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Innovation for Defence Excellence and Security (IDEaS)
Funding projects for innovative defence and security solutions
Last Update: March 30, 2026
Funding available
Up to 100% of project cost
Timeline
- Closing date : April 28, 2026
Location
Canada
Overview
Check out current and future challenges and submit your ideas for a chance to get money to pursue your ideas and help the Canadian Armed Forces solve defence and security issues.
/100
Opportunity Score
Moderate potential, but conditions must align.
At a glance
Funding available
Financing goals
- Conduct research and development activities
Eligible Funding
- Up to 100% of project cost
Timeline
- Closing date : April 28, 2026
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- Professional, scientific and technical services
- Public administration
Location
- Canada
Legal structures
- For-profit business
Annual revenue
- All revenue ranges
Organisation size
- All organization sizes
Audience
- Canadians
- Startups
Next Steps
1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility
Activities funded
The IDEaS program supports Canadian innovators in addressing defence and security challenges. It offers various mechanisms to propel technological development and foster innovation through collaboration and competition.
- Development of technologies through Competitive Projects with phased funding up to $1.2 million.
- Creation of Innovation Networks to facilitate idea exchange, backed by funding up to $3 million.
- Participation in Contests to compete for the advancement of innovative solutions.
- Engagement in Sandboxes for real-world testing and development of technologies with expert support.
- Implementation of Test Drives by the Department of National Defence to evaluate and refine technology solutions.
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
The IDEaS program allows applications from a wide range of participants including industry members, academia, and other innovators who focus on defence and security.Eligible applicants typically include:- Canadian companies and businesses engaged in technology development.- Academic and research institutions based in Canada.- Not-for-profit organizations involved in security and defence research.- Innovators and entrepreneurs who are able to bring new ideas and concepts that align with national defence and security priorities.Eligible expenses
There are eligible expenses for the Innovation for Defence Excellence and Security (IDEaS) program:
- Research and development costs
- Prototyping and testing expenses
- Technology demonstration costs
- Networking and collaboration expenses
- Travel costs related to project implementation
Eligible geographic areas
This grant is designed to support Canadian innovators in addressing defence and security challenges. It aligns with national interests in fostering technological advancements and strategic innovations.
- Organizations based in Canada.
Additional information
Here are additional relevant details for this grant:
- Participants have access to feedback from military experts, which can enhance the development of their technologies.
- The IDEaS program promotes networking, offering opportunities to build partnerships with other innovators and stakeholders in the defence sector.
- There are various events hosted or participated in by IDEaS to foster defence innovation, which participants can attend.
Documents and links
Frequently Asked Questions about the Innovation for Defence Excellence and Security (IDEaS) Program
Here are answers to the most common questions about the Innovation for Defence Excellence and Security (IDEaS). 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 Innovation for Defence Excellence and Security (IDEaS)?
Check out current and future challenges and submit your ideas for a chance to get money to pursue your ideas and help the Canadian Armed Forces solve defence and security issues.
How much funding can be received?
Innovation for Defence Excellence and Security (IDEaS) Funds up to 100% of admissible expenses.
Who is eligible for the Innovation for Defence Excellence and Security (IDEaS) program?
To be eligible for the Innovation for Defence Excellence and Security (IDEaS) program, you must:
The applicant must be a Canadian innovator providing solutions to defence and security challenges.
The project should address a specific challenge faced by the Canadian Armed Forces.
The applicant is encouraged to have technology ready for testing and feedback.
What expenses are eligible under Innovation for Defence Excellence and Security (IDEaS)?
The IDEaS program supports Canadian innovators in addressing defence and security challenges. It offers various mechanisms to propel technological development and foster innovation through collaboration and competition. Development of technologies through Competitive Projects with phased funding up to $1.2 million.
Creation of Innovation Networks to facilitate idea exchange, backed by funding up to $3 million.
Participation in Contests to compete for the advancement of innovative solutions.
Engagement in Sandboxes for real-world testing and development of technologies with expert support.
Implementation of Test Drives by the Department of National Defence to evaluate and refine technology solutions.
Who can I contact for more information about the Innovation for Defence Excellence and Security (IDEaS)?
You can contact Department of National Defence (DND).
Where is the Innovation for Defence Excellence and Security (IDEaS) available?
The Innovation for Defence Excellence and Security (IDEaS) program is available across Canada.
Is the Innovation for Defence Excellence and Security (IDEaS) a grant, loan, or tax credit?
Innovation for Defence Excellence and Security (IDEaS) is a Grant and Funding