Digital Services Program
Canada
Support for SMEs to assist with digital adaptation
grant_single_labels|summary
grant_single|eligibleFinancing
- grant_single|projectCostPercent
grant_single|deadlines
- grant_single|openingDateAugust 22, 2023
grant_single|financingType
Expert Advice
grant_single|eligibleIndustries
- grant_single|allIndustries
grant_single|grantors
- Government of Manitoba
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grant_card_status|open
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Get access to expert digital service providers who assist with business technology assessments, digital legal services, or a cybersecurity audit.
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This grant is specifically available to businesses located within a defined region in Canada. Its aim is to support companies operating under certain conditions in Manitoba.
- Businesses owned and operated within the Province of Manitoba, Canada.
grant_single|admissibleProjectsExample
$52,500
Establishing a digital legal service platform for a financial cooperative
$40,000
Implementing digital legal services for a tech startup
$33,750
Building digital capacity and conducting a cybersecurity audit for a cultural NPO
$90,000
Conducting a comprehensive cybersecurity audit for a mid-sized manufacturing company
$37,500
Developing a business technology assessment framework for a healthcare cooperative
$26,250
Conducting a business technology assessment for an agricultural cooperative
grant_single_labels|admissibility
To be eligible for the Digital Services Program, businesses must meet the following criteria.
- Your business is owned and operated in the Province of Manitoba.
- Your business is registered and in good standing with the Manitoba Companies Office and has been operating since April 1, 2021, or earlier.
- You can demonstrate that your business has invested a minimum of $3,500 in building digital capacity since April 1, 2022.
- You have a minimum of 5 full-time equivalent employees for the Business Technology Assessment or the Cybersecurity Audit, OR a minimum of 2 full-time equivalent employees for Digital Legal Services.
- The individual named in the application is authorised to enter into legal agreements on behalf of the company.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply
The Digital Services Program is designed for businesses based in the Province of Manitoba that meet specific criteria. Eligible businesses are those that have not previously received assistance through the program in the areas of Business Technology Assessment, Cybersecurity Audit, or Digital Legal Services. Additionally, the business must be registered and in good standing with the Manitoba Companies Office and have been operating since April 1, 2021, or earlier. It must also demonstrate a minimum investment of $3,500 in building digital capacity since April 1, 2022, and employ a minimum number of full-time equivalent employees, depending on the service sought: 5 employees for Business Technology Assessment or Cybersecurity Audit, or 2 employees for Digital Legal Services. Furthermore, the individual applying must be authorized to enter into legal agreements on behalf of the company.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_cannot_apply
This grant is not available to certain companies due to their previous participation or role as technology vendors. These restrictions ensure that new participants and independent businesses can benefit from the program.
- Companies that have previously received a Business Technology Assessment, Cybersecurity Audit, or Digital Legal Services through this program.
- Businesses acting as technology vendors who are interested in becoming service providers.
grant_eligibility_criteria|eligible_expenses
The Digital Services Program is designed to enhance the operational and technological capabilities of businesses through specialized evaluations. It offers support in diverse areas to help companies maximize their technology investments and secure their digital presence.
- Business Technology Assessment to develop a comprehensive IT roadmap aligned with business goals.
- Digital Legal Services aimed at securing rights related to website content and data collection.
- Cybersecurity Audit to create a custom plan for protecting the business from online threats.
grant_eligibility_criteria|zone
The grant covers the full cost of services provided by designated service providers within the program.
- Business Technology Assessment services.
- Digital Legal Services.
- Cybersecurity Audit services.
grant_single_labels|criteria
- Business is owned and operated in the Province of Manitoba. - Business is registered and in good standing with the Manitoba Companies Office and has been operating since April 1, 2021 or earlier. - Business has invested a minimum of $3,500 in building digital capacity since April 1, 2022. - Minimum of 5 full-time equivalent employees for Business Technology Assessment or Cybersecurity Audit, OR minimum of 2 full-time equivalent employees for Digital Legal Services. - The individual named in the application is authorized to enter into legal agreements on behalf of the company.
grant_single_labels|register
- Step 1: Preliminary Registration
- Create an account on the Digital Manitoba Initiative portal.
