Services
Expertises
Resources
Who we are

Innovation Grants Available in the Canadian Prairies for 2026

Across Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba, innovation grants help organizations fund research, pilot projects, product validation, and scale‑up. Programs span federal agencies like NRC IRAP and PrairiesCan, provincial bodies such as Alberta Innovates, Innovation Saskatchewan, and Research Manitoba, and sector initiatives across agri‑food, cleantech, digital, and manufacturing. This directory explains key funding types, eligibility, and how to apply so applicants can secure non‑dilutive financing.

211 programs available
  • Calgary Learns Association logo
    Grant and FundingClosed

    Calgary Learns - Initiative Grants

    Supports learning initiatives in Calgary
    Calgary, Alberta, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • Varies by project
    Types of eligible projects
    Innovation
    Timeline
    • Closing date : February 12, 2026
    Calgary, Alberta, Canada
  • Cambrian Credit Union logo
    Grant and FundingClosed

    Cambrian Credit Union Sponsorships and Donations

    Local support for community organizations
    Selkirk, Winnipeg, Manitoba
    Eligible Funding
    • Varies by project
    Eligible Industries
    • All industries
    Types of eligible projects
    Innovation
    Selkirk, Winnipeg, Manitoba
  • Alberta Innovates logo
    Researchers And FacilitiesPartnering and CollaborationGrant and FundingClosed

    Campus Alberta Small Business Engagement (CASBE) Program

    Funding for Alberta academic-industry technology collaboration
    Alberta, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • Maximum amount : 150,000 $
    Types of eligible projects
    CommercializationArtificial Intelligence (AI)TechnologyInnovationDigital Transformation
    Timeline
    • Closing date : November 6, 2025
    Alberta, Canada
  • ABC Life Literacy Canada (ABC) logo
    Grant and FundingClosed

    Canada Life Literacy Innovation Award

    Funding for innovative adult literacy programs
    Alberta, BC, Ontario, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • From $10,000 to $20,000
    Types of eligible projects
    Innovation
    Timeline
    • Open Date : April 1, 2026
    • Closing date : June 1, 2026
    Alberta, BC, Ontario, Canada
  • Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) logo
    Researchers And FacilitiesPartnering and CollaborationGrant and FundingClosed

    Canadian Emissions Reduction Innovation Network

    Supports development and deployment of emissions reduction technologies
    Alberta, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • Varies by project
    Types of eligible projects
    TechnologyEnvironment and ClimateInnovation
    Timeline
    • Closing date : May 1, 2019
    Alberta, Canada
  • Government of Alberta Health, Research and Innovation Branch logo
    Researchers And FacilitiesPartnering and CollaborationGrant and FundingClosed

    Cancer Research for Screening and Prevention Program Fund

    Funding for cancer prevention and screening initiatives
    Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • Maximum amount : 1,000,000 $
    Types of eligible projects
    Innovation
    Timeline
    • Closing date : October 31, 2022
    Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
  • Alberta Innovates logo
    Researchers And FacilitiesPartnering and CollaborationGrant and FundingClosed

    Carbon Fibre Grand Challenge Phase III

    Supports carbon fibre technologies from Alberta bitumen
    Alberta, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • From $200,001 to $4,000,000
    • Up to 75% of project cost
    Types of eligible projects
    CommercializationEnvironment and ClimateInnovation
    Timeline
    • Open Date : May 15, 2023
    • Closing date : June 26, 2023
    Alberta, Canada
  • Alberta Innovates logo
    Researchers And FacilitiesPartnering and CollaborationGrant and FundingClosed

    Chronic Wasting Disease Research Program

    Funding for collaborative CWD research in Alberta
    Alberta, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • Maximum amount : 250,000 $
    • Up to 25% of project cost
    Types of eligible projects
    TechnologyEnvironment and ClimateInnovation
    Timeline
    • Closing date : September 25, 2023
    Alberta, Canada
  • City of Brooks logo
    Partnering and CollaborationGrant and FundingClosed

    Coal Community Transition Fund

    Funding for Alberta coal community transition
    Alberta, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • Maximum amount : 1,750,000 $
    Types of eligible projects
    Environment and ClimateInnovation
    Timeline
    • Open Date : September 11, 2017
    • Closing date : November 30, 2017
    Alberta, Canada
  • ATCO Ltd. logo
    Grant and FundingClosed

    Community Energy Fund

    Funding for community energy projects
    Alberta, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • Maximum amount : 15,000 $
    Types of eligible projects
    Environment and ClimateConstruction and Renovation Innovation
    Timeline
    • Closing date : June 30, 2025
    Alberta, Canada
  • Community Foundation of Portage & District Inc. logo
    Portage La Prairie, Manitoba, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • Varies by project
    Eligible Industries
    • Educational services
    • Health care and social assistance
    • Arts, entertainment and recreation
    • Other services (except public administration)
    Types of eligible projects
    TechnologyEnvironment and ClimateConstruction and Renovation InnovationDigital Transformation
    Portage La Prairie, Manitoba, Canada
  • Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) logo
    Partnering and CollaborationGrant and FundingClosed

    COVID-19 and Mental Health (CMH) Initiative

    Rapid COVID-19 mental health research support
    BC, NB, Ontario, Saskatchewan, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • Maximum amount : 50,000 $
    Types of eligible projects
    InnovationDigital Transformation
    Timeline
    • Closing date : May 7, 2020
    BC, NB, Ontario, Saskatchewan, Canada
  • CSPG Foundation (CSPG) logo
    Grant and FundingClosed

