Innovation for Defence Excellence and Security (IDEaS) - Canada

Innovation for Defence Excellence and Security (IDEaS)

grant_single|update April 4, 2025
Canada
Funding projects for innovative defence and security solutions

grant_single_labels|summary

grant_single|eligibleFinancing
  • grant_single|projectCostPercent
grant_single|deadlines
  • grant_single|openingDate November 14, 2019
grant_single|financingType
Grant and Funding
grant_single|eligibleIndustries
  • Professional, scientific and technical services
  • Public administration
grant_single|grantors
  • Government of Canada
  • Department of National Defence
grant_single|status
grant_card_status|open

grant_single_labels|preview

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.

grant_single_labels|projects

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.
grant_single|admissibleProjectsExample

$ 750,000

Develop an AI-powered software to detect unmanned underwater threats

$ 1,800,000

Establishment of an innovation lab for defense technology

$ 500,000

Development of an advanced drone system for surveillance in challenging terrains

$ 700,000

Designing a mobile app for real-time disaster response coordination

$ 1,000,000

Creation of a secure communication platform for military units

$ 800,000

Creating a cybersecurity network to protect critical infrastructure from cyber-attacks

grant_single_labels|admissibility

IDEaS program provides funding to Canadian innovators to solve defence and security challenges through various mechanisms. Eligibility criteria for this grant include:
  • Applicants must be Canadian innovators.
  • Projects must align with defence and security challenges.
  • Specific eligibility criteria may vary based on the funding mechanism chosen.

grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply

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.

grant_eligibility_criteria|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

grant_eligibility_criteria|zone

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.

grant_single_labels|criteria

There are evaluation and selection criteria for the IDEaS program:
  • Relevance to Defence and Security Challenges
  • Innovation and Technical Merit
  • Impact and Benefits
  • Feasibility and Implementation
  • Team and Partnership

grant_single_labels|apply

1
Get Informed
  • Visit the IDEaS program website to explore the application process and funding mechanisms.
  • Join the mailing list for updates on new Calls for Proposals.
2
Identify Relevant Opportunities
  • Review current challenges and funding opportunities presented by IDEaS.
  • Select the opportunity that aligns with your innovation and expertise.
3
Prepare Proposal
  • Develop a detailed project proposal, including objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes.
  • Include necessary supporting documents such as budgets, certifications, and demonstration of capabilities.
4
Draft Application
  • Complete the application forms as required by the specific funding mechanism.
  • Ensure all sections are filled accurately and all required attachments are included.
5
Submit Application
  • Submit your application through the designated submission portal on the IDEaS website.
  • Verify submission and check for a confirmation receipt to ensure the application has been received.
6
Await Feedback
  • Monitor communications from IDEaS for feedback or requests for additional information.
  • Prepare to address any follow-up requests promptly to facilitate the evaluation process.

grant_single_labels|otherInfo

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.

grant_single_labels|documents

Innovation for Defence Excellence and Security (IDEaS)

Apply to this program

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