Alberta Innovates — Strategic Networking and Development Program
AB, Canada
Unlock innovation and drive Alberta's tech ecosystem forward with up to $25,000 from the Strategic Networking and Development Program!
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- grant_single|maxCount
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- grant_single|timelineUnspecified
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Grant and Funding
grant_single|eligibleIndustries
- Professional, scientific and technical services
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- Alberta Innovates
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grant_card_status|open
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The Strategic Networking and Development Program by Alberta Innovates provides up to $25,000 in funding for events that focus on emerging technologies to inspire innovation, foster collaboration, and drive progress in Alberta. Eligible activities include focused networking events, workshops, hackathons, coding contests, symposia showcasing student capabilities, and entrepreneurial training for students. The program aims to connect Alberta’s tech talent with industry, academia, and government stakeholders while offering exceptional experiential learning opportunities.
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This grant allows entities not based in Alberta to apply, provided they demonstrate a clear value proposition for Alberta.
- Organizations from all geographical areas, as long as they show significant benefit to Alberta.
grant_single|admissibleProjectsExample
$20,000
Calgary
A hackathon on renewable energy solutions for university students
$25,000
Halifax
Team-based experiential learning project on clean water technologies for post-secondary students
$25,000
Edmonton
A workshop on artificial intelligence for students, researchers, and industry professionals
$22,000
Montreal
Entrepreneurial training program focusing on healthcare technology for youth
$18,000
Vancouver
A coding contest focusing on cybersecurity for high school students
$25,000
Toronto
A symposium showcasing student robotics projects to prospective employers
grant_single_labels|admissibility
To be eligible for this grant, companies must meet several specific criteria related to their organizational profile and project focus.
- The applicant must be a corporate person with current corporate filings.
- The entity must be authorized to undertake the proposed project and execute a grant with Alberta Innovates on standard terms.
- The applicant should not be prohibited from receiving funding by Alberta Innovates due to issues like past bad debt or poor financial standing.
- The applicant does not need to be based in Alberta but must show a clear value proposition for Alberta through their project.
- For-profit organizations will be considered based on the nature of their services, but non-profit organizations are preferred.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply
The Strategic Networking and Development Program is open to a variety of organizations that aim to foster innovation and collaboration within Alberta's technology ecosystem. Applicants should be leading events focusing on emerging technologies and must fit into the following categories:1. Post-secondary Institutions - Universities, colleges, and technical institutes located in Alberta.2. Not-for-Profit Organizations - These include entities that do not operate for profit and are engaged in promoting innovation.3. Associations/Consortia/Societies - Groups or partnerships formed to achieve common objectives in technology and innovation.4. Public, Private, and Separate Schools - Educational institutions that are eligible to apply, particularly if they offer programs in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).5. For-Profit Organizations - While these organizations can apply, preference is given to non-profit entities. For-profit applicants must demonstrate a clear alignment with the program's objectives and provide services that are beneficial to the innovation ecosystem.
grant_eligibility_criteria|eligible_expenses
This program funds a variety of initiatives designed to build and enhance collaboration in the emerging technologies sector within Alberta. It aims to foster connections and provide learning opportunities that align with Alberta's innovation ecosystem needs.
- Focused networking events bringing together academia, industry, government, and community stakeholders within emerging technology areas.
- Workshops organized by university researchers to advance the development or adoption of specific areas of emerging technology.
- Team-based science-focused experiential learning opportunities for post-secondary or high school participants.
- Hackathons and coding contests to promote skill development and problem-solving.
- Symposia to showcase student capabilities and skillsets to potential employers.
- Intrapreneurial and entrepreneurial training for students and youth.
grant_eligibility_criteria|zone
The grant covers specific expenses directly related to the execution of strategic networking and development projects in emerging technologies.
- Costs for organizing and hosting events, workshops, and meetings that promote collaboration and networking.
- Expenses for experiential learning activities and entrepreneurial training.
- Material and resource costs necessary for conducting activities aligned with the program objectives.
- Travel expenses incurred for the purpose of bringing together project participants, stakeholders, and collaborators.
- Costs related to the rental of venues and facilities needed to execute project activities.
grant_single_labels|criteria
The evaluation and selection of projects for the Strategic Networking and Development Program are based on criteria that ensure alignment with the program’s objectives and intended outcomes, specifically tailored to benefit the Alberta technology ecosystem.
- Need for support: Justification of the funding need and demonstration of efforts to secure additional funding from other sources.
- Alignment with SND program objectives and intended outcomes: The project’s conformity with the program's goals such as fostering collaboration and innovation in emerging technologies.
