Open
CENGN — Centre of Excellence in Next Generation Networks
Validate and commercialize innovative tech solutions
Last Update: March 3, 2026
Funding available
Varies by project
Timeline
- Open continuously
Location
Canada
Overview
Canadian startups and scaleups can access real-world testing environments, technical expertise, and funding support through CENGN’s Living Lab Initiative. The program helps validate and commercialize innovative digital solutions in sectors such as smart agriculture, smart mobility, smart buildings, advanced manufacturing, robotics, and networking technologies.
/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
- Varies by project
Timeline
- Open continuously
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
- Mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction
- Information and cultural industries
- Professional, scientific and technical services
- Educational services
Location
- Canada
Legal structures
- For-profit business
Annual revenue
- All revenue ranges
Organisation size
- All organization sizes
Audience
- Rural or Northern Residents
- Canadians
- Startups
Next Steps
1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility
Activities funded
- Testing and validating software and digital technologies in real-world living lab environments.
- Commercialization projects using CENGN’s living labs and testbeds.
- Projects in smart agriculture, smart mobility, smart buildings, advanced manufacturing, robotics, and 5G-enabled solutions.
- Validation services for software-related solutions.
Documents Needed
- Organization information form
- Project application form
- Initial budget using the template
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
Processing and Agreement
- Applications are reviewed through a multi-phase evaluation process.
- Submissions are assessed to confirm they can be completed using CENGN’s Living Labs, Testbed, or other services.
- Applicants are contacted with next steps if the project is a strong fit and space is available.
- Applicants are notified if the submission cannot move forward.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions about the CENGN — Centre of Excellence in Next Generation Networks Program
Here are answers to the most common questions about the CENGN — Centre of Excellence in Next Generation Networks. 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 CENGN — Centre of Excellence in Next Generation Networks?
Canadian startups and scaleups can access real-world testing environments, technical expertise, and funding support through CENGN’s Living Lab Initiative. The program helps validate and commercialize innovative digital solutions in sectors such as smart agriculture, smart mobility, smart buildings, advanced manufacturing, robotics, and networking technologies.
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
Fewer than 500 employees
TRL 4 or above
What expenses are eligible under CENGN — Centre of Excellence in Next Generation Networks?
Testing and validating software and digital technologies in real-world living lab environments.
Commercialization projects using CENGN’s living labs and testbeds.
Projects in smart agriculture, smart mobility, smart buildings, advanced manufacturing, robotics, and 5G-enabled solutions.
Validation services for software-related solutions.
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).
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 Researchers And Facilities
Who are the financial supporters of the CENGN — Centre of Excellence in Next Generation Networks?
CENGN — Centre of Excellence in Next Generation Networks is funded by Centre of Excellence in Next Generation Networks (CENGN)