, location, size, and project type—the platform provides a personalized eligibility analysis. The built-in estimator also allows users to forecast the amounts they might receive, helping them make better-informed strategic decisions.

This initial simulation is completely free and offers businesses a quick understanding of their grant potential. Instead of postponing important projects due to budget constraints, companies can explore viable financial support options that make those projects feasible sooner than expected.

Full-Service Expert Support

Applying for grants can be overwhelming: deciphering eligibility, preparing required documents, writing persuasive proposals, and tracking deadlines. helloDarwin solves this by providing end-to-end support through its network of experts and funding consultants.

These professionals assist with every stage of the process—from eligibility assessment and document preparation to submission and follow-up. Businesses benefit from a turnkey service that maximizes success rates while minimizing internal workload.

This also helps avoid common mistakes—missing a submission date, providing incomplete information, or misunderstanding program rules—that could jeopardize a funding application. With helloDarwin’s experts at their side, companies can approach the grant process with confidence and focus on their core operations.

Diverse Project Categories and Funding Options

helloDarwin’s platform accommodates a wide variety of business projects, making it a valuable tool regardless of the company’s size or industry. Whether you’re a manufacturer looking to automate your production line, a service provider rolling out a new CRM, or a food producer aiming to expand internationally, there’s likely a grant program that fits your goals.

Popular funding categories include:

Digital Transformation: software, cybersecurity, automation, AI
Human Resources: hiring graduates, professional training, retention
Export & Market Development: trade missions, translation, digital campaigns
Sustainability: energy efficiency, waste management, eco-certification
R&D & Innovation: product development, process improvement, prototyping
Infrastructure & Capital Assets: renovations, equipment purchases, workspace upgrades

Many programs offer reimbursement rates ranging from 25% to over 90% of eligible costs, and some can be combined for even greater impact.

Direct Impact on Business Performance

By simplifying access to funding, helloDarwin empowers businesses to lower their investment risk, accelerate project timelines, and enhance their competitiveness. The effect is tangible: a delayed project can be launched; a strategic hire can be made; an international expansion can be undertaken under more favorable conditions.

Long-term, businesses that take advantage of grants become more productive, attract better talent, increase market visibility, and strengthen their credibility with stakeholders. In this way, grants become more than just financial support—they are a strategic management tool that fosters long-term resilience and innovation.

A Perfect Balance of Technology and Human Support

helloDarwin’s hybrid approach—combining smart digital tools with real human expertise—is what sets it apart. Users benefit from a sleek, efficient platform that helps them search, filter, and evaluate funding opportunities, as well as direct access to professionals who help them turn those opportunities into concrete results.

This makes the platform suitable for all types of users. Independent business owners can self-navigate and explore grants at their own pace, while those looking for complete support can rely on dedicated experts for a hands-free experience. The result is a flexible, scalable, and personalized solution that adapts to every business profile.

Strengthening the Canadian Business Ecosystem

Beyond individual companies, helloDarwin’s grant platform plays a key role in strengthening Canada’s broader business ecosystem. By making grants more accessible, it helps stimulate innovation, encourage sustainable growth, support post-pandemic recovery, and accelerate digital and green transitions across sectors.

It also fosters collaboration among businesses, consultants, and service providers. helloDarwin’s marketplace allows grant recipients to easily connect with vetted professionals—marketing agencies, IT consultants, sustainability experts—who can help execute their funded projects.

This dynamic ecosystem not only improves outcomes for funded initiatives but also contributes to a more connected and supportive business community.

A Simple and Accessible Process

Signing up is easy and quick. Users create a business profile, answer a short questionnaire, and within minutes receive a tailored overview of their funding options. The estimator tool is free to use, and the initial consultation with a funding advisor is offered at no charge.

This makes the platform accessible even to small companies without in-house financial or grant expertise. It effectively democratizes access to public funding, ensuring that all businesses—not just large corporations—can take full advantage of government programs.

