FedDev — Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative – Adoption Pillar 2 – Businesses
ON, Canada
Unlock your company's potential with cutting-edge AI advancements
grant_single_labels|summary
grant_single|eligibleFinancing
- grant_single|maxCount
- grant_single|projectCostPercent
grant_single|deadlines
- grant_single|openingDateOctober 22, 2024
- grant_single|closingDateDecember 20, 2024
grant_single|financingType
Grant and Funding
grant_single|eligibleIndustries
- Manufacturing
- Transportation and warehousing
- Finance and insurance
- Health care and social assistance
grant_single|grantors
- Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FEDDEV)
grant_single|status
grant_card_status|open
grant_card_status|closingSoon
grant_single_labels|preview
The Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative (RAII) offers up to a maximum of $5 million in funding to help businesses and organizations in southern Ontario adopt or integrate AI solutions. The program aims to bring new AI technologies to market and enhance competitiveness by improving operational efficiency and creating productivity gains. Eligible activities include acquiring and integrating AI solutions, upgrading digital infrastructure, and strengthening cybersecurity measures, among others.
grant_single_labels|projects
The RAII Adoption pillar funds projects that focus on the adoption or integration of AI or AI-driven solutions to enhance operational efficiency and competitiveness. Eligible activities under this grant include acquiring and integrating AI solutions, improving governance practices, upgrading equipment, accessing expertise, and building capacity.
- Acquiring and integrating AI solutions.
- Improving governance and adopting best management practices.
- Upgrading equipment and improving digital infrastructure.
- Re-engineering processes.
- Accessing AI expertise.
- Building capacity and training (not duplicative of other government support programs).
- Strengthening cybersecurity measures.
- Establishing guidelines/frameworks/committees for the responsible use of AI.
grant_single|admissibleProjectsExample
$35,000
Vancouver
Create a new digital platform for local artisans in Vancouver, BC to sell uniquely crafted goods online.
$40,000
Toronto
Develop an innovative waste management system for restaurants in Toronto, ON to reduce food waste.
$30,000
Halifax
Launch a community farming initiative in Halifax, NS to promote sustainable urban agriculture and food security.
$70,000
Calgary
Establish a mobile health clinic in Calgary, AB to improve healthcare access for underprivileged communities.
$60,000
Montreal
Implement a renewable energy installation on community housing projects in Montreal, QC.
grant_single_labels|admissibility
To be eligible for this grant, your business must meet the following criteria:
- Be incorporated and registered to do business in Canada or Ontario.
- Have at least 5 full-time equivalent employees (FTEs) and no more than 500 FTEs.
- Have at least 3 years of business operations, as demonstrated by your financial statements.
- Demonstrate that you will secure rights to intellectual property (IP) required for the project.
- Where applicable, must not infringe on any IP rights, and demonstrate that you will own any IP you will create or develop in carrying out the project.
- Demonstrate a commitment to the responsible development and use of AI.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply
Yes, there are specific eligibility criteria for companies applying for the Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative (RAII) Adoption pillar. Eligible businesses must demonstrate the ability to adopt AI technologies, boost operational efficiency, and meet various requirements related to size, experience, and legal status.
- Be incorporated and registered to do business in Canada or Ontario.
- Have at least 5 full-time equivalent employees (FTEs) and no more than 500 FTEs.
- Have at least 3 years of business operations, as demonstrated by financial statements.
- Demonstrate the ability to secure rights to necessary intellectual property for the project.
- Commit to the responsible development and use of AI, including compliance with relevant legislative requirements and industry standards.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_cannot_apply
There are no specific types of companies mentioned in the grant context that are not eligible for the grant.
grant_eligibility_criteria|eligible_expenses
Eligible expenses for the grant must be reasonable, verifiable, incremental, and directly support project activities, excluding ongoing production or operational costs.
- Machinery and equipment purchase and installation related to project completion.
- Renovation, site, or leasehold improvements for project-specific equipment or infrastructure.
- Incremental salaries and benefits for employees working on the project.
- Fees for professional, legal, and technical personnel related to the project.
- Costs for marketing, outreach, commercial demonstration, and translation related to the project.
- Training-related expenses relevant to the project.
- Direct material costs used for project completion, such as materials for prototypes and testing.
grant_eligibility_criteria|zone
This grant is open for applications from businesses and organizations located in southern Ontario, Canada. There are no specific geographic restrictions within this region mentioned in relation to eligibility.