    CSPG Foundation — General Funding

    Supports petroleum geoscience education in Canada
    Alberta, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • Varies by project
    Eligible Industries
    • Educational services
    Types of eligible projects
    Innovation
    Alberta, Canada
  • CWB Welding Foundation (CWB) logo
    Partnering and CollaborationGrant and FundingClosed

    CWB Association Chapter Awards

    Co-funded support for welding education initiatives
    Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • From $500 to $2,500
    Eligible Industries
    • Manufacturing
    • Educational services
    Types of eligible projects
    TechnologyInnovation
    Canada
  • Alberta Innovates logo
    Grant and FundingClosed

    Digital Health Sandbox

    Accelerates digital health technology adoption in Alberta clinical settings
    Alberta, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • Maximum amount : 300,000 $
    Types of eligible projects
    CommercializationTechnologyInnovationDigital Transformation
    Timeline
    • Open Date : October 6, 2025
    • Closing date : November 6, 2025
    Alberta, Canada
  • Government of Manitoba logo
    Manitoba, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • Maximum amount : 3,000,000 $
    Eligible Industries
    • Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
    • Construction
    • Retail trade
    • Real estate and rental and leasing
    Types of eligible projects
    Environment and ClimateConstruction and Renovation InnovationDigital Transformation
    Manitoba, Canada
  • Emissions Reduction Alberta (ERA) logo
    Partnering and CollaborationGrant and FundingClosed

    Drilling Technology Challenge

    Funding for innovative drilling technology projects advancing emissions reduction
    Alberta, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • From $250,000 to $8,000,000
    • Up to 50% of project cost
    Types of eligible projects
    CommercializationTechnologyEnvironment and ClimateInnovation
    Timeline
    • Closing date : January 29, 2026
    Alberta, Canada
  • Government of Alberta logo
    Partnering and CollaborationGrant and FundingClosed

    Dual credit — Start-up funding for school authorities

    Funding for new dual credit school programming
    Alberta, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • Maximum amount : 50,000 $
    Types of eligible projects
    CommercializationInnovation
    Timeline
    • Open Date : May 8, 2026
    • Closing date : June 11, 2026
    Alberta, Canada
  • City of Edmonton logo
    Grant and FundingClosed

    Edmonton Edge Fund

    Supports Edmonton businesses to start, scale, and innovate
    Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • From $75,000 to $1,000,000
    • Up to 50% of project cost
    Eligible Industries
    • All industries
    Types of eligible projects
    CommercializationEnvironment and ClimateHuman ResourcesInnovation
    Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
  • Government of Alberta logo
    Partnering and CollaborationGrant and FundingClosed

    Emerging Innovators Challenge

    SME-led clean technology funding in Alberta
    Calgary, Alberta, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • From $250,000 to $5,000,000
    • Up to 50% of project cost
    Types of eligible projects
    CommercializationArtificial Intelligence (AI)TechnologyEnvironment and ClimateInnovationDigital Transformation
    Timeline
    • Closing date : December 14, 2023
    Calgary, Alberta, Canada
  • Emissions Reduction Alberta (ERA) logo
    Grant and FundingClosed

    ERA — 2025 Industrial Transformation Challenge

    Transformative industrial decarbonization projects in Alberta
    Alberta, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • From $500,000 to $15,000,000
    • Up to 50% of project cost
    Eligible Industries
    • Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
    • Mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction
    • Utilities
    • Manufacturing
    Types of eligible projects
    CommercializationTechnologyEnvironment and ClimateInnovation
    Alberta, Canada
  • Emissions Reduction Alberta (ERA) logo
    Grant and FundingClosed

    ERA — Advanced Materials Challenge

    Funding for advanced materials and low-emissions innovation
    Alberta, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • From $250,000 to $5,000,000
    • Up to 50% of project cost
    Types of eligible projects
    CommercializationTechnologyEnvironment and ClimateConstruction and Renovation Innovation
    Timeline
    • Closing date : January 22, 2025
    Alberta, Canada
  • Emissions Reduction Alberta (ERA) logo
    Grant and FundingClosed

    ERA — Expanded Technologies Pilot

    Supports Alberta businesses testing new energy technologies
    Alberta, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • Maximum amount : 250,000 $
    • Up to 50% of project cost
    Types of eligible projects
    CommercializationTechnologyEnvironment and ClimateInnovation
    Timeline
    • Closing date : September 30, 2023
    Alberta, Canada
  • Government of Alberta logo
    Grant and FundingLoans and Capital investmentsClosed

    ERA — Tailings Technology Challenge

    Funding for oil sands tailings technology projects
    Alberta, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • From $1,000,000 to $15,000,000
    • Up to 50% of project cost
    Types of eligible projects
    CommercializationTechnologyEnvironment and ClimateInnovation
    Timeline
    • Open Date : June 17, 2025
    • Closing date : September 24, 2025
    Alberta, Canada
  • Feeder Associations of Alberta (FAA) logo
    Loans and Capital investmentsClosed

    Feeder Loan Guarantee Program

    Livestock financing and feeder loan support
    Alberta, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • Up to 15% of project cost
    Eligible Industries
    • Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
    Types of eligible projects
    Innovation
    Alberta, Canada
  • Atom Studio logo
    Grant and FundingClosed

    First Nations and Métis Sponsorships

    Funding for Indigenous community events
    Saskatchewan, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • From $1,000 to $5,000
    Eligible Industries
    • Public administration
    Types of eligible projects
    Innovation
    Saskatchewan, Canada
  • Genome Canada logo
    Researchers And FacilitiesPartnering and CollaborationGrant and FundingClosed

    Genome Prairie — Canadian Biotechnology Innovation and Commercialization (CBIC) Initiative