From Idea to Execution: Enabling Growth

helloDarwin’s platform guides businesses from the first spark of an idea to successful grant application and project execution. It encourages strategic thinking: What goals can we reach if we access the right support? How can we grow faster, smarter, and more sustainably with public funds?

Rather than viewing grants as optional or secondary, companies that use helloDarwin’s platform begin to see them as a key component of their business strategy. Whether investing in digital tools, hiring for the future, reducing environmental impact, or entering new markets, grants can be the enabler that turns vision into reality.

Grant and FundingOpen

Ontario, Canada

Northern Technology Accelerator Program

Supports Northern Ontario SMEs adopting innovative technology solutions

Eligible Funding

Max. $10,000
Up to 50% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Manufacturing
Retail trade
Transportation and warehousing
Information and cultural industries

Types of eligible projects

TECHNOLOGYINNOVATIONDIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Ontario, Canada

Grant and FundingOpen

Ontario, Canada

OCI — Technology Demonstration Program

The DCC Technology Demonstration Program supports Ontario SMEs in adopting and implementing digital technologies, offering up to $150,000 in reimbursement funds.

Eligible Funding

Max. $150,000
Up to 50% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Manufacturing
Retail trade
Information and cultural industries
Professional, scientific and technical services

Types of eligible projects

COMMERCIALIZATIONTECHNOLOGYDIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Ontario, Canada

INVEST North Program — Investment – Locate Stream

Grant and FundingOpen

Ontario, Canada

INVEST North Program — Investment – Locate Stream

Funding Northern Ontario business relocation and economic growth

Eligible Funding

Max. $5,000,000
Up to 50% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Manufacturing
Information and cultural industries
Professional, scientific and technical services

Types of eligible projects

COMMERCIALIZATIONCONSTRUCTION AND RENOVATION DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Ontario, Canada

Grant and FundingClosed

Ontario, Canada

OTF — Seed Grant

Build capacity and resilience for delivering impactful community programs and services

Eligible Funding

From $10,000 to $100,000

Eligible Industries

Health care and social assistance
Arts, entertainment and recreation
Other services (except public administration)
Public administration

Types of eligible projects

ENVIRONMENT AND CLIMATEHUMAN RESOURCESDIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Ontario, Canada

Community Enhancement Program — Broadband and Cellular Expansion Projects

Grant and FundingOpen

Ontario, Canada

Community Enhancement Program — Broadband and Cellular Expansion Projects

Funding to expand broadband access in Northern Ontario

Eligible Funding

Max. $1,000,000
Up to 50% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Utilities
Information and cultural industries
Public administration

Types of eligible projects

TECHNOLOGYDIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Ontario, Canada

Download the official 2025 grants guide

Access key insights to maximize your funding opportunities

Understand the different funding programs and find the best options for your business.

Unlock Your Business’s Full Potential with Government Grants and Financial Aid

Discover How Much Grant Funding Your Business Can Access

Innovation and R&D grants for companies developing new products, services, or technologies.
Export and international expansion subsidies to help businesses enter new markets.
Workforce development funding for training, hiring, and upskilling employees.
Green energy and sustainability grants for eco-friendly initiatives and energy-efficient projects.
Startup and entrepreneur support programs for new businesses seeking capital and resources.

Maximize Your Business Growth with Non-Repayable Financial Assistance

Take Advantage of Government Funding Opportunities Today

Ontario Computer Animation and Special Effects Tax Credit (OCASE)

Tax CreditsOpen

Ontario, Canada

Ontario Computer Animation and Special Effects Tax Credit (OCASE)

Tax credit for animation and special effects work in Ontario

Eligible Funding

Min. $25,000
Up to 18% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Arts, entertainment and recreation

Types of eligible projects

DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Ontario, Canada

Aboriginal Participation Fund (APF) — Advanced exploration and development support

Grant and FundingOpen

Ontario, Canada

Aboriginal Participation Fund (APF) — Advanced exploration and development support

