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Breakthrough Energy Solutions Canada
Accelerating Canadian clean energy technology innovation and commercialization
Last Update: March 4, 2026
Funding available
Varies by project
Timeline
- Open Date : May 27, 2019
- Closing date : March 31, 2023
Location
Canada
Overview
Breakthrough Energy Solutions Canada (BESC) provided over $21 million in funding to support the advancement of Canadian-made clean energy technologies that significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The program targeted high-potential projects in manufacturing, electricity, transportation, and buildings sectors, supporting activities such as technology development, demonstration, and commercialization.
/100
Opportunity Score
Moderate potential, but conditions must align.
At a glance
Funding available
Financing goals
- Increase performance through digital transformation
- Develop strategic partnerships
- Develop a new product or service
Eligible Funding
- Varies by project
Timeline
- Open Date : May 27, 2019
- Closing date : March 31, 2023
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- Utilities
- Construction
- Manufacturing
- Transportation and warehousing
Location
- Canada
Legal structures
- For-profit business
Annual revenue
- All revenue ranges
Organisation size
- All organization sizes
Audience
- Canadians
- Startups
Next Steps
1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility
Activities funded
- Advancement of clean energy technologies targeting significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions in the manufacturing, electricity, transportation, and buildings sectors.
- Development and commercialization of innovative solutions such as low-cost clean hydrogen production, energy-efficient membrane cooling systems, and ultra-fast charging technology for electric vehicles.
- Projects enabling the circular economy through CO2 utilization and other resource-efficient manufacturing processes.
- Implementation of long-duration energy storage systems and platforms promoting sustainable urban development.
- Collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and mentorship activities to accelerate the growth and readiness of Canadian clean energy ventures.
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
- Canadian companies and innovators developing clean energy technologies
- Entrepreneurs and start-ups focused on reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions
- Businesses operating in the manufacturing sector
- Companies in the electricity sector
- Organizations in the transportation and buildings sectors
Eligible geographic areas
- Canada
Additional information
- The BESC initiative fostered mentorship and peer-to-peer learning among selected companies through accelerator events and expert-led sessions.
- Cohort companies benefited from opportunities to network with private investors, business experts, and other innovation partners at dedicated events.
- The program promoted knowledge sharing and professional development, with a focus on advanced training for highly qualified personnel.
- Participating companies collectively filed numerous patents and licenses, advancing innovation commercialization globally.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Breakthrough Energy Solutions Canada Program
Here are answers to the most common questions about the Breakthrough Energy Solutions Canada. This section explains what the program is, how much funding is available, eligibility requirements, application deadlines, and other important details to help you determine if this grant is right for your business.
What is the Breakthrough Energy Solutions Canada?
Breakthrough Energy Solutions Canada (BESC) provided over $21 million in funding to support the advancement of Canadian-made clean energy technologies that significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The program targeted high-potential projects in manufacturing, electricity, transportation, and buildings sectors, supporting activities such as technology development, demonstration, and commercialization.
What is the deadline to apply?
The application deadline for this grant program was March 31, 2023.
Who is eligible for the Breakthrough Energy Solutions Canada program?
To be eligible for the Breakthrough Energy Solutions Canada program, you must:
Canadian entrepreneurs or start-ups
Projects focused on clean energy technologies
Potential to significantly reduce global greenhouse gas emissions
What expenses are eligible under Breakthrough Energy Solutions Canada?
Advancement of clean energy technologies targeting significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions in the manufacturing, electricity, transportation, and buildings sectors.
Development and commercialization of innovative solutions such as low-cost clean hydrogen production, energy-efficient membrane cooling systems, and ultra-fast charging technology for electric vehicles.
Projects enabling the circular economy through CO2 utilization and other resource-efficient manufacturing processes.
Implementation of long-duration energy storage systems and platforms promoting sustainable urban development.
Collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and mentorship activities to accelerate the growth and readiness of Canadian clean energy ventures.
Who can I contact for more information about the Breakthrough Energy Solutions Canada?
You can contact Natural Resources Canada (NRCan).
Where is the Breakthrough Energy Solutions Canada available?
The Breakthrough Energy Solutions Canada program is available across Canada.
Is the Breakthrough Energy Solutions Canada a grant, loan, or tax credit?
Breakthrough Energy Solutions Canada is a Partnering and Collaboration