    Funding for genomics innovation partnerships
    Alberta, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • From $100,000 to $2,000,000
    • Up to 33% of project cost
    Types of eligible projects
    CommercializationTechnologyInnovation
    Timeline
    • Closing date : March 17, 2025
    Alberta, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Canada
  • GoodLife Kids Foundation logo
    Grant and FundingClosed

    GoodLife Kids Foundation - MOVE Program

    Free fitness program for youth with disabilities
    Alberta, NS, Ontario, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • Varies by project
    Eligible Industries
    • Health care and social assistance
    • Arts, entertainment and recreation
    Types of eligible projects
    Innovation
    Alberta, NS, Ontario, Canada
  • Branch Out Neurological Foundation (BONF) logo
    Researchers And FacilitiesPartnering and CollaborationGrant and FundingClosed

    Graduate Grant

    Matched funding for NeuroCAM graduate research
    Alberta, NS, Ontario, Saskatchewan, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • Maximum amount : 22,000 $
    Types of eligible projects
    Innovation
    Timeline
    • Open Date : January 31, 2026
    • Closing date : March 31, 2026
    Alberta, NS, Ontario, Saskatchewan, Canada
  • Alberta Innovates logo
    Grant and FundingClosed

    Graduate Student Scholarships

    Scholarships for full-time graduate research in emerging technologies
    Alberta, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • From $12,000 to $31,000
    Types of eligible projects
    Artificial Intelligence (AI)InnovationDigital Transformation
    Timeline
    • Closing date : December 1, 2025
    Alberta, Canada
  • Government of Alberta logo
    Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • Maximum amount : 25,000 $
    • Up to 50% of project cost
    Eligible Industries
    • Information and cultural industries
    • Arts, entertainment and recreation
    • Public administration
    Types of eligible projects
    CommercializationInnovation
    Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
  • Alberta Innovates logo
    Other SupportResearchers And FacilitiesPartnering and CollaborationGrant and FundingWage Subsidies And InternsClosed

    High School Youth Researcher Summer Program

    Paid summer health research experience for high school students
    Alberta, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • From $3,000 to $3,000
    Types of eligible projects
    Innovation
    Timeline
    • Closing date : March 16, 2026
    Alberta, Canada
  • Government of Canada logo
    Grant and FundingClosed

    IDEaS - Pop Up City Contest

    Integrated camp utility systems challenge
    Manitoba, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • From $10,000 to $2,000,000
    • Up to 100% of project cost
    Types of eligible projects
    CommercializationTechnologyEnvironment and ClimateInnovation
    Timeline
    • Closing date : December 13, 2019
    Manitoba, Canada
  • Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) logo
    Researchers And FacilitiesPartnering and CollaborationGrant and FundingClosed

    Impact Canada Cleantech Challenge – Women in Cleantech

    National support for women cleantech entrepreneurs
    Alberta, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • Maximum amount : 1,000,000 $
    Eligible Industries
    • Mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction
    • Manufacturing
    • Professional, scientific and technical services
    Types of eligible projects
    CommercializationEnvironment and ClimateInnovation
    Alberta, Canada
  • Genome Alberta logo
    Grant and FundingClosed

    Indigenous Genomics Training and Capacity Program – Alberta

    Supports Indigenous-led genomics capacity building
    Alberta, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • Maximum amount : 400,000 $
    Types of eligible projects
    Environment and ClimateInnovation
    Timeline
    • Closing date : September 15, 2025
    Alberta, Canada
  • Government of Alberta logo
    Partnering and CollaborationGrant and FundingClosed

    Industry Advancement Grant

    Funding for Alberta transportation industry projects
    Alberta, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • Maximum amount : 1,000,000 $
    Eligible Industries
    • Transportation and warehousing
    Types of eligible projects
    CommercializationInnovationDigital Transformation
    Alberta, Canada
  • Government of Manitoba logo
    Grant and FundingClosed

    Innovation Growth Program

    Support for innovative product commercialization in Manitoba
    Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • Maximum amount : 100,000 $
    • Up to 50% of project cost
    Types of eligible projects
    CommercializationConstruction and Renovation Innovation
    Timeline
    • Closing date : December 15, 2024
    Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
  • Government of Alberta logo
    Other SupportGrant and FundingWage Subsidies And InternsClosed

    Integrated Training Program

    Competency-based training for employment
    Alberta, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • Varies by project
    Eligible Industries
    • Educational services
    Types of eligible projects
    Human ResourcesInnovation
    Alberta, Canada
  • Kurling for Kids (K4K) logo
    Grant and FundingClosed

    Kurling for Kids - Annual Fundraising Campaign

    Fundraising campaign supporting children’s hospitals
    Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • Varies by project
    Eligible Industries
    • Arts, entertainment and recreation
    Types of eligible projects
    CommercializationInnovation
    Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec, Canada
  • Alberta Innovates logo
    Researchers And FacilitiesGrant and FundingClosed

    Life Science Fellowships

    Support for life science startup commercialization
    Alberta, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • Maximum amount : 200,000 $
    Types of eligible projects
    CommercializationInnovation
    Timeline
    • Closing date : January 30, 2021
    Alberta, Canada
  • Local Investment Toward Employment Inc. (LITE) logo
    Partnering and CollaborationGrant and FundingClosed

    LITE Granting Program (Job Grants & Springboard Jobs Fund)

    Employment support for barriered job seekers
    Manitoba, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • From $25 to $350
    Eligible Industries
    • Health care and social assistance
    • Arts, entertainment and recreation
    • Other services (except public administration)
    • Public administration
    Types of eligible projects
    Human ResourcesInnovation
    Manitoba, Canada
  • Manitoba Arts Council (MAC) logo
    Grant and FundingClosed