Supporting Aboriginal communities in advanced exploration and mine development

Eligible Funding

Max. $15,000

Eligible Industries

Mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction

Types of eligible projects

COMMERCIALIZATIONARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)TECHNOLOGYENVIRONMENT AND CLIMATEHUMAN RESOURCESBUSINESS BUYOUTINNOVATIONDIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Ontario, Canada

Aboriginal Participation Fund (APF) — Early exploration support

Grant and FundingOpen

Ontario, Canada

Aboriginal Participation Fund (APF) — Early exploration support

Supports early exploration activities for Aboriginal communities

Eligible Funding

Max. $20,000

Eligible Industries

Mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction

Types of eligible projects

COMMERCIALIZATIONARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)TECHNOLOGYENVIRONMENT AND CLIMATEHUMAN RESOURCESBUSINESS BUYOUTINNOVATIONDIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Ontario, Canada

Grant and FundingOpen

Ontario, Canada

Export Marketing Assistance Program

Funding for export-focused activities

Eligible Funding

Max. $90,000

Eligible Industries

Mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction
Manufacturing

Types of eligible projects

COMMERCIALIZATIONDIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Ontario, Canada

Kenora and Rainy River District Business Accelerator Fund

Partnering and CollaborationGrant and FundingExpert AdviceOpen

Ontario, Canada

Kenora and Rainy River District Business Accelerator Fund

Supports business growth in Kenora and Rainy River Districts

Eligible Funding

Max. $10,000
Up to 50% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Manufacturing

Types of eligible projects

COMMERCIALIZATIONTECHNOLOGYHUMAN RESOURCESINNOVATIONDIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Ontario, Canada

Find tailored funding for your business

Discover more funding opportunities on the helloDarwin platform

Look through over 3000 grants, tax credits, loans and more financial aid on the helloDarwin application.

Imagine this: a fast-growing technology startup in Montreal is ready to expand internationally. They’ve built a solid team, developed an innovative SaaS product, and attracted their first round of investors. But as they prepare to hire new talent and scale operations abroad, they face a familiar roadblock—budget constraints. What they don’t realize is that there are government grants that could cover up to 75% of their next hire's salary and fund a good portion of their export marketing campaign. The only problem? They don’t know these programs exist, and even if they did, they wouldn’t know where to start.

This is exactly the problem helloDarwin set out to solve.

In Canada, there are thousands of grant programs available to support business development, innovation, sustainability, digitalization, and more. Yet navigating this ecosystem is like walking through a maze: confusing, technical, time-consuming, and—more often than not—discouraging. The result? Countless companies leave money on the table every year.

helloDarwin’s grant platform is flipping the script by turning complexity into clarity and making funding a strategic advantage for Canadian businesses of all sizes.

The Vision: A Smarter Way to Fund Business Growth

At its core, helloDarwin’s grant platform is built on a simple but powerful idea: funding should empower businesses, not overwhelm them.

Rather than forcing companies to research, interpret, and apply for grants on their own, helloDarwin offers an integrated digital solution that streamlines the entire process—from discovery to application, and even post-approval support.

This vision is rooted in the company’s broader mission: helping Canadian businesses thrive through smart connections. While helloDarwin originally made its name as a B2B matchmaking platform between businesses and service providers, its grant platform marks a bold and logical evolution: solving a systemic challenge with scalable impact.

Step 1: Discovery Made Easy

The first hurdle most companies face with grants is simply knowing what’s out there. With over 3,000 active programs available from federal, provincial, and municipal governments—not to mention sector-specific or innovation-focused initiatives—most businesses don’t have the time or resources to sort through the noise.

That’s where helloDarwin’s discovery engine comes in.

By inputting basic information—such as location, industry, company size, and project goals—users are instantly matched with relevant programs tailored to their needs. The platform’s smart algorithms cross-reference eligibility criteria with real-time data, surfacing only the most promising opportunities.

This eliminates guesswork and opens doors to programs that many companies never knew they were eligible for. A food processor in rural Ontario might find a grant for green packaging innovation. A Vancouver-based marketing agency may qualify for wage subsidies for creative hires. A manufacturing company in Halifax could discover federal funds for equipment modernization.

