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Source verified July 11, 2026
CENGN — Centre of Excellence in Next Generation Networks
Validate software technologies in living labs
Latest source updateLast Update: May 11, 2026Latest change: CENGN updated the project intake page by removing the revenue requirement, adding advanced manufacturing to the project areas, and changing the proposal submission links and guidance.View change
Latest source update
Last Update: May 11, 2026
Latest change: CENGN updated the project intake page by removing the revenue requirement, adding advanced manufacturing to the project areas, and changing the proposal submission links and guidance.
CENGN project page and intake details updated
CENGN updated the What is a CENGN Project page with meaningful changes to eligibility, scope, and the application path. The revenue requirement was removed, advanced manufacturing was added to the listed project areas, and the main proposal submission link and call to action were changed or removed from the page. The page also now presents the project details with a bilingual notice and refreshed navigation to the Living Lab and project pages. These changes may affect who can apply, what project types are highlighted, and how applicants move from the project overview to the portal.
Funding available
$ 500,000
Deadline
Open continuously
Location
Canada
Overview
CENGN Project supports Canadian technology startups and scaleups that use secure living lab environments and testbed sites to validate software technologies. Projects can include smart agriculture, smart mobility, smart buildings, robotics, 5G-enabled solutions, and AI-focused UI/UX design, modelling, and data preparation services.
/100
Opportunity Score
Moderate potential, but conditions must align.
At a glance
Funding available
Financing goals
- Increase performance through digital transformation
- Develop a new product or service
- Access new markets
Eligible Funding
- Maximum amount : 500,000 $
- Up to 40% of project cost
Funds Providers
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- All industries
Location
- Canada
Legal structures
- For-profit business
Annual revenue
- $ 50,000,000 maximum revenue
Organisation size
- 499 employees maximum
Audience
- Startups
Next Steps
1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility
Activities funded
- Testing and validating software technologies in secure, real-world living lab environments and testbed sites.
- Projects in smart agriculture, smart mobility, smart buildings, robotics, and 5G-enabled solutions.
- AI-focused UI/UX design, modelling, and data preparation services.
Documents Needed
- Organization information form
- Project application form
- Initial budget using the template
Official resources
Program guide
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
- Canadian technology startups.
- Canadian scaleups.
Eligible expenses
CENGN projects support the commercialization and technological innovation in various Canadian industries while enhancing connectivity, particularly in rural areas. The eligible activities are categorized under different streams, each focusing on specific industry needs and areas of impact.
- Residential Broadband Program - Expanding network connectivity to improve internet access in rural communities.
- Smart Mining Program - Developing technologies that enhance the efficiency and sustainability of mining operations.
- Smart Agriculture Program - Innovating agricultural technologies to boost productivity and sustainability.
- Commercialization Services - Supporting technology companies in taking their solutions to market and accelerating commercial growth.
Ineligible Costs and Activities
- Activities that do not fit the lab environment or project scope.
- Projects that are not selected for the call for proposals.
Eligible geographic areas
- Canada
- British Columbia
- Ontario
- Quebec
Selection criteria
- Technical feasibility.
- Team capability.
- Market impact.
- Alignment with national innovation goals.
How to apply
- Submit your project proposal through the CENGN portal application.
Processing and Agreement
- Project proposals undergo a multi-phase evaluation process.
- The review confirms whether the project can be completed using CENGN’s Living Labs, Testbed, or other services.
Additional information
Here are additional relevant details for engaging with CENGN projects:
- Projects are notably aligned with specific sectors including residential broadband, smart mining, and smart agriculture.
- CENGN projects facilitate network connectivity specifically aimed at improving technology innovation in Canadian industries.
- Case studies are available for reference which demonstrate successful collaboration and commercial growth of previous project partners.
- CENGN offers commercialization services that are integral to projects.
- The program offers opportunities for hands-on experience and learning, as seen in examples like cybersecurity training with Cyber Range.
- Potential applicants can access business engineering support via services@cengn.ca for specific inquiries related to commercialization services.
- Participants can join the CENGN community through subscriptions to newsletters for updates on latest tech innovations and project developments.
Contacts
Frequently Asked Questions about the CENGN — Centre of Excellence in Next Generation Networks Program
What is the CENGN — Centre of Excellence in Next Generation Networks?
CENGN Project supports Canadian technology startups and scaleups that use secure living lab environments and testbed sites to validate software technologies. Projects can include smart agriculture, smart mobility, smart buildings, robotics, 5G-enabled solutions, and AI-focused UI/UX design, modelling, and data preparation services.
How much funding can be received?
CENGN — Centre of Excellence in Next Generation Networks Funds up to 40% of admissible expenses, capped at $500,000 per project.
Who is eligible for the CENGN — Centre of Excellence in Next Generation Networks program?
To be eligible for the CENGN — Centre of Excellence in Next Generation Networks program, you must:
Canadian company based in Canada
Fewer than 500 employees and less than $50M in revenue
Technology level of TRL 4 or above
What expenses are eligible under CENGN — Centre of Excellence in Next Generation Networks?
Testing and validating software technologies in secure, real-world living lab environments and testbed sites.
Projects in smart agriculture, smart mobility, smart buildings, robotics, and 5G-enabled solutions.
AI-focused UI/UX design, modelling, and data preparation services.
Who can I contact for more information about the CENGN — Centre of Excellence in Next Generation Networks?
You can contact Centre of Excellence in Next Generation Networks (CENGN) by email at bd@cengn.ca.
Where is the CENGN — Centre of Excellence in Next Generation Networks available?
The CENGN — Centre of Excellence in Next Generation Networks program is available across Canada.
Is the CENGN — Centre of Excellence in Next Generation Networks a grant, loan, or tax credit?
CENGN — Centre of Excellence in Next Generation Networks is a Grant and Funding