Closed
Campus Alberta Small Business Engagement (CASBE) Program
Funding for Alberta academic-industry technology collaboration
Last Update: April 9, 2026
Funding available
$ 150,000
Timeline
- Closing date : November 6, 2025
Location
Alberta, Canada
Overview
This program supports Alberta post-secondary institutions working with Alberta SMEs on emerging technology projects. It provides up to $150,000 per year for a maximum of two years.
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Opportunity Score
Moderate potential, but conditions must align.
At a glance
Funding available
Financing goals
- Increase performance through digital transformation
- Develop strategic partnerships
- Attract or retain talent
Eligible Funding
- Maximum amount : 150,000 $
Timeline
- Closing date : November 6, 2025
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- Manufacturing
- Information and cultural industries
- Professional, scientific and technical services
- Educational services
Location
- Alberta
Legal structures
- For-profit business
Annual revenue
- $ 50,000,000 maximum revenue
Organisation size
- 2-500 employees
Audience
- All groups
Next Steps
1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility
Activities funded
- Collaborative emerging technology research projects with Alberta SMEs
- Technology adoption and commercialization-oriented R&D
- Projects linked to Alberta’s research and commercialization priorities
Documents Needed
- PSIET Intake Form submitted through SmartSimple
- Draft NSERC application form
- Project Gantt chart
- CASBE budget file and budget explanation
- Letter of support from the Alberta SME
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
- Alberta colleges and polytechnics
- Alberta universities
- Researchers from Alberta post-secondary institutions
- Alberta small and medium-sized enterprises as industry partners
Who is not eligible
- Organizations without a physical presence in Alberta
- Applicants not in good financial standing with Alberta Innovates
- Industry partners that are not for-profit SMEs
- Businesses without the required Alberta registration or legal entity status
Eligible expenses
- Labour costs directly tied to the project
- Materials and supplies used for the project
- Critical equipment, software, and databases
- Subcontractor fees and basic professional services directly related to the project
- Travel, accommodation, meals, and other direct operating costs
Ineligible Costs and Activities
- Costs incurred before the Project Start Date or before the Investment Agreement is signed
- Transactions between related persons
- Interest, bad debts, fines, and penalties
- Advertising, training, and routine maintenance costs
- Land and building costs not directly related to the project
Eligible geographic areas
- Alberta
Processing and Agreement
- Applications are first reviewed by Alberta Innovates for fit with program objectives.
- Some applicants then proceed to NSERC review and approval.
- Approved applicants receive a separate agreement with Alberta Innovates.
- Funding is released on a milestone basis after progress is demonstrated.
- Progress and final reporting are required, with outcomes monitored after project completion.
Additional information
- Applications are accepted on a continuous intake basis, but the 2025 intake is closed.
- Applicants are advised to contact the CASBE program manager before submitting.
- Funding decisions are made at Alberta Innovates’ sole discretion.
- Separate agreements are signed with Alberta Innovates and NSERC if approved.
Contacts
Frequently Asked Questions about the Campus Alberta Small Business Engagement (CASBE) Program Program
Here are answers to the most common questions about the Campus Alberta Small Business Engagement (CASBE) Program. 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 Campus Alberta Small Business Engagement (CASBE) Program?
This program supports Alberta post-secondary institutions working with Alberta SMEs on emerging technology projects. It provides up to $150,000 per year for a maximum of two years.
How much funding can be received?
Campus Alberta Small Business Engagement (CASBE) Program Funds up to $150,000 of admissible expenses.
Who is eligible for the Campus Alberta Small Business Engagement (CASBE) Program program?
To be eligible for the Campus Alberta Small Business Engagement (CASBE) Program program, you must:
Alberta post-secondary institution applicant
Alberta SME industry partner required
Project aligned with CASBE and ATIS
What expenses are eligible under Campus Alberta Small Business Engagement (CASBE) Program?
Collaborative emerging technology research projects with Alberta SMEs
Technology adoption and commercialization-oriented R&D
Projects linked to Alberta’s research and commercialization priorities
Who can I contact for more information about the Campus Alberta Small Business Engagement (CASBE) Program?
You can contact Alberta Innovates by email at susie.li@albertainnovates.ca or by phone at 780-450-5286.
Where is the Campus Alberta Small Business Engagement (CASBE) Program available?
The Campus Alberta Small Business Engagement (CASBE) Program program is available the province of Alberta.
Is the Campus Alberta Small Business Engagement (CASBE) Program a grant, loan, or tax credit?
Campus Alberta Small Business Engagement (CASBE) Program is a Researchers And Facilities