    MAC — Artists in Communities

    Arts funding for underserved communities
    Manitoba, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • From $1,000 to $15,000
    Eligible Industries
    • Arts, entertainment and recreation
    Types of eligible projects
    CommercializationInnovation
    Manitoba, Canada
  • Manitoba Arts Council (MAC) logo
    Partnering and CollaborationGrant and FundingClosed

    MAC — Artists in Schools

    Arts experiences for Manitoba students
    Manitoba, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • Maximum amount : 15,000 $
    • Up to 100% of project cost
    Eligible Industries
    • Educational services
    Types of eligible projects
    Innovation
    Manitoba, Canada
  • Manitoba Arts Council (MAC) logo
    Grant and FundingClosed

    MAC — Create

    Support for artistic creation and development
    Manitoba, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • Maximum amount : 15,000 $
    Eligible Industries
    • Arts, entertainment and recreation
    Types of eligible projects
    Innovation
    Manitoba, Canada
  • Manitoba Arts Council (MAC) logo
    Grant and FundingClosed

    MAC — Operate

    Supports ongoing arts organization operations
    Manitoba, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • From $20,000 to $750,000
    • Up to 40% of project cost
    Types of eligible projects
    Human ResourcesBusiness BuyoutInnovation
    Timeline
    • Closing date : January 25, 2026
    Manitoba, Canada
  • Manitoba Arts Council (MAC) logo
    Other SupportGrant and FundingClosed

    MAC — Strengthen

    Support for arts organizations to strengthen capacity
    Manitoba, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • Maximum amount : 5,000 $
    Eligible Industries
    • Arts, entertainment and recreation
    Types of eligible projects
    InnovationDigital Transformation
    Manitoba, Canada
  • Government of Manitoba logo
    Grant and FundingClosed

    Manitoba — Research and Innovation

    Funding for agriculture and agri-food R&D and innovation in Manitoba
    Manitoba, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • Up to 50% of project cost
    Eligible Industries
    • Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
    • Manufacturing
    • Professional, scientific and technical services
    Types of eligible projects
    TechnologyEnvironment and ClimateConstruction and Renovation Innovation
    Manitoba, Canada
  • Government of Manitoba logo
    Grant and FundingClosed

    Manitoba Child Benefit Regulation, M.R. 85/2008

    Monthly child benefit support in Manitoba
    Manitoba, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • From $35 to $84
    • Up to 80% of project cost
    Eligible Industries
    • Public administration
    Types of eligible projects
    Innovation
    Manitoba, Canada
  • Alberta Innovates logo
    Researchers And FacilitiesPartnering and CollaborationGrant and FundingClosed

    mCannabis

    Funding for cannabis-based pain research
    Alberta, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • Maximum amount : 300,000 $
    Types of eligible projects
    CommercializationArtificial Intelligence (AI)Innovation
    Timeline
    • Closing date : June 1, 2023
    Alberta, Canada
  • Alberta Innovates logo
    Researchers And FacilitiesPartnering and CollaborationGrant and FundingClosed

    mCannabis.RealWorld

    Real-world cannabis research funding for health innovation
    Alberta, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • Maximum amount : 300,000 $
    Types of eligible projects
    Innovation
    Timeline
    • Closing date : June 1, 2023
    Alberta, Canada
  • Mental Health Commission of Canada logo
    Partnering and CollaborationGrant and FundingClosed

    Mental Health Grants and Awards

    Funding for mental health research and innovation
    BC, NB, Ontario, Saskatchewan, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • From $5,000 to $138,000
    Eligible Industries
    • Health care and social assistance
    Types of eligible projects
    InnovationDigital Transformation
    BC, NB, Ontario, Saskatchewan, Canada
  • CWB Welding Foundation (CWB) logo
    Partnering and CollaborationGrant and FundingClosed

    Mind Over Metal™ Camps

    Hands-on welding camps for youth
    Manitoba, Ontario, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • Varies by project
    Types of eligible projects
    Construction and Renovation Innovation
    Timeline
    • Closing date : February 28, 2026
    Manitoba, Ontario, Canada
  • Saskatchewan Health Research Foundation  (SHRF) logo
    Grant and FundingClosed

    Mobilize Grant - Truth & Action

    Knowledge mobilization for health research and reconciliation
    Saskatchewan, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • Maximum amount : 10,000 $
    Types of eligible projects
    Innovation
    Timeline
    • Open Date : February 3, 2026
    • Closing date : April 2, 2026
    Saskatchewan, Canada
  • Pembina-Manitou Area Foundation (PMAF) logo
    Grant and FundingClosed

    Pembina-Manitou Area Foundation Grants

    Local funding for community projects and charities
    Manitoba, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • Varies by project
    Eligible Industries
    • Educational services
    • Health care and social assistance
    • Arts, entertainment and recreation
    Types of eligible projects
    Construction and Renovation InnovationDigital Transformation
    Manitoba, Canada
  • Prairies Economic Development Canada (PrairiesCan) logo
    Grant and FundingLoans and Capital investmentsClosed

    PrairiesCan — Aerospace Regional Recovery Initiative — Indigenous Stream

    Funding to recover Canada’s Indigenous-led aerospace sector in the Prairie region
    Alberta, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • Maximum amount : 10,000,000 $
    • Up to 75% of project cost
    Eligible Industries
    • Manufacturing
    • Transportation and warehousing
    Types of eligible projects
    Innovation
    Alberta, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Canada
  • Calgary Apraxia logo
    Grant and FundingClosed

