How much funding can be received?

The Digital Innovation in Clean Energy (DICE) program supports the development of digital technologies aimed at reducing emissions in the energy sector, improving energy production efficiency, and creating jobs in the digital economy. Eligible activities include the development of AI, machine learning, blockchain, IoT, drones, VR/AR, and digital twins, among others, for projects at Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) 3-7. The program offers funding up to $250,000 per project, covering up to 50% of total project costs.

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This grant encourages applications from companies worldwide as long as they demonstrate a clear value proposition for Alberta. It aims to leverage global expertise while focusing on regional benefits.

Companies not necessarily based in Alberta but can demonstrate a benefit for the province.
Businesses that can showcase alignment with Alberta Innovates' strategic priorities.
Organizations with legal standing to operate and form agreements within Alberta.

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The eligibility criteria for this grant require adherence to specific organizational and project-related requisites.

The applicant must exist as a corporate person, with up-to-date corporate filings.
Applicants must be authorized to undertake the proposed project and execute a grant with Alberta Innovates on their standard terms.
The organization, if not based in Alberta, must demonstrate a clear value proposition for the province.
Applicants should not have any past bad debt and must be in good financial standing with Alberta Innovates or its subsidiaries.
Applicants must be incorporated in Alberta and/or extra-provincially registered in Alberta.
To qualify as a small or medium-sized enterprise (SME), a company must have fewer than 500 full-time employees and less than $50,000,000 in annual gross revenue.
Collaboration with other project partners is highly encouraged, and projects demonstrating end-user engagement and formal partnerships will receive additional consideration.
Proposed projects that demonstrate HQP (highly qualified personnel) capacity-building in Alberta will receive additional consideration for funding.
Applicants must be legally able to execute the Investment Agreement.

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The Digital Innovation in Clean Energy (DICE) program is inclusive, allowing a variety of applicants to be eligible for funding, provided they demonstrate a clear value proposition for Alberta and align with program objectives.

Technology developers seeking to innovate within the energy sector.
Industry players and industrial associations advancing cleantech innovations.
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) involved in digital economy development.
Research and development (R&D) organizations working on energy efficiency technologies.
Post-secondary institutions proposing projects that integrate digital solutions in energy production.
Municipalities with projects aimed at reducing energy sector emissions.
Not-for-profit organizations contributing to the development of clean energy technologies.
Government research labs focused on digital innovations in the energy sector.

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There are no explicit exclusions or restrictions detailed in the grant description regarding the types of companies or industries that cannot apply. Therefore, specific ineligibility criteria cannot be determined from the provided context.

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The Digital Innovation in Clean Energy program funds projects that enhance digital capabilities and environmental sustainability in the energy sector. Eligible activities focus on technology development and process optimization to reduce emissions and improve efficiency.

Development of smart grid and distributed energy management systems.
Integration and management of renewable energy and energy storage solutions.
Optimization of production processes in oil sands to increase yield and efficiency.
Implementation of digital technologies for emission reduction and environmental performance improvement.
Development of water treatment and management innovations in the energy sector.
Creation of digital solutions for environmental monitoring and maintenance.
Research into digital twins and VR/AR for project execution and operational management.

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The grant covers specific expenses directly related to the implementation and success of the project.

Labour costs for individuals specifically identified as working on the project.
Reasonable material costs specific to project usage.
Capital equipment, software, and information database costs pro-rated to the project's time frame based on the asset's expected economic life.
Travel expenses, including mileage, economy airfare, and accommodation, necessary for project execution.
Sub-contractor services or products from another entity.
Other costs pre-approved by Alberta Innovates as eligible expenses.

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The evaluation and selection of projects for the Digital Innovation in Clean Energy (DICE) program are guided by a structured assessment of innovation, execution, and impacts to ensure alignment with the program's objectives.

Innovation: Assesses the novelty and originality of the project, including market opportunity and competitive analysis.
Execution: Evaluates the project's management, including work plan, tasks, budget, funding commitment, and the qualifications of the project team.
Impacts: Considers the economic, environmental, and social impacts of the project, along with the proposed commercialization pathway and risk analysis and mitigation strategies.

grant_single_labels|register

Here are the steps to submit an application for this grant:

