AI-Powered Supply Chains Cluster (Scale AI)
Canada
Funding to enhance supply chains with AI
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- grant_single|projectCostPercent
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- grant_single|timelineUnspecified
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Grant and Funding
grant_single|eligibleIndustries
- Construction
- Manufacturing
- Retail trade
- Transportation and warehousing
- Health care and social assistance
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- Scale AI Cluster
- Global Innovation Clusters (GIC)
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grant_card_status|open
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Get funding to cover up to 50% of the costs of collaborative projects that accelerate the adoption or commercialization of artificial intelligence (AI) for supply chains, when your SME partners with other Scale AI members.
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Here is a summary of the projects or activities eligible for this grant:
- Improved sourcing and procurement
- Demand forecasting and planning
- Integrated logistics/automated warehousing
- Capacity, resource utilization and inventory planning
- Scheduling and predictive disruption analysis
- Traceability and visibility of real-time data integration
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$50,000
Halifax
Use AI for traceability and visibility in food supply chain.
$25,000
Vancouver
Implement real-time data integration for logistics management.
$45,000
Montreal
Develop AI-powered scheduling system for manufacturing operations.
$50,000
Toronto
Integrate AI for demand forecasting in retail supply chains.
$50,000
Edmonton
Develop AI system for predictive disruption analysis in transport.
$45,000
Calgary
Create AI system for improved sourcing and procurement.
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The eligibility criteria for this grant are as follows:
- Compliance with Scale AI strategy
- Addition to regular business activities
- Involvement of several entities
- Participation of at least one SME
- Project readiness
- Work carried out in Canada
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This subsidy is intended for companies operating in various sectors, including:
- Consumer goods and retail
- Industrial and manufacturing goods
- Transportation and logistics
- Health care
- Infrastructure and construction
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Eligible expenses for this grant include:
- Wages, salaries or contracts to carry out project activities
- Costs of purchasing or leasing equipment, supplies or services essential to the project
- Transportation and accommodation costs
- Dissemination costs essential to project completion
- Capital expenditures related to the objectives of the project agreement and essential to the success of the project
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Projects are selected by Scale AI on the basis of their commercial viability and contribution to strategic objectives. Evaluation criteria include:
- Team and project management plan (25%)
- Business impact (20%)
- Strategic alignment with Scale AI's strategic plan (30%)
- Ecosystem impact (25%)
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Step 1: Submit your initial project proposal to Scale AI
Step 2: Work with the Scale AI team to prepare and submit a detailed proposal
Step 3: Scale AI evaluates your submission
Step 4: Finalize partnerships and agree project details
Step 5: Project completion and reimbursement of eligible expenses on a quarterly basis
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- Scale AI funds projects that contribute to its strategic objectives, such as AI adoption and the commercialization of AI-based products.
- Scale AI uses six eligibility conditions to evaluate projects, including alignment with Scale AI's strategy, being incremental to regular business, involving multiple participants, including SMEs, and having readiness for launch.
- Projects funded by Scale AI typically last from 12 to 18 months, and there is no maximum duration for a project, but they must be completed according to the agreed timeline.
- Scale AI provides up to 50% reimbursement of eligible project expenses, including salaries, equipment costs, dissemination expenses, and capital expenditures.
- Intellectual property (IP) created in Scale AI projects is owned by the project members, and neither the Government nor Scale AI will own any of the IP.
- Scale AI encourages collaboration between project partners and other members, aiming to develop Canada's AI ecosystem.
- Businesses in various sectors like consumer goods, retail, industrial goods, manufacturing, transport, logistics, healthcare, infrastructure, and construction can apply for funding from Scale AI.
- The selection process at Scale AI typically takes about one month to complete, depending on the responsiveness of project teams and feedback iterations.
- Funding provided by Scale AI is in the form of a grant and does not need to be repaid.
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info@scaleai.ca
Apply to this program
Industry-Led Projects Grant by Scale AI
The Industry-Led Projects Grant by Scale AI offers funding to help companies accelerate the adoption and commercialization of AI in their value chains. This grant covers up to 50% of project expenses and aims to establish Canada as a leader in intelligent value chains.
The Comprehensive Guide to the Industry-Led Projects Grant by Scale AI
In a rapidly evolving economic landscape, AI stands out as a transformative force that can significantly elevate a company’s operational efficiency and competitive edge. Scale AI, a Canadian supercluster, is dedicated to bringing AI from labs to the real world, fostering growth and innovation across various industries. This long-form content delves deeply into the Industry-Led Projects Grant offered by Scale AI, making the details accessible and comprehensible for businesses eager to leverage the potential of artificial intelligence.