    Program Unit Funding (PUF)

    Funding for early childhood support
    Alberta, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • Varies by project
    Eligible Industries
    • Educational services
    Types of eligible projects
    Innovation
    Alberta, Canada
  • Government of Alberta logo
    Partnering and CollaborationGrant and FundingClosed

    Rangeland Sustainability Program (RSP)

    Supports collaborative projects for sustainable rangeland management in Alberta
    Alberta, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • Varies by project
    Eligible Industries
    • Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
    • Educational services
    • Other services (except public administration)
    • Public administration
    Types of eligible projects
    Environment and ClimateInnovation
    Alberta, Canada
  • Government of Canada logo
    Grant and FundingLoans and Capital investmentsClosed

    Regional Quantum Initiative (RQI) in the Prairie Provinces

    Funding for quantum commercialization in Alberta
    Alberta, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • Up to 50% of project cost
    Eligible Industries
    • Professional, scientific and technical services
    Types of eligible projects
    CommercializationInnovation
    Alberta, Canada
  • Emissions Reduction Alberta (ERA) logo
    Researchers And FacilitiesPartnering and CollaborationGrant and FundingExpert AdviceClosed

    Reshaping Energy Systems

    Funding for Alberta energy system innovation
    Alberta, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • From $250,000 to $10,000,000
    • Up to 50% of project cost
    Types of eligible projects
    CommercializationArtificial Intelligence (AI)TechnologyEnvironment and ClimateInnovationDigital Transformation
    Timeline
    • Closing date : June 15, 2023
    Alberta, Canada
  • Rotary Club of Brandon logo
    Grant and FundingClosed

    Rotary Club of Brandon — General Community Funding

    Community funding for local Westman projects
    Manitoba, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • Varies by project
    Eligible Industries
    • Educational services
    • Health care and social assistance
    • Arts, entertainment and recreation
    • Other services (except public administration)
    Types of eligible projects
    Environment and ClimateConstruction and Renovation Innovation
    Manitoba, Canada
  • Government of Saskatchewan logo
    Grant and FundingClosed

    Saskatchewan Arts Board Grants

    Grants for arts sector projects in Saskatchewan
    Saskatchewan, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • Varies by project
    Types of eligible projects
    Environment and ClimateInnovation
    Timeline
    • Open Date : November 11, 2024
    • Closing date : December 1, 2024
    Saskatchewan, Canada
  • Government of Saskatchewan logo
    Partnering and CollaborationGrant and FundingClosed

    Saskatchewan First Nations and Métis Community Partnership Projects

    Funding for innovative partnership projects in Saskatchewan
    Saskatchewan, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • Maximum amount : 45,000 $
    • Up to 40% of project cost
    Types of eligible projects
    Innovation
    Timeline
    • Open Date : September 1, 2026
    • Closing date : October 31, 2026
    Saskatchewan, Canada
  • Creative Saskatchewan logo
    Other SupportGrant and FundingClosed

    Showcase or Sell Travel Grant

    Travel support for creative market opportunities
    Saskatchewan, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • Maximum amount : 5,000 $
    • Up to 50% of project cost
    Types of eligible projects
    CommercializationConstruction and Renovation InnovationDigital Transformation
    Timeline
    • Open Date : April 22, 2026
    • Closing date : May 22, 2026
    Saskatchewan, Canada
  • Saskatchewan Health Research Foundation  (SHRF) logo
    Grant and FundingClosed

    SHRF — Establishment Grant

    Support for early-career health researchers
    Saskatchewan, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • Maximum amount : 150,000 $
    Types of eligible projects
    Construction and Renovation Innovation
    Timeline
    • Closing date : March 12, 2026
    Saskatchewan, Canada
  • McCaig Institute for Bone and Joint Health logo
    Researchers And FacilitiesPartnering and CollaborationGrant and FundingClosed

    SPARC Ignite Grants

    Funding for new bone and joint health research collaborations
    Calgary, Alberta, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • Maximum amount : 20,000 $
    Eligible Industries
    • Professional, scientific and technical services
    • Health care and social assistance
    Types of eligible projects
    Artificial Intelligence (AI)Innovation
    Calgary, Alberta, Canada
  • Smart Sustainable Resilient Infrastructure Association (SSRIA) logo
    Grant and FundingExpert AdviceClosed

    SSRIA – Innovation Fund

    Funding for innovative low-carbon building projects
    Alberta, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • Maximum amount : 300,000 $
    • Up to 70% of project cost
    Types of eligible projects
    Environment and ClimateConstruction and Renovation Innovation
    Timeline
    • Open Date : July 8, 2024
    • Closing date : August 9, 2024
    Alberta, Canada
  • Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation (MASC) logo
    Loans and Capital investmentsClosed

    Stocker Loan Program

    Short-term livestock financing for Manitoba producers
    Manitoba, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • Maximum amount : 1,600,000 $
    • Up to 25% of project cost
    Eligible Industries
    • Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
    Types of eligible projects
    Innovation
    Manitoba, Canada
  • Alberta Innovates logo
    Researchers And FacilitiesPartnering and CollaborationGrant and FundingClosed

    Support for technological entrepreneurship

    Support for technological entrepreneurship in Quebec
    Alberta, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • Varies by project
    Eligible Industries
    • Professional, scientific and technical services
    • Educational services
    Types of eligible projects
    Artificial Intelligence (AI)TechnologyInnovation
    Alberta, Canada
  • Manitoba Housing (MHRC) logo
    Grant and FundingClosed

    Sustainable CAP — Food Safety Implementation Support

    Funding for food safety and traceability improvements
    Manitoba, Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • Maximum amount : 30,000 $
    • Up to 60% of project cost
    Types of eligible projects
    InnovationDigital Transformation
    Timeline
    • Open Date : June 6, 2024
    • Closing date : January 23, 2025
    Manitoba, Canada
  • Tali's Fund logo
    Partnering and CollaborationGrant and FundingClosed

    Tali's Fund — Research and Family Support

    Support for childhood brain cancer research and families
    Canada
    Eligible Funding
    • Varies by project
    Eligible Industries
    • Health care and social assistance
    Types of eligible projects
    Innovation
    Canada

About this directory

What else should I know about Innovation Grants in the Canadian Prairies?

