Industrial Research Assistance Program (IRAP) — Advisory Services
Canada
Expert business and technical advice
grant_single_labels|summary
grant_single|eligibleFinancing
- grant_single|noCondition
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- grant_single|timelineUnspecified
grant_single|financingType
Expert Advice
Other Support
grant_single|eligibleIndustries
- Professional, scientific and technical services
grant_single|grantors
- National Research Council Canada (NRC)
- Government of Canada
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grant_card_status|open
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Get expert advice from concept to commercialization in areas like patent searches, strategic intelligence and technology.
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The Industrial Research Assistance Program (IRAP) Advisory Services grant supports activities that contribute to innovation and commercialization across various industries in Canada. It focuses on providing technical and business advisory services to help small and medium-sized enterprises grow and thrive.
- Provision of technical and business advice by Industrial Technology Advisors (ITAs).
- Facilitation of literature and patent searches to support research and innovation.
- Referral services to other beneficial programs and services.
- Access to specialized expertise and strategic intelligence.
- Development of linkages to appropriate business and technology resources.
- Enhancement of business management skills and knowledge-transfer initiatives.
- Networking and collaboration opportunities with technology partners.
grant_single|admissibleProjectsExample
$ 100,000
Launching a community recycling program to reduce waste and promote sustainability
$ 150,000
Developing a mobile app for mental health support among college students
$ 400,000
Enhancing cybersecurity measures for a financial cooperative's data systems
$ 300,000
Developing an AI-based screening tool for early detection of skin cancer
$ 250,000
Designing an energy-efficient home heating system using renewable resources
$ 250,000
Establishing a local food distribution network to support small farmers
grant_single_labels|admissibility
Eligibility criteria:
- Canadian small and medium-sized business
- Engaged in innovation projects
- Seeking technical and business advice
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply
The National Research Council of Canada Industrial Research Assistance Program (NRC IRAP) is designed to assist small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Canada that are pursuing innovative projects. These projects should aim at research and development activities leading to technology advancement and commercialization.
Eligible applicants for the NRC IRAP program include Canadian small and medium-sized enterprises seeking support for R&D and innovation projects.
- Canadian SMEs that are incorporated and profit-oriented.
- Projects with a focus on research, development, and commercialization of innovative products or services.
- Enterprises with the potential for significant economic impact through innovation.
- Applicants demonstrating a need for technical and business advisory services.
- Companies that benefit from linkages to technology partners and strategic intelligence.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_cannot_apply
There are certain types of companies that may not be eligible for this grant. These typically include:
- Companies not incorporated in Canada.
- Companies not engaged in research, development, or innovation activities.
- Companies operating outside the scope of the grant's focus areas.
grant_eligibility_criteria|eligible_expenses
This grant supports innovation projects that leverage industrial technology advisors and extensive networks for business growth and problem-solving. Eligible activities include technical advice, R&D support, and access to business networks.
- Receiving technical and business advice from experienced ITAs.
- Engaging in literature and patent searches for enhanced project development.
- Utilizing referrals to other supportive programs and services.
- Linking with experts in various fields for specialized insights.
- Accessing strategic intelligence to guide commercialization processes.
- Connecting with universities, colleges, and industry groups for collaborative opportunities.
- Developing business and management skills relevant to SME growth.
- Participating in knowledge-transfer and networking events.
grant_eligibility_criteria|zone
This grant is accessible to businesses across Canada, facilitated by a network of Industrial Technology Advisors who operate nationwide and collaborate with regional partners.
- Businesses located in all provinces and territories across Canada.
grant_single_labels|criteria
There are evaluation and selection criteria for this grant. The evaluation and selection criteria include:
- Demonstrated innovation and market potential
- Ability to deliver measurable economic benefits
- Technical feasibility of the proposed project
- Capability of the team to execute the project successfully
- Alignment with NRC IRAP's strategic priorities and program objectives
grant_single_labels|register
Here are the steps to submit an application for this grant:
- Step 1: Initial Contact and Inquiry
- Contact NRC IRAP toll-free at 1-877-994-4727 to express your interest and learn more about the program offerings.
- Discuss your project with an Industrial Technology Advisor (ITA) to assess the project's alignment with NRC IRAP's support resources.
- Step 2: Prepare Documentation
- Gather detailed information about your innovation project, including objectives, expected outcomes, and market potential.
- Compile necessary documentation such as business plans, research proposals, and financial statements.
- Step 3: Develop the Project Proposal
- Work collaboratively with the ITA to develop a comprehensive project proposal that outlines the project scope, timeline, and budget.
- Ensure that your proposal demonstrates the innovative nature and feasibility of your project.
- Step 4: Proposal Submission
- Submit your proposal through the appropriate NRC IRAP application portal or as directed by your ITA.
- Ensure all required fields and attachments are complete before submission.
- Step 5: Confirmation and Follow-up
- Receive a confirmation of receipt from NRC IRAP regarding your application submission.
- Maintain communication with your ITA for updates on the evaluation process and any additional information requests.
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Here are additional relevant details for this grant:
- Engaging with NRC IRAP provides access to a wide range of advisory services beyond mere funding.
- Applicants gain access to a diverse network of over 250 Industrial Technology Advisors (ITAs) who provide extensive R&D and management expertise.
- Through NRC IRAP, applicants can access numerous regional, national, and international partners offering customized support and insights.
- Applicants are offered connections to other vital resources such as local financing, technology partners, and networking opportunities.
- The program emphasizes fostering relationships with educational institutions and various governmental and industry bodies to support business growth and innovation.
- Applicants have access to problem-solving support, strategic intelligence, and community-specific opportunities.
- In addition to financial support, there are avenues for business and management skills development and knowledge-transfer opportunities.
grant_single_labels|contact
1-877-994-4727
Apply to this program
Empowering Innovation Through Comprehensive Support
The NRC IRAP grant offers Canadian businesses not only financial aid but also invaluable access to a robust network of industry expertise and resources, enhancing their innovation journey from concept to commercialization. By partnering with specialized Industrial Technology Advisors and leveraging a wide array of strategic partnerships, companies can drive their projects forward and firmly establish themselves within their respective markets.
Harnessing Strategic Resources for Business Success
The National Research Council of Canada's Industrial Research Assistance Program (NRC IRAP) is more than just a funding initiative; it serves as a catalyst for innovation and sound business growth. This program is meticulously designed to extend beyond financial assistance, providing companies with the essential industrial and technological resources needed to realize and commercialize new ideas effectively. Central to this support system are the Industrial Technology Advisors (ITAs), a team of over 250 experts equipped with specialized knowledge in engineering, science, and management. These advisors offer companies a plethora of insights spanning technical guidance, business strategies, and access to additional financial support avenues.
Each ITA is instrumental in offering tailored advice based on the unique needs and challenges of businesses. Their vast experience enables them to perform literature and patent searches that can shape the R&D direction of a project. Moreover, these advisors facilitate strategic connections, linking businesses with suitable partners and programs that can further enhance the research and development phase of the project.
Beyond individual expertise, the NRC IRAP grant is supported by a formidable network of regional, national, and international partners. This network grants companies access to a variety of benefits, including competitive intelligence that informs strategic decision-making, regional funding opportunities that can complement or expand project budgets, and the formation of alliances with university research departments that can provide cutting-edge technical knowledge.
Another vital component of NRC IRAP is its emphasis on nurturing business acumen. The program connects businesses with resources necessary for marketing and management skill development, ensuring that they are well-equipped to navigate the complexities of scaling operations. This holistic growth strategy aligns with community-specific opportunities, fostering not only business growth but also contributing to larger economic development within the region.
Furthermore, the grant's flexibility allows companies to tailor their approaches to fit the dynamic needs of their markets. This adaptability is crucial, as it ensures that the supported initiatives can evolve alongside technological advancements and market shifts, thereby maximizing their long-term impact and sustainability.
Eligible projects must meet stringent standards that underscore innovation potential, impact feasibility, and the overall alignment with NRC IRAP’s goals. These rigorous criteria guarantee that both the applicants and their proposed projects are of high caliber, ultimately maximizing the economic and developmental impact of the public funds allocated by the NRC IRAP.
In conclusion, the NRC IRAP grant stands as a comprehensive framework that not only empowers Canadian businesses to innovate but also connects them with the essential resources and strategic partnerships needed to thrive in the modern economy. It represents a symbiotic approach to fostering growth and innovation, ensuring that Canadian enterprises are well-positioned to make meaningful contributions to their industries and communities.
