Closed
Source verified July 23, 2026
Innovative Solutions Canada - Low-Emission Electric Aircraft Propulsion Systems for Arctic Operations
Advances low-emission Arctic aviation propulsion
Funding available
$ 2,000,000
Deadline
July 16, 2026
Opened June 18, 2026
Location
Canada
Overview
Low-emission electric propulsion systems for arctic aviation is an Innovative Solutions Canada challenge for Canadian for-profit SMEs, with Phase 2 funding up to CAD 2,000,000 to support low-emission aviation innovation in remote and extreme Arctic operations. It focuses on prototype R&D, modular electric engines, and testing in challenging environmental conditions.
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At a glance
Funding available
Financing goals
- Develop strategic partnerships
- Develop team skills
- Develop a new product or service
Eligible Funding
- Maximum amount : 2,000,000 $
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- All industries
Location
- Canada
Legal structures
- For-profit business
Annual revenue
- All revenue ranges
Organisation size
- 499 employees maximum
Audience
- All groups
Next Steps
1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility
Activities funded
- Research and development to develop a prototype for Phase 2
- Development of a modular low-emission electric aviation engine made up of a motor, inverter, and controller
- Testing clean aviation technologies and solutions in challenging environmental conditions
Documents Needed
- Challenge Stream Submission Form
Official resources
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
- For-profit companies
- Companies incorporated in Canada at the federal or provincial level
- Small and medium-sized enterprises with 499 FTEs or fewer
- Companies conducting research and development in Canada
Eligible expenses
- Salary costs
- Contractor and subcontractor fees
- Travel expenses
- Indirect costs
- Materials, patenting, and capital costs
Ineligible Costs and Activities
- Purchase or rental of land or buildings
- Renovation or construction, and other real estate-related costs
- Financing costs, legal fees, and loan interest
- Goods or services received as donations or non-financial contributions
- Property taxes and lobbyist fees
Eligible geographic areas
- Canada
Selection criteria
- Post-evaluation selection gives priority to firms with a demonstrated track record of research and development in electric motors for harsh environments
- Proposals must achieve a Pass on all mandatory criteria to proceed to the point-rated stage
- Direct Phase 2 entry requires a minimum score of 65 out of 130 possible points
How to apply
- Submit the proposal using the electronic application form on the challenge page.
- If electronic submission is not possible, contact solutions@ised-isde.gc.ca before the closing date and time to arrange delivery.
- Only the electronic submission sent through the SIC web system is normally considered if multiple versions are submitted.
Processing and Agreement
- Final Phase 2 award decisions will be made by Canada based on evaluation results, departmental priorities, and availability of funds
- The Government of Canada reserves the right to make partial awards and negotiate project scope changes
- Kick-off, progress review, and final review communications will take place by telephone or videoconference
Additional information
- Questions about this challenge must be sent in writing to solutions@ised-isde.gc.ca.
- Information requests must be submitted at least 10 calendar days before the closing date.
- For direct entry to Phase 2, the technology must be between TRL 5 and 9.
- The Canada Revenue Agency may request interim and final reports, including updates on R&D work completed to date.
Contacts
Frequently Asked Questions about the Innovative Solutions Canada - Low-Emission Electric Aircraft Propulsion Systems for Arctic Operations Program
What is the Innovative Solutions Canada - Low-Emission Electric Aircraft Propulsion Systems for Arctic Operations?
Low-emission electric propulsion systems for arctic aviation is an Innovative Solutions Canada challenge for Canadian for-profit SMEs, with Phase 2 funding up to CAD 2,000,000 to support low-emission aviation innovation in remote and extreme Arctic operations. It focuses on prototype R&D, modular electric engines, and testing in challenging environmental conditions.
How much funding can be received?
Innovative Solutions Canada - Low-Emission Electric Aircraft Propulsion Systems for Arctic Operations Funds up to $2,000,000 of admissible expenses.
What is the deadline to apply?
The application deadline for this grant program was July 16, 2026.
Who is eligible for the Innovative Solutions Canada - Low-Emission Electric Aircraft Propulsion Systems for Arctic Operations program?
To be eligible for the Innovative Solutions Canada - Low-Emission Electric Aircraft Propulsion Systems for Arctic Operations program, you must:
For-profit companies incorporated in Canada
Small and medium-sized businesses with 499 or fewer full-time equivalent employees
Companies that conduct research and development in Canada and meet the Canada-based wage, workplace, and senior executive residence