Innovation grants in the Canadian Prairies: purpose and scope

Innovation grants in the Canadian Prairies provide non‑dilutive funding for research and development (R&D), technology development, commercialization, pilot and demonstration projects, and scale‑up. Spanning Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba, the landscape combines federal programs (NRC IRAP, PrairiesCan, NSERC, Mitacs, SDTC, CFI), provincial initiatives (Alberta Innovates, Emissions Reduction Alberta, Innovation Saskatchewan, Research Manitoba, Manitoba Innovation Growth Program), municipal and city‑specific incentives (Calgary, Edmonton, Saskatoon, Regina, Winnipeg), and sector programs (agri‑food, clean technology, advanced manufacturing, digital health, AI/ML). These grants, subsidies, and incentives work alongside SR&ED tax credits, innovation vouchers, and repayable or non‑repayable contributions to de‑risk innovation and accelerate commercialization across the Prairies.

How innovation funding supports R&D, commercialization, and scale‑up

Public funding reduces technical and market risk by cost‑sharing eligible expenses across the innovation lifecycle. Organizations can access feasibility study funding, proof‑of‑concept and prototyping grants, pilot and demonstration funding for TRL advancement, and commercialization grants to validate product‑market fit, scale production, and enter export markets. Programs prioritize outcomes such as productivity gains, emissions reduction, job creation, and global competitiveness, while encouraging collaborative R&D with universities and colleges through NSERC Alliance, Mitacs Accelerate/Elevate, and the College and Community Innovation Program. For Prairie SMEs, non‑dilutive funding complements private investment and venture matching, enabling growth without equity dilution.

Federal and pan‑Canadian programs serving Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba

NRC IRAP grants (Industrial Research Assistance Program)

NRC IRAP supports innovative SMEs undertaking technology development and R&D projects with clear commercialization potential. Eligible activities often include applied research, experimental development, software innovation, engineering design, and product validation when led by a Canadian SME with technical capacity. IRAP grants can cover a portion of labour and subcontracting costs, while emphasizing project plans, milestones, and market pathways. Many Prairie software, AI/ML, agtech, medtech, and advanced manufacturing firms use IRAP alongside SR&ED to sustain continuous R&D.

SR&ED tax credit in the Prairies

SR&ED (the Scientific Research and Experimental Development tax incentive) provides refundable or non‑refundable tax credits for eligible R&D. In the Prairies, SR&ED can be combined with grants (“grant stacking”) when programs allow, provided applicants respect contribution ratios and avoid double‑counting costs. SR&ED is especially powerful for iterative R&D in software, ag‑robotics, cleantech, and manufacturing automation, and can be planned with IRAP, Mitacs, and provincial programs to create a durable innovation finance stack.

Prairies Economic Development Canada (PrairiesCan) funding

PrairiesCan delivers growth‑oriented programs that address productivity, commercialization, and regional development.

Business Scale‑up and Productivity (BSP)

BSP supports high‑growth firms investing in commercialization, productivity improvements, and expansion. Projects frequently include advanced manufacturing upgrades, market expansion, and technology adoption. Matching funds and repayment terms may apply, making BSP suitable for SMEs moving from pilot to production scale.

Jobs and Growth Fund (JGF)

The JGF targets job creation, inclusive recovery, and green transformation. Prairie projects often align with clean technology, digital adoption, and inclusive innovation initiatives involving women, Indigenous, newcomer, and rural entrepreneurs.

Ecosystem and cluster funding

PrairiesCan also invests in innovation ecosystem projects, including incubators, accelerators, cluster funding, and community infrastructure that supports commercialization and export readiness across Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba.

Sustainable Development Technology Canada (SDTC) funding

SDTC supports Canadian cleantech companies advancing climate, water, and clean economy innovations. In the Prairies, SDTC funding often complements Emissions Reduction Alberta, hydrogen and CCUS pilots, grid modernization projects, and ag‑cleantech demonstrations. Applicants typically demonstrate technology readiness, strong partnerships, and credible emissions reduction potential.

NSERC, Mitacs, CFI, and college‑industry programs

NSERC Alliance grants support university‑industry R&D collaborations, while Mitacs Accelerate and Elevate fund graduate and postdoctoral talent placements in industry. The Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI), including the John R. Evans Leaders Fund (JELF), invests in research infrastructure at Prairie institutions. The College and Community Innovation Program builds applied research capacity for SMEs, enabling prototyping, validation, and product testing with college research centres across the Prairies.

Global Innovation Clusters and superclusters

Prairie innovators can participate in Global Innovation Clusters, including protein innovation collaborations, digital and data projects, and sector‑specific initiatives in manufacturing, aerospace, and health. Cluster funding supports collaborative R&D, technology transfer, IP strategy, and commercialization mentorship, accelerating time to market.