Step 2: Clear Guidance and Next Steps

Finding a grant is just the beginning. The real challenge begins when companies try to translate program guidelines into action. What are the actual funding limits? How are expenses defined? What paperwork is required? How long does approval take? What’s reimbursed, and what’s not?

helloDarwin’s platform demystifies these questions by offering clear, step-by-step breakdowns of each program: key dates, financial caps, co-funding ratios, admissible costs, and how to prepare a strong application. This reduces friction and helps companies build a confident, executable plan.

Step 3: Human Expertise When It Matters Most

Even the best-designed digital tools have their limits. That’s why helloDarwin complements its technology with real human expertise—grant advisors, funding strategists, and technical writers who know the process inside out.

For businesses that want to maximize their chances of approval, these experts step in to:

Review and validate eligibility
Write or revise grant applications
Build strong business cases aligned with funding priorities
Ensure deadlines are met
Coordinate post-funding reporting

This hybrid model—automation plus consultation—ensures that users get the best of both worlds. It’s fast and accessible for simple cases, and strategic and personalized for more complex projects.

And because helloDarwin is deeply embedded in the business services ecosystem, its advisors also help connect users with certified service providers—consultants, developers, training firms—who can execute the funded work.

Built for Real Business Use Cases

One of the most compelling aspects of the helloDarwin platform is its adaptability to real-life business scenarios. Here are just a few examples of how companies use the platform:

1. The AI Startup Expanding to Europe

A Montreal-based AI startup wants to open a sales office in Germany. With helloDarwin, they discover a combination of export development grants, translation subsidies, and hiring incentives that reduce their international expansion costs by 60%. With grant experts supporting their application, they secure the funds within two months and focus on entering the new market with confidence.

2. The Manufacturing Company Going Green

A mid-sized manufacturer in Ontario needs to modernize its equipment to reduce its carbon footprint. Using helloDarwin’s platform, they match with four green innovation programs that together cover 70% of the investment. The platform connects them with a sustainability consultant and a grant writer—both familiar with the funders' expectations.

3. The Agency Hiring Young Talent

A Toronto-based creative agency wants to hire two recent graduates but fears they can’t afford the full salaries. With helloDarwin’s help, they discover wage subsidy programs for youth employment. The grants cover 80% of the salary for the first six months, allowing them to hire sooner and accelerate delivery.

A Platform That Grows With You

helloDarwin’s platform isn’t just for one-time projects—it’s designed to become a strategic companion as businesses evolve. As companies grow, pivot, or explore new markets, the platform adapts, updating its recommendations and surfacing new opportunities.

Users can track application statuses, upload documents, and collaborate with consultants directly through the platform. They can also explore industry trends, funding cycles, and newly launched programs relevant to their sector.

It’s more than a transactional tool—it’s a business intelligence asset that supports growth over the long term.

Why It Works: Trust, Transparency, and Efficiency

Three values underpin the success of helloDarwin’s grant platform:

Trust Businesses know they are getting objective, vetted information—not biased promotions or limited program listings. The platform operates independently of government agencies and focuses on delivering value to its users first.
Transparency All fees (where applicable) and engagement terms are clear. Grant estimates are realistic, based on program rules, and users are guided toward opportunities that genuinely match their profiles.
Efficiency In a world where time is money, the platform reduces the time spent searching, guessing, and redoing failed submissions. From onboarding to approval, every step is optimized for speed and simplicity.

Making Grants a Growth Habit

Perhaps the greatest long-term value of helloDarwin’s platform is cultural. It helps businesses shift from viewing grants as a bonus—or a last resort—to seeing them as a routine part of their funding strategy.

This change in mindset has ripple effects. Companies that consistently use grants can:

Experiment with innovative ideas without bearing all the risk
Hire sooner, train better, and retain more talent
Invest in technology and sustainability with confidence
Build resilience against market shocks or supply chain disruptions
Gain recognition and trust from investors, clients, and government partners

Grants become not just about reducing costs, but about unlocking potential.