Step 1: Review Program Guide
- Download the DICE 3.0 Program Guide from the Alberta Innovates website.
- Carefully read and understand the program's objectives, funding criteria, and eligibility requirements.
Step 2: Register on SmartSimple
- Create an account on the SmartSimple online application portal provided by Alberta Innovates.
- Ensure all organization and contact information are accurately entered in the portal.
Step 3: Complete Detailed Proposal
- Access the application through the SmartSimple portal under the Funding Opportunities tab.
- Fill out the Detailed Proposal section thoroughly, addressing the evaluation criteria such as Innovation, Execution, and Impacts.
- Include all required supporting documents, such as budgets, timelines, and partner letters if applicable.
Step 4: Submit Proposal
- Review the entire application for completeness and accuracy before submission.
- Submit the Detailed Proposal through SmartSimple by the deadline of February 1, 2024, at 3:00 PM MST.
Step 5: Await Review Process
- After submission, wait for Alberta Innovates to review your application.
- Alberta Innovates will evaluate proposals and notify applicants of their funding status by May 1, 2024.

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The Digital Innovation in Clean Energy (DICE) program encourages collaboration with end users and requires detailed project milestones for funding release while promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in the research and innovation ecosystem.

Successful applications can receive up to $250,000 CAD for projects over 18 months.
The program normally supports up to 50% of total project costs, with the remaining funding from other project partners.
Alberta Innovates performs corporate, bankruptcy, and litigation searches, especially for non-post-secondary institution applicants.
The evaluation process includes internal and external expert reviewers to ensure objectivity and fairness.
Additional consideration is given to projects demonstrating end-user engagement, formal partnerships, and capacity building of highly qualified personnel (HQP) in Alberta.
Historically underrepresented groups in Alberta's R&I landscape are encouraged to apply, and DEI data is collected on a voluntary basis.
Applicants must provide milestone proof for funding disbursement, and project outcomes may be monitored up to five years post-completion.

grant_single_labels|contact

bruce.duong@albertainnovates.ca

587-779-2910

Apply to this program

Driving Forward Digital Innovation in Clean Energy

The Digital Innovation in Clean Energy (DICE) program offers strategic funding to empower the development of cutting-edge digital technologies that contribute to job creation and enhanced energy efficiency while also targeting emission reduction within the energy sector. It plays a pivotal role in fostering an innovative and sustainable energy landscape in Alberta and beyond.

Unlocking Potential: How the DICE Program Catalyzes Clean Energy Advancements

Digital Innovation in Clean Energy (DICE) is a visionary initiative designed to harness the transformative power of data and digital technologies to propel the clean energy sector into a new era of efficiency and sustainability. Spearheaded by Alberta Innovates, the program aligns with Alberta's Technology and Innovation Strategy (ATIS) 2030 innovation targets. It offers a substantial financial backing to projects that leverage digital advancements such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, digital twins, and the industrial Internet of Things (IoT) to optimize energy production processes and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

The program targets a wide array of emerging technologies with the potential to create groundbreaking advancements in clean energy. By providing financial support that can cover up to 50% of project costs, up to a maximum of $250,000, DICE encourages collaboration among technology developers, academic researchers, municipalities, and not-for-profits to innovate in areas ranging from smart energy management systems to renewable energy integration, and advanced hydrocarbons.

This targeted funding strategy not only enhances the economic landscape by creating jobs but also empowers various sectors to adopt more sustainable practices, thus fortifying Alberta's position as a leader in clean energy innovation. The grant places a special emphasis on optimizing resource extraction processes, advancing non-renewable and renewable energy sources, and supports initiatives aimed at methane emission reductions and water conservation in oil sands production.

Another critical aspect of the DICE program is its focus on projects that bring innovative environmental solutions to the table—solutions that extend beyond energy technologies to encompass areas such as land and water management and biodiversity monitoring. Projects selected for DICE funding must demonstrate considerable market opportunity, a clear commercialization pathway, and tangible economic impacts on Alberta’s economy, such as increased employment or resource revenue, which were critical in the nearly $26.2 million in reported economic impacts from previous project rounds.

The application process is structured in phases to ensure only the most promising projects receive backing. Potential applicants submit their proposals through the SmartSimple online portal, where they are then evaluated against criteria including innovation potential, execution strategy, and projected impacts. During the selection process, Alberta Innovates employs both internal expertise and external industry reviewers to ensure that chosen projects align closely with government priorities and strategic R&I goals.

Ultimately, the DICE grant exemplifies a forward-thinking approach to integrating digital solutions into the energy sector. By fostering an environment conducive to high-quality research and impactful technological development, Alberta Innovates ensures that initiatives supported under this program are not only transformative today but also pave the way for continued growth and sustainability in Alberta's clean energy landscape. This focused effort underpins Alberta's commitment to reduce its carbon footprint, stimulate economic diversification, and embrace cutting-edge digital innovations that will shape the future of energy production and management.