Provincial innovation grants and incentives in the Prairies

Alberta innovation grants and incentives

Alberta Innovates funding and vouchers

Alberta Innovates offers programs for proof‑of‑concept, product development, and commercialization, including innovation vouchers and commercialization vouchers for SMEs. These instruments often fund contractor services, product validation, and market readiness, and are widely used by software, AI/ML, agtech, and medtech startups in Calgary, Edmonton, and regional hubs.

Emissions Reduction Alberta (ERA) programs

ERA supports clean technology pilots and demonstrations that reduce emissions in energy, industry, and communities. Calls may target CCUS, methane reduction, hydrogen, grid modernization, or industrial efficiency. Projects typically require matching funds, multi‑stakeholder partnerships, and robust measurement, reporting, and verification (MRV) plans.

Digital adoption and manufacturing productivity

Alberta programs, often aligned with federal initiatives, help manufacturers adopt Industry 4.0 technologies, robotics, additive manufacturing, and smart factory solutions. These productivity and innovation funding streams enable upgrades that increase throughput, quality, and export competitiveness.

Saskatchewan innovation funding

Innovation Saskatchewan and SAIF

Innovation Saskatchewan manages programs that build provincial innovation capacity, with the Saskatchewan Advantage Innovation Fund (SAIF) supporting commercialization activities for high‑potential technologies. AI, agtech, mining technology, and software firms in Saskatoon and Regina commonly use these supports to bridge from prototype to first customers.

Mining, agtech, and critical minerals innovation

Saskatchewan’s innovation agenda includes critical minerals processing, mining safety technologies, autonomous systems for northern operations, and precision agriculture. Pilot and demonstration funding helps de‑risk deployments at mines, farms, and processing facilities, often supported by industry partners and university‑industry collaborations.

Manitoba innovation grants

Research Manitoba

Research Manitoba funds health research, clinical validation, and industry‑academic collaborations. Winnipeg’s life sciences and digital health ecosystem leverages these grants for trials, product validation, and data science applications in hospitals and clinics.

Manitoba Innovation Growth Program (IGP)

The IGP supports commercialization, market expansion, and productivity improvements for Manitoba firms, including advanced manufacturing and aerospace MRO, agri‑food processing, and software scale‑ups. Cost‑share structures encourage private investment and disciplined commercialization roadmaps.

Sector‑specific priorities across the Prairies

Agri‑food and sustainable agriculture innovation

AgriInnovate and AgriScience, alongside the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership, back Prairie projects in protein processing, precision agriculture, robotics, irrigation innovation, drought resilience, and food safety. Manitoba’s protein ecosystem, Saskatchewan’s crop science, and Alberta’s ag‑robotics hubs benefit from proof‑of‑concept funding, prototyping grants, and pilot support for on‑farm trials.

Energy and clean technology (hydrogen, CCUS, grid modernization)

The Prairie energy transition blends emissions reduction in oil and gas with renewable energy integration, hydrogen supply chains, and carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS). Grants support technology pilots for methane reduction, carbon accounting and MRV tools, water technologies, and waste‑to‑energy solutions. Alberta’s ecosystem includes hydrogen innovation funding and CCUS demonstrations, supported by ERA, SDTC, and industry partners.

Advanced manufacturing and Industry 4.0

Manufacturers across Calgary, Edmonton, Red Deer, Saskatoon, Regina, and Winnipeg can access grants for smart manufacturing, robotics, automation, additive manufacturing, and supply chain innovation. Programs emphasize productivity and innovation funding that increases capacity, reduces scrap, and improves data‑driven decision‑making through digital twins and real‑time analytics.

Digital technology: AI/ML, software, cybersecurity, quantum

Software innovation grants and IRAP projects fuel AI/ML R&D, cybersecurity products for critical infrastructure, quantum sensing pilots, and data science applications. Prairie companies frequently combine IRAP with NSERC Alliance collaborations to accelerate algorithm development, prototyping, and commercialization, while leveraging Mitacs to recruit specialized talent.

Life sciences and digital health

Prairie medtech and digital health firms seek product validation funding, clinical trial support grants, and regulatory pathway guidance. Research Manitoba, NSERC, and Mitacs programs, along with hospital partnerships in Edmonton, Calgary, Saskatoon, and Winnipeg, enable evidence generation, health economics assessments, and pilot deployments for virtual care and mental health tools.

Mining, critical minerals, and northern innovation

Saskatchewan’s critical minerals and northern operations spur innovation in processing efficiency, safety technologies, remote sensing, UAV/drone applications, and autonomous systems. Pilot and demonstration funding supports field validation in challenging environments, often requiring robust safety, environmental, and community engagement plans.

Aerospace and transportation

Winnipeg’s aerospace cluster and Prairie transportation corridors benefit from grants for MRO innovation, additive manufacturing for components, logistics optimization, and smart, low‑emission mobility pilots. Projects may include UAV/drone applications, cold‑chain technology, and smart logistics in Regina and Saskatoon.

Smart cities, broadband, and 5G testbeds

Municipal and regional initiatives co‑fund smart city pilots, broadband and rural connectivity upgrades, and 5G testbeds in Calgary and Edmonton. Grants support IoT sensors, edge computing, data platforms, and cybersecurity for urban operations, with emphasis on measurable outcomes and citizen benefits.

Eligibility, application steps, and matching funds

Common eligibility criteria for Prairie innovation grants

Most programs target for‑profit SMEs registered in Canada, with operations or project impacts in the Prairies. Applicants should demonstrate technical merit, commercialization potential, financial capacity, and qualified personnel. Inclusive programs encourage participation by Indigenous innovators, women entrepreneurs, newcomers, and rural or northern organizations, often with dedicated streams.