- Southern Ontario, Canada
grant_single_labels|criteria
The evaluation and selection of projects for the Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative (RAII) Adoption pillar focus on the degree to which projects target AI adoption or integration, alignment with pillar priorities, quality of the project plan and budget, and expected measurable outcomes. Additionally, the assessment considers the project's potential to address critical business challenges, responsible AI practices, and overall benefit to the Canadian economy.
- Degree to which the project focuses on the adoption or integration of transformative AI.
- Degree to which the project supports new or expanded initiatives for your company or organization (e.g., incrementality of the project).
- Quality of the project plan and budget, including contributions of project partners, capacity to undertake project (managerial, technical, and operational), and if you are a business, financial capacity and ability to repay.
- Alignment with pillar priorities.
- Degree to which the project addresses a critical business or industry challenge, the scope of benefits, and breadth and sophistication of activities to properly integrate and adapt to the AI solution.
- Expected results of the project.
- Degree of risk and mitigation measures, in particular with respect to responsible AI.
- Applicants will also be assessed for their compliance with applicable legislation and regulatory requirements.
grant_single_labels|register
- Step 1: Attend a Virtual Information Session - Attend a virtual session to learn more about the funding opportunity and application process.
- Step 2: Check Eligibility - Ensure your business meets the eligibility requirements, such as being incorporated in Canada or Ontario, having between 5 and 500 full-time employees, and demonstrating a commitment to responsible AI development.
- Step 3: Review Program Details - Click "Next" to review detailed information about the program and its requirements.
- Step 4: Prepare Application Documents - Complete the application, supplementary form, and other mandatory attachments. This may include financial statements, project plans, and evidence of secured intellectual property rights.
- Step 5: Submit Application - Submit your complete application package by December 20, 2024, at 4:59 pm Eastern Standard Time. Indigenous applicants may contact FedDev Ontario directly to submit their application.
- Step 6: Confirmation of Matching Funding - If your project is approved, confirm all sources of matching funding with documentation within 30 days.
grant_single_labels|otherInfo
Additional guidance for applicants is provided to enhance the clarity and effectiveness of their application process under the RAII. Important notes and definitions are included to ensure compliance and understanding of eligibility and project requirements.
- Funding assistance may have tax implications; businesses are advised to consult a qualified tax professional.
- The application guide includes important notes on calculating full-time equivalent employees and provides detailed definitions of key project indicators.
- A voluntary self-declaration for diversity, equity, and inclusion is included, touching on the Government of Canada's commitment to these values.
- Clarifications on eligible project costs stipulated to ensure expenses directly align with project activities and outcomes.
grant_single_labels|contact
info@feddevontario.gc.ca
1-866-593-5505
Apply to this program
Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative (RAII) Grant Overview
The Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative (RAII) in southern Ontario is a $200 million fund designed to accelerate the adoption and market integration of AI technologies in various sectors. This program, supported by FedDev Ontario, is open for applications from October 22, 2024, to December 20, 2024, and aims to improve operational efficiency, productivity, and competitiveness through transformative AI projects.
Understanding the Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative (RAII) Grant
The Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative (RAII) represents a significant opportunity for businesses and organizations in southern Ontario, with the overarching goal of bolstering the integration and application of artificial intelligence across multiple industries. This initiative, backed by Canada's regional development agencies, comes at a crucial time when AI technologies are rapidly transforming the global business landscape. Here's a detailed exploration of the grant, including its objectives, eligible sectors, application requirements, and strategic guidelines for potential applicants.
The Vision and Objectives
The primary objective of the RAII is to expedite the adoption of AI technologies by providing necessary funding and support to businesses striving to innovate and remain competitive on a global scale. The initiative specifically focuses on transformative projects that aim to not only integrate AI but to fundamentally change how operations are conducted, thereby providing a competitive edge through enhanced efficiency and productivity.
Targeted Sectors and Applications
The RAII is particularly interested in projects that apply AI to distinct sectors, including: - **Healthcare and Life Sciences**: Projects could involve AI applications in imaging, diagnostics, drug design, and precision medicine, providing groundbreaking ways to enhance patient care and streamline medical processes. - **Enterprise Solutions**: AI adoption in financial and business services, pricing and risk analysis, and service optimization is encouraged to foster an intelligent business environment that can predict trends and make informed decisions based on analytics. - **Manufacturing**: Embracing AI in the manufacturing sector, projects could focus on smart manufacturing, machine learning integration, and robotics, aiming to improve productivity and reduce operational inefficiencies. - **Mobility**: Projects may explore AI in logistics, automated drone delivery, automated warehouses, and route optimization, streamlining transport and reducing environmental impact. These focus areas exemplify the initiative’s commitment to facilitating AI-driven transformations across various industries, setting a foundation for sustainable and competitive advancement.