- Project outcomes and next steps identified: Clear outline of expected project outcomes and future plans post-funding.
- Benefits to Alberta: Potential impacts and benefits to Alberta's technology and innovation community.
- Benefits to Alberta Innovates (AI): Opportunities for AI's participation or visibility in the project, where applicable.
- Appropriateness of the participants: Suitability and expertise of the involved individuals or groups to effectively execute the project.
- Appropriateness of Budget: Realistic and itemized budget aligning with project goals and scope, ensuring value for money.
grant_single_labels|register
Here are the steps to submit an application for the Strategic Networking and Development Program:
- Step 1: Review Program Guide
- Download and read the Strategic Networking and Development Program Guide from the program's web page.
- Understand the objectives, eligibility criteria, and requirements outlined in the guide.
- Step 2: Initial Contact
- Contact the SND program coordinator to discuss your proposed project.
- Alternatively, prepare a summary of your proposed project.
- Step 3: Submit Intake Form
- Access the SmartSimple application portal.
- Submit the project summary using the Post Secondary Investments & Emerging Technologies (PSIET) Intake Form available within the Funding Opportunities tab.
- Step 4: Proposal Review
- Wait for your initial proposal to be reviewed by Alberta Innovates staff.
- Receive feedback or instructions on whether you are invited to submit a full application.
- Step 5: Full Application Submission
- If invited, prepare and complete the full application as instructed by the coordinator and through the SmartSimple portal.
- Ensure all supporting documents and details are uploaded according to the application guidelines.
- Step 6: Application Review and Evaluation
- Once submitted, your application will be reviewed for alignment with program objectives.
- Be available for any follow-up information or clarification requests during the evaluation period.
- Step 7: Final Decision
- Receive notification of the funding decision from Alberta Innovates.
- Sign the Investment Agreement if the application is approved.
grant_single_labels|contact
chao.lipuka@albertainnovates.ca
780-450-5146
Apply to this program
Drive Innovation and Collaboration in Emerging Technologies
This grant provides up to $25,000 in funding for Alberta-based not-for-profits and post-secondary institutions organizing events focused on emerging technologies. It aims to foster innovation, collaboration, and experiential learning opportunities within Alberta’s tech ecosystem.
Detailed Insights Into the Strategic Networking and Development Program
The Strategic Networking and Development Program, managed by Alberta Innovates, is a powerful initiative designed to bolster the innovation landscape across Alberta by supporting notable events focused on emerging technologies. This grant serves as an excellent funding source for those leading efforts to accelerate collaboration and technological advancement among Alberta's tech talents, researchers, and industry stakeholders. By providing up to $25,000 in funding, the program is committed to empowering activities that inspire innovation and contribute to the technological progress and economic vitality of the province.
Eligible entities, primarily including post-secondary institutions and not-for-profit organizations, are equipped to engage in diverse activities such as high-impact networking events, thematic workshops led by university researchers, science-focused educational contests, and hackathons. Drawing participants from academia, industry, and community groups within Alberta, these events are pivotal for nurturing an interconnected ecosystem where ideas can flourish. The inclusion of experiential learning opportunities for students in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) is a critical component, ensuring that Alberta’s younger generation is prepared with essential skills for future technological challenges.
The program emphasizes the importance of Alberta-based collaborations, leveraging the province’s substantial academic and industrial infrastructure. By aligning with the Program’s objectives, applicants are positioned to foster significant partnerships and introduce innovative practices and technologies that are relevant to the evolving demands of the Alberta economy. Alberta Innovates views this initiative as integral to its efforts in driving economic growth, creating sustainable job opportunities, and enhancing the overall competitiveness of Alberta’s leading technology sectors.
Beyond just financial aid, the Strategic Networking and Development Program offers comprehensive support to applicants. Successful applicants gain access to invaluable resources and expert guidance aimed at ensuring the effectiveness and reach of their projects. This holistic support aids in the seamless integration of funded projects into the broader technological ecosystem, maximizing their potential impact.
Moreover, the program's openness to continuous intake ensures that emerging opportunities are efficiently addressed, allowing innovative projects to commence as soon as they're ready. This aspect of the program showcases Alberta Innovates’ commitment to maintaining flexibility and responsiveness in its funding strategies, ensuring that the support provided is timely and effective.
Ultimately, this grant is more than just financial support; it is an investment in Alberta's future, promoting a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship that is vital for sustained economic prosperity. By engaging with the Strategic Networking and Development Program, eligible organizations not only benefit from financial and strategic support but also play a crucial role in shaping a dynamic and resilient tech community positioned to tackle future challenges.