How to apply for grants and manage timelines

Applications typically require a project summary, problem statement, technical approach, work plan, TRL baseline and targets, budget, matching funds, risk management, IP strategy, and commercialization roadmap. Deadlines vary between open, continuous intake, and competitive calls. Applicants should allow time for partner letters, ethics or permitting (where relevant), and internal approvals. Maintaining a grant calendar helps track innovation grant deadlines across Alberta Innovates, Innovation Saskatchewan, Research Manitoba, IRAP, SDTC, NSERC, Mitacs, and PrairiesCan.

Understanding contributions: repayable vs non‑repayable

Grants may be non‑repayable contributions, while some programs (e.g., PrairiesCan BSP) can use repayable or conditionally repayable terms. Cost‑share ratios and matching fund requirements are common. Clear budgeting, cash‑flow planning, and documentation of incurred costs improve compliance and audit readiness.

Grant stacking and SR&ED planning

Grant stacking allows multiple supports on a project when program rules permit, often with ceilings per cost category. Coordinating IRAP with SR&ED, or provincial grants with federal supports, requires careful allocation, time tracking, and documentation to avoid double funding. Seek guidance on how SR&ED interacts with cost‑shared grants to maximize non‑dilutive funding while staying compliant.

TRL progression, pilots, and demonstrations

Many programs reference technology readiness level (TRL) frameworks. Earlier TRLs receive proof‑of‑concept and prototyping grants; mid‑TRLs qualify for product validation funding; higher TRLs may seek pilot and demonstration funding in real‑world settings. Projects must show credible test plans, success metrics, and data collection for performance and environmental outcomes.

IP strategy, technology transfer, and university‑industry partnerships

Programs value strong intellectual property strategies, including freedom‑to‑operate assessments, patent plans, and data governance. Technology transfer grants and industry partnership funding encourage licensing, co‑development, and commercialization mentorship. NSERC Alliance and Mitacs facilitate collaborative R&D and talent placement funding that align with a company’s commercialization roadmap.

Inclusive innovation and targeted streams

Dedicated supports exist for Indigenous innovation grants, Métis entrepreneurship, women in innovation grants, youth innovation, and francophone innovators in Manitoba. Rural innovation funding and northern and remote grants help address geographic challenges, broadband connectivity, and smart agriculture deployment. Applicants should review program guides for inclusive criteria, governance, and community engagement best practices.

City‑specific opportunities and local ecosystems

Calgary and Edmonton (Alberta)

Calgary and Edmonton host robust ecosystems for AI/ML, energy innovation, hydrogen, CCUS, and 5G testbeds. City‑specific grants and incubator programs complement Alberta Innovates vouchers, IRAP projects, and ERA demonstrations. Startups can also explore grant writing help, mentorship, and challenge prizes for open innovation.

Saskatoon and Regina (Saskatchewan)

Saskatoon’s biotech and agtech strengths and Regina’s clean transportation and logistics pilots create opportunities for SAIF‑backed commercialization, NSERC Alliance collaborations, and Mitacs placements. Mining tech pilot funding and critical minerals innovation add depth to the province’s portfolio.

Winnipeg (Manitoba)

Winnipeg’s aerospace, advanced manufacturing, and digital health communities rely on Research Manitoba, the Innovation Growth Program, IRAP, NSERC, and CFI infrastructure grants. Local programs support robotics and automation grants for manufacturers, food processing innovation grants, and social innovation initiatives.

Measurement, reporting, procurement, and risk management

Impact measurement and MRV

Clean technology, grid modernization, and climate innovation funding require rigorous measurement, reporting, and verification (MRV) for emissions, energy savings, and environmental outcomes. Establishing baselines, selecting appropriate methodologies, and validating results are critical to unlocking milestone payments and future funding.

Procurement innovation and challenge programs

Open, challenge, and prize programs, as well as innovative procurement pilots, allow solution providers to validate technologies with public buyers. These opportunities can accelerate adoption and offer reference customers, complementing commercialization grants and export market development funding.

Common pitfalls and how to avoid them

Frequent issues include under‑scoped milestones, insufficient matching funds, late partner commitments, and weak commercialization plans. Address these by aligning scope with TRL, securing letters of support early, mapping a realistic route‑to‑market, and budgeting contingency. Keep records for audits and align your SR&ED strategy with grant cost claims.

Building a practical funding strategy

A resilient strategy blends non‑dilutive grants, repayable contributions, and SR&ED, phased by TRL and commercialization milestones. Manufacturers might prioritize productivity and Industry 4.0 funding; software firms may pair IRAP with AI/ML commercialization grants; cleantech ventures could combine SDTC with ERA pilots and PrairiesCan scale‑up support. University‑industry partnerships through NSERC and Mitacs can de‑risk R&D while building talent pipelines.

Conclusion: A clear path to non‑dilutive funding in the Prairies

The Prairie innovation ecosystem offers a comprehensive portfolio of public funding: IRAP grants, PrairiesCan BSP, SR&ED tax incentives, SDTC cleantech funding, provincial innovation programs (Alberta Innovates, ERA, Innovation Saskatchewan, Research Manitoba, IGP), and sector‑specific opportunities in agri‑food, energy, manufacturing, digital, life sciences, mining, and aerospace. By understanding eligibility, TRL requirements, grant stacking, and application timelines, organizations can secure the right mix of grants and contributions to advance R&D, commercialization, and scale‑up. Expert guidance and digital tools can streamline discovery, eligibility checks, and submission quality—helping Prairie innovators turn complex programs into practical, non‑dilutive financing.