Eligibility Criteria
Businesses seeking to benefit from the RAII must meet specific eligibility criteria. This includes: 1. **Incorporation**: Companies must be incorporated and registered to operate either in Canada or specifically in Ontario. 2. **Workforce Size**: Eligible businesses should employ between 5 and 500 full-time equivalent employees. 3. **Operational History**: A minimum of three years of business operations is required, as evidenced by financial statements. 4. **Intellectual Property**: Companies must secure the rights to any intellectual property necessary for their project and should ensure no infringement of existing IP rights. 5. **Responsible AI Development**: Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to responsible AI development, adhering to legislative requirements, and ethical standards.
Project Expectations and Priorities
The RAII seeks projects that not only implement AI solutions but also demonstrate strategic foresight and a profound understanding of AI's potential impact. Priority may be given to projects that: - **Demonstrate Transformative Adoption**: Projects focusing on profound AI integration and transformative adoption, illustrating clear advancements in efficiency or new capabilities. - **Capacity Building and Process Reengineering**: Projects should embrace process redesigns and capacity development, facilitating the nurturing of skilled workforces adept in AI technologies. - **Stakeholder Engagement**: Initiatives that involve partnerships and collaborations, thereby strengthening the AI ecosystem by involving diverse stakeholders. - **Sustainability and Equity**: Emphasis on projects that showcase a commitment to sustainability, fair practice, and equitable access, ensuring AI does not reinforce or create biases.
Application Process and Guidance
The application process for the RAII is structured to ensure clarity, thoroughness, and a focus on the alignment of projects with the initiative’s goals. Applicants are encouraged to: - **Attend Information Sessions**: Participatory virtual sessions will provide detailed insights into the application process, expectations, and strategic tips for completing applications. - **Submission Components**: Complete the main application form, supplemental forms, and attach mandatory documents by the deadline of December 20, 2024. - **Showcase Impact and Innovation**: Clearly illustrate how the project aligns with RAII objectives and delivers measurable benefits to the business or organization and the broader community. - **Outline Financial and Project Management Structures**: Detailed budgets and organizational plans demonstrate the feasibility and sustainability of the proposed initiatives.
Financial Support and Conditions
Small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) can request funding up to $5 million, which is typically structured as a fully repayable, interest-free contribution. For not-for-profit organizations, funding is usually non-repayable. Key conditions include: - **Financial Contribution Split**: FedDev Ontario contributes up to 50% of eligible project costs, with the applicant responsible for the remaining 50%. In-kind contributions are not considered eligible funding. - **Repayment Terms**: For businesses, repayment generally starts one year after project completion. - **Government Assistance Cap**: Total government assistance cannot exceed 50% of capital costs and 75% of non-capital costs, with Indigenous-led projects eligible for up to 100% coverage.
Crafting a Successful Proposal
A successful application will capture the essence of the RAII’s goals and convincingly map out a plan that supports innovation and responsible AI use. Key elements include: - **Clear alignment with sector priorities**: Demonstrate how your project integrates innovative AI solutions tailored to one of the four focus sectors. - **Comprehensive Risk Management**: Provide strategies that address potential risks, including those related to AI ethics, data privacy, security, and regulation compliance. - **Economic and Social Benefits**: Highlight the expected outcomes, including economic, social, or environmental impacts, providing a balanced overview of benefits against risks and costs. - **Outcome-Based Metrics**: Set clear benchmarks for success, linked to increased revenue, efficiency gains, market expansion, or other relevant KPIs.
Conclusion
The Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative (RAII) is an ambitious endeavor to drive the adoption of transformative AI technologies in southern Ontario. By empowering businesses and organizations with the financial backing to integrate cutting-edge AI solutions, the initiative aims to enhance competitiveness and foster sustainable economic growth. For prospective applicants, a meticulous approach to proposal preparation, alignment with RAII priorities, and a clear articulation of project impacts are paramount to securing this valuable funding opportunity.