Who Is It For?

The helloDarwin grant platform is purpose-built for:

Startups exploring early-stage growth and hiring
SMEs seeking to modernize or expand internationally
Manufacturers aiming to automate or go green
Professional service firms investing in tools, marketing, or skills
Nonprofits and social enterprises scaling their impact

It’s ideal for companies with lean teams, limited admin bandwidth, and high-impact ideas that need a push to launch.

A New Standard for Funding Access

helloDarwin’s platform doesn’t just make it easier to access grants—it raises the bar for what businesses should expect from the process. No more fragmented research, unreadable PDF guides, or rushed last-minute applications. Instead, it offers a guided, intelligent, and empowering experience that brings grants into the heart of business planning.

In doing so, it supports a more dynamic, resilient, and forward-looking Canadian economy—one company at a time.

Grant and FundingClosed

Ottawa, Ontario

Digital Literacy Exchange Program

Funding for digital literacy initiatives

Eligible Funding

From $50,000 to $2,000,000

Eligible Industries

All industries

Types of eligible projects

DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Ottawa, Ontario

Ontario Book Publishing Tax Credit (OBPTC)

Tax CreditsOpen

Ontario, Canada

Ontario Book Publishing Tax Credit (OBPTC)

Tax credit for book publishing in Ontario

Eligible Funding

Up to 30% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Information and cultural industries

Types of eligible projects

COMMERCIALIZATIONDIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Ontario, Canada

Grant and FundingClosed

Toronto, Ontario

Ontario Creates Magazine Fund

Money for Ontario magazine publishers

Eligible Funding

Max. $80,000
Up to 75% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Information and cultural industries

Types of eligible projects

DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Toronto, Ontario

Grant and FundingClosed

Ontario, Canada

thriveFORWARD

Money for technology and industrial companies in Southern Ontario

Eligible Funding

Max. $100,000
Up to 50% of project cost

Eligible Industries

All industries

Types of eligible projects

COMMERCIALIZATIONTECHNOLOGYENVIRONMENT AND CLIMATEINNOVATIONDIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Ontario, Canada

INVEST North Program — Investment — Launch Stream

Grant and FundingOpen

Ontario, Canada

INVEST North Program — Investment — Launch Stream

Financial aid to start a business in Northern Ontario

Eligible Funding

Max. $200,000
Up to 50% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Construction
Manufacturing
Information and cultural industries
Professional, scientific and technical services

Types of eligible projects

COMMERCIALIZATIONCONSTRUCTION AND RENOVATION DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Ontario, Canada

Access over 3000 different funding opportunities

Try the helloDarwin platform today and find programs that fit your needs

The helloDarwin application makes it easy to unlock grants so your business can grow faster—with less hassle and more impact.

Across the Canadian entrepreneurial landscape, one paradox persists: billions of dollars are available every year in public funding and government grants, yet a large percentage of those funds remain unclaimed. Why? Because accessing them feels like trying to crack a bureaucratic code written in a foreign language.

Public funding is real—but it hides behind administrative red tape, eligibility mazes, fluctuating deadlines, and cryptic forms. The result? Thousands of businesses miss out on critical financial support, not because they’re unworthy, but because the system wasn’t built for speed, clarity, or accessibility.

That’s the problem helloDarwin set out to solve with its grant platform—a tool designed not only to uncover hidden opportunities but to turn them into engines for business growth.

The Reality: Entrepreneurs Don’t Have Time to Chase 28 Government Websites

What the team at helloDarwin realized early on is this: business owners have no shortage of vision, ideas, or ambition. What they lack is time, administrative capacity, and a clear path to funding.

Rather than throwing another data-heavy directory into the mix, helloDarwin built a smart, intuitive interface, backed by a high-impact support system, designed to translate public funding into real action.

No guesswork. No 100-page PDFs. No copy-pasting into spreadsheets at 10 p.m. Just a straight line from idea to opportunity—and from opportunity to execution.

Not a Promise. A Proven Process.

