Industrial Research Assistance Program (IRAP) — Financial Assistance
At a glance
- Max. $10,000,000
- 75% of project cost
- Open Date : September 08, 2022
- Manufacturing
- Professional, scientific and technical services
- Government of Canada
Overview
Eligibility criteria
- Be a citizen or permanent resident of the concerned country.
- Have reached the age of majority in your jurisdiction of residence.
- Meet specific program or offer requirements (examples: income level, employment status).
- Not be disqualified for legal or regulatory reasons.
- Provide all necessary documentation to prove eligibility.
Who is eligible
- Individuals with citizenship or permanent residency status.
- Legally registered businesses operating within the concerned country.
- Registered nonprofit organizations and non-profit associations.
- Educational institutions recognized by the relevant authorities.
- Groups or collectives that meet the specific criteria of the program or call for projects.
Who is not eligible
- Individuals without a valid legal or residential status in the concerned country.
- Businesses or organizations that are bankrupt or in judicial liquidation.
- Entities under legal or regulatory sanctions that prevent their participation.
- Individuals with a criminal record that renders them ineligible according to the program's criteria.
- Political organizations or groups whose activities are contrary to the program's objectives.
Eligible expenses
- Costs related to the research and development of new products or services.
- Purchase of materials and equipment necessary for project implementation.
- Personnel expenses, including salaries of employees working directly on the project.
- Professional training expenses to improve skills related to the project.
- Marketing, promotion, and dissemination costs for launching products or services.
- Consulting fees and specific external professional services for the project.
- Rent for premises, equipment, or technologies necessary for the project.
- Expenses related to environmental protection and project sustainability.
Eligible projects & activities
- Design and development of innovative products or services.
- Research and development in industry-specific areas.
- Initiatives aimed at promoting environmental sustainability and carbon emission reduction.
- Education and training programs aimed at enhancing skills and employability.
- Cultural and artistic projects that enrich community heritage.
- Public health activities aimed at improving population well-being.
- Development of information and communication technologies for information access and civic participation.
- Social and economic inclusion initiatives for marginalized groups.
Eligible geographic areas
- Urban areas with a specific need for economic or social development.
- Rural areas that benefit from programs aimed at reducing regional disparities.
- Disadvantaged neighborhoods targeted by urban revitalization initiatives.
- Regions affected by industrial transitions, requiring support for economic conversion.
- Territories impacted by environmental issues, such as deforestation or pollution.
- Indigenous or minority communities with specific needs for support and cultural preservation.
Evaluation & selection criteria
- Relevance of the project to the goals of the program or call for projects.
- Innovation and originality of the proposed approach or solution.
- Technical and financial feasibility of the project.
- Potential impact on the targeted community or sector, including economic, social, and environmental benefits.
- Quality and clarity of the project plan, including goals, methodologies, and success indicators.
- Skills and experience of the project team, including the capacity to complete the project.
- Local support and partnerships, demonstrating the commitment of the community or other key stakeholders.
- Sustainability and potential for the project's longevity beyond the funding period.
How to apply
- Eligibility Criteria Check : Ensure you meet all the eligibility criteria before starting your application.
- Gathering Necessary Documents : Collect all required documents and information for your application.
- Online Registration : Fill out the application form online on the website of the program or the funding organization.
- Project Description : Develop a detailed description of your project, including objectives, action plan, budget, and expected impact.
- Submission of Application : Submit your complete application dossier before the specified deadline.
- Follow-Up : After submission, keep an eye on your email and other communication means for any updates or requests for additional information.
Additional information
- Pre-Application Consultation : It's recommended to consult with a program advisor before submitting your application to clarify any doubts and optimize your dossier.
- Information Sessions : Attend information sessions or workshops organized by the funding entity to better understand the process and expectations.
- Deadline Compliance : Pay close attention to deadlines, including for document submission and potential selection phases.
- Preparation for Evaluation : Be prepared to participate in interviews or present your project to an evaluation committee if required.
- Revision and Feedback : Be open to feedback and ready to revise your proposal based on the comments received from evaluators.
- Financial Planning : Ensure you have a clear and realistic financial plan, accounting for all costs associated with the project.
Contact information
Grant Summary
NRC IRAP provides financial support to small and medium-sized Canadian businesses for technology-driven innovation projects to help them grow and expand. Eligible firms can receive funding of up to $10 million for larger research and development projects to achieve transformative growth within 5 years.
Grant Details
NRC IRAP offers financial support to incorporated, profit-oriented small or medium-sized businesses in Canada with 500 or fewer full-time equivalent employees. To be considered for support, firms must plan to develop and commercialize innovative, technology-driven products, services, or processes in Canada. If eligible, businesses will work with an industrial technology advisor to assess their needs and develop a project proposal. The funding can be used to share the costs of research and development activities, with ongoing support from the advisor throughout the project.
For more information, eligible businesses can contact NRC IRAP at 1-877-994-4727 to determine their eligibility and begin the application process. The program aims to support businesses in achieving expected results, commercializing their innovations, and benefiting the Canadian economy through growth and transformation.