Overview of Scale AI
Scale AI is a governmental initiative designed to foster the AI sector in Canada, propelling the country to the forefront of AI innovation and implementation. By financially supporting projects that adopt and commercialize AI technologies, Scale AI aims to create intelligent value chains that enhance productivity and competitiveness.
Objective of the Industry-Led Projects Grant
The primary objective of the Industry-Led Projects Grant is to facilitate the deployment of AI technologies within various industries. The grant aims to bridge the gap between AI research and practical application, thereby creating tangible business outcomes and enriching Canada’s AI ecosystem. The funding is oriented towards projects that can demonstrate significant improvements in value chain operations such as procurement, logistics, inventory planning, and real-time data integration.
Who Can Apply for the Grant?
Eligibility for the Industry-Led Projects Grant extends to a broad range of sectors including consumer goods and retail, industrial goods and manufacturing, transport and logistics, healthcare, and infrastructure and construction. The following entities are encouraged to apply:
- Value chain operators
- Value chain solutions providers
- AI and digital technology providers
Each project must involve multiple participants, including at least one SME (Small and Medium-sized Enterprise), and must be ready to launch soon after an investment decision is made by Scale AI.
Funding Details and Eligible Expenses
The Industry-Led Projects Grant covers up to 50% of project expenses, easing the financial burden on companies willing to embark on AI projects. There is no minimum or maximum investment allocated per project, allowing the grant to accommodate various project scales. Eligible expenses for reimbursement include:
- Salaries, wages, or contracts for project activities
- Costs of purchasing or renting essential equipment, supplies, or services
- Dissemination costs vital for performance of the project
- Capital expenditures linked to the project objectives
These funds are disbursed on a quarterly basis, ensuring continuous support throughout the project lifecycle.
Selection Criteria
Scale AI uses a set of transparent and objective criteria to evaluate project proposals. Projects must meet the following six eligibility conditions:
- In Scope: The project must align with Scale AI’s strategic plan.
- Incremental to Regular Business: The project must be new, not funded by another government entity, and demonstrate that Scale AI funding is crucial for its realization.
- Multiple Participants: The project must involve more than one participating entity.
- SME Involvement: At least one SME must be included in the project.
- Readiness: The project must have the endorsement of the applicant’s CEO or other executive and be ready to launch shortly after an investment decision is made by Scale AI.
- Execution in Canada: All project work must be carried out within Canada.
The scoring criteria further refine the selection process, focusing on:
- Team and project management plan (25%)
- Business impact (20%)
- Strategic alignment to Scale AI’s strategic plan (30%)
- Ecosystem impact (25%)
Application Process
The application process for the Industry-Led Projects Grant is designed to be straightforward and business-friendly. Both Scale AI members and non-members can submit a project for evaluation. Non-members will need to become members before receiving funding. The steps are as follows:
- Submit your initial project proposal to Scale AI for an eligibility assessment.
- If eligible, collaborate with the Scale AI team to prepare and submit a detailed proposal.
The length of the selection process depends mainly on the project teams’ responsiveness. Once a comprehensive proposal is submitted, the selection process typically takes about one month.
Intellectual Property and Confidentiality
Projects funded by Scale AI have complete flexibility regarding the ownership of the intellectual property (IP) created. The IP ownership remains with the project members, and neither the Government nor Scale AI will claim ownership. However, the proposal should illustrate how the new IP and data generated can benefit the wider Scale AI ecosystem, beyond the immediate project participants.
To protect confidential information while discussing potential partnerships, it is advisable to have signed non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) in place. These agreements ensure the protection of sensitive data throughout the project lifecycle.
Support and Resources from Scale AI
Scale AI is committed to providing robust support throughout the project. This includes guidance from investment and intellectual property teams, as well as opportunities to connect with other Scale AI members for potential partnerships. Scale AI’s twice-weekly information webinars serve as a valuable resource for understanding the grant application process, funding details, and other aspects of the program.
Impact of the Grant
By supporting innovative and collaborative projects, Scale AI’s Industry-Led Projects Grant aims to create a lasting impact on Canada’s AI landscape. The grant fosters AI adoption across industries, driving productivity, enhancing competitiveness, and establishing Canada as a global leader in intelligent value chains. Successful projects contribute to the broader Canadian economy by improving operational efficiencies, reducing costs, and creating high-value jobs.
Final Thoughts
The Industry-Led Projects Grant by Scale AI presents a unique opportunity for businesses to leverage AI technologies and transform their value chains. By offering substantial financial support and fostering a collaborative ecosystem, Scale AI is paving the way for a future where AI-driven innovations drive economic growth and global competitiveness. For businesses poised to take the leap into artificial intelligence, this grant provides the essential resources and support to turn visionary projects into reality.