While it may look like a platform, helloDarwin is better described as a methodology. One that has been purpose-built for overworked founders, lean teams, and agile businesses. It follows three clear steps:

Explore — Use a dynamic tool to identify relevant programs based on your business profile, project goals, and sector.
Estimate — Get a personalized forecast of potential funding amounts.
Act — Access expert support to write, file, and manage your grant application all the way through approval.

What used to take companies three to six months (or was abandoned altogether) can now be launched in under a week. And unlike many do-it-yourself systems, helloDarwin’s method is reinforced by actual human support.

On the Ground: “We Thought It Wasn’t for Us”

Sophie, a co-founder of a sustainable design firm in Québec, had always assumed government grants were “for the big guys” or “tech companies with labs.” One afternoon, on a colleague’s recommendation, she logged into helloDarwin.

Within 15 minutes, she found she was eligible for:

80% funding for upskilling her team
Up to $50,000 for a digital process transformation
Export assistance for her eco-certified furniture line

With expert help from the platform’s network, two applications were submitted within six weeks. Three months later, the funds were flowing.

Her team kept working. She didn’t miss a single client meeting. The paperwork? Someone else handled it.

The Secret Weapon: Human Expertise + Automated Insight

The real strength of helloDarwin lies in the seamless handoff between technology and human expertise. Where most platforms offer tools and leave users to figure it out, helloDarwin provides real, qualified experts to walk alongside your business.

Once a relevant program is identified, users can activate support from:

Grant application specialists
Financial and tax consultants
Industry-specific advisors (tech, manufacturing, sustainability…)

These professionals know how to speak the language of funding agencies, avoid technical pitfalls, and build credible, compelling submissions that align with government priorities.

Grants as Strategy, Not Serendipity

One of the key cultural shifts that helloDarwin enables is this: stop seeing grants as a bonus. Start using them as a core business strategy.

By integrating public funding into your business roadmap, you can plan projects more effectively, make smarter investments, and time your initiatives with upcoming funding windows.

Take, for instance, a company that plans to hire three engineers in Q2 of next year. With helloDarwin, they can:

See which programs will be active
Prepare their documentation in advance
Maximize their reimbursement rate (often 50%–75%)
Accelerate hiring without overextending cash flow

This is not opportunism. It’s strategic resource allocation—backed by public funding that already exists.

A Platform That Evolves With You

Grants are seasonal. Programs change. Budgets close. That’s why a truly valuable tool must be living, adaptive, and proactive.

helloDarwin’s grant platform updates in real time. Its users receive alerts when:

A new program launches in their region or sector
Their business becomes eligible for something previously unavailable
A deadline is approaching for a high-value grant

It becomes a funding radar, embedded in your growth planning—not a tool you only use in times of desperation.

Who Is It For?

The answer is simple: any business with a project to fund. That includes:

Startups in early or late stages
SMEs looking to modernize
Manufacturers planning to automate
Creative firms digitizing their services
Exporters preparing to go global
Green innovators solving environmental challenges

Whether you're running a two-person creative agency or a 50-person industrial operation, there are grants for you. The only thing missing is a way to find them—and a partner to help unlock them.

Building an Ecosystem, Not Just a Platform

helloDarwin doesn’t work in isolation. It collaborates with:

Local economic development organizations
Industry associations and chambers of commerce
Banks and financial institutions
Professional service firms and consultants

This ecosystem allows the platform to not only recommend funding, but also connect users with vetted experts and service providers who can execute the projects being funded.

Need help building your e-commerce site, launching your ESG strategy, or hiring an export advisor? helloDarwin connects the dots—from funding to fulfillment.

Three Common Mistakes That helloDarwin Helps You Avoid

Waiting Too Long Many businesses defer their plans because they believe it’s “not the right time.” In reality, most grants have narrow windows. Wait too long, and the funding is gone.
Assuming You’re Not Eligible Public funding isn’t just for deep-tech startups or cleantech firms. It supports marketing, recruitment, training, IT upgrades, and much more.
DIY Grant Applications Too many companies go it alone. But one wrong number, one missed document, or one misinterpreted eligibility clause can ruin your chances.

helloDarwin addresses all three by offering structure, automation, and expert support from the start.