- Step 2: Complete Application Form
- Fill out the Digital Services Program application form provided on the portal.
- Step 3: Submit Application
- Review the completed application form for accuracy and completeness.
- Submit the application through the Digital Manitoba Initiative portal.
- Step 4: Screening Interview
- Participate in a 15-minute screening interview with a Digital Manitoba Initiative representative.
- Step 5: Approval Notification
- Receive an approval email with instructions for signing a statement of work and booking the onboarding meeting.
- Step 6: Onboarding Meeting
- Attend a 30-minute meeting with the Digital Manitoba Initiative representative and the assigned Digital Service Provider.
- Step 7: Service Delivery
- Collaborate with the Digital Service Provider to receive services as outlined in the statement of work.
- Step 8: Exit Survey and Interview
- Complete an exit survey and a 15-minute exit interview with a DMI representative.
grant_single_labels|otherInfo
Here are additional relevant details for this program:
- The program is fully funded by the Government of Manitoba, ensuring no financial burdens on the participating businesses for the services provided.
- The Digital Service Providers are neutral, third-party companies not affiliated with technology vendors, ensuring unbiased guidance.
- The program includes a final survey and interview process to gather feedback and ensure the effectiveness of the services provided.
- All services are aligned with modern digital needs, helping businesses stay competitive in a rapidly evolving technology landscape.
Apply to this program
Transform Your Business with Fully Funded Digital Services
The Digital Services Program offers a unique opportunity for eligible businesses in Manitoba to modernize their operations with the help of expert service providers, all at no cost. This initiative, fully funded by the Digital Manitoba Initiative, connects businesses with top-tier professionals to tailor services that align with their technological needs.
Unlocking Growth Through Strategic Digital Upgrades
In today's fast-paced digital landscape, businesses must continuously evolve to stay competitive. The Digital Services Program is designed precisely with this objective in mind, providing Manitoba-based businesses the chance to enhance their digital strategies without incurring financial burdens. This program includes three tailored service streams, each focusing on different critical aspects of digital transformation: Business Technology Assessment, Digital Legal Services, and Cybersecurity Audit. Each stream seeks to address specific operational needs, ensuring businesses can effectively meet the demands of a modern marketplace.
The Business Technology Assessment service is perfect for organizations looking to optimize their IT infrastructure. Through this service, businesses receive a comprehensive evaluation of their current technology setup along with a customized roadmap to align technology initiatives with their business goals. This proactive approach not only equips businesses with the latest technological tools but also enhances their overall operational efficiency.
For businesses concerned with the legal aspects of digital operations, the Digital Legal Services stream offers robust support and guidance. This includes safeguarding intellectual property, securing rights to digital content, and ensuring all legal requirements related to data collection and privacy are met. Navigating the legal landscape is vital for protecting a business's digital assets, and this service ensures compliance with the latest regulations and standards.
The third segment, Cybersecurity Audit, is an imperative component for businesses looking to safeguard their operations against cyber threats. With cybercrime on the rise, having a solid cybersecurity strategy is non-negotiable. Businesses can receive tailored plans that address vulnerabilities, enhance data protection, and fortify their security posture. This service not only protects valuable business information but also instills trust in clients and partners who rely on secure transactions and data management.
From application to delivery, the program's framework is designed to be smooth and efficient. Eligible businesses must undergo an initial application process, which checks their qualifications against program criteria. Following this, a quick screening interview is conducted to finalize eligibility. Approved participants then engage in an onboarding meeting to establish service delivery expectations and timelines. Subsequent execution by the dedicated service provider ensures that each business receives a personalized and effective digital transformation strategy.
This program doesn't just end with service delivery. An exit survey and interview provide participants the chance to give feedback and discuss the value received, ensuring the program continually evolves and improves. Altogether, the Digital Services Program empowers businesses to leverage sophisticated digital tools and strategies, ultimately enhancing productivity and competitive edge within their respective industries.
With the Government of Manitoba's backing, this initiative not only aims to modernize local businesses but also contributes to the broader economic development of the region. By prioritizing digital readiness, the program strengthens businesses against future challenges and streamlines their path towards sustainable growth and innovation.