A Cultural Shift in How Businesses See Funding

The deeper mission of helloDarwin isn’t just technological—it’s cultural.

It’s about creating a new reflex in business planning: "We have a project. Let’s see what support exists for it." It’s about empowering even the smallest businesses to dream bigger, knowing that capital is accessible, and the roadmap to get it is clear.

A company that integrates grants into its financial strategy can:

Innovate without draining its runway
Recruit more confidently
Accelerate product launches
De-risk export strategies
Improve retention through training and benefits

Grants don’t just lower costs. They unlock momentum.

Ontario Creates-CMF — IDM Futures Forward Program

Grant and FundingClosed

Toronto, Ontario

Ontario Creates-CMF — IDM Futures Forward Program

Funding for early-stage digital media project development

Eligible Funding

Max. $20,000
Up to 75% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Information and cultural industries

Types of eligible projects

DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Toronto, Ontario

Canada United Small Business Relief Fund

Grant and FundingClosed

Ontario, Canada

Canada United Small Business Relief Fund

Grant supports small businesses' COVID-19 operational adjustments

Eligible Funding

Max. $5,000

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Retail trade
Other services (except public administration)
Public administration

Types of eligible projects

DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Ontario, Canada

Other SupportExpert AdviceOpen

Ontario, Canada

Foodpreneur Start-Up Seminars

Start-up support for entrepreneurs in southwestern Ontario

Eligible Funding

No Condition

Eligible Industries

Accommodation and food services

Types of eligible projects

COMMERCIALIZATIONBUSINESS BUYOUTDIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Ontario, Canada

Racialized and Indigenous Supports for Entrepreneurs (RAISE)

Grant and FundingClosed

Ontario, Canada

Racialized and Indigenous Supports for Entrepreneurs (RAISE)

Support for racialized and Indigenous entrepreneurs in Ontario

Eligible Funding

Max. $10,000

Eligible Industries

Retail trade
Accommodation and food services

Types of eligible projects

DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Ontario, Canada

Tax CreditsOpen

Ontario, Canada

Farm Property Class Tax Rate Program

Provides reduced property tax rates for eligible Ontario farmland owners

Eligible Funding

Up to 25% of project cost

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting

Types of eligible projects

COMMERCIALIZATIONARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)TECHNOLOGYENVIRONMENT AND CLIMATEHUMAN RESOURCESBUSINESS BUYOUTINNOVATIONDIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Ontario, Canada

Grant and FundingExpert AdviceOpen

Ontario, Canada

Innovation Guelph — Rhyze Up! Program

Expertise and leadership to assist women entrepreneurs

Eligible Funding

From $200,000 to $10,000

Eligible Industries

All industries

Types of eligible projects

COMMERCIALIZATIONINNOVATIONDIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Ontario, Canada

Regional Economic Growth Through Innovation & Southern Ontario Prosperity Program

Grant and FundingClosed

Ontario, Canada

Regional Economic Growth Through Innovation & Southern Ontario Prosperity Program

Funding for SMEs in Southern Ontario to grow, innovate and compete

Eligible Funding

Min. $125,000

Eligible Industries

Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Manufacturing
Information and cultural industries
Professional, scientific and technical services

Types of eligible projects

COMMERCIALIZATIONTECHNOLOGYENVIRONMENT AND CLIMATEINNOVATIONDIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

Ontario, Canada

Got any questions about digital transformation grants in Ontario?

Find out most commonly asked questions by our users

How can small businesses in Ontario apply for digital grants?

Small businesses can apply for digital grants by completing an online application on the program’s dedicated website. They must first verify their eligibility based on the defined criteria and then submit a detailed digital transformation plan explaining how they will use the funds to achieve their digital growth objectives. Businesses are also required to participate in training sessions and collaborate with experts to maximize the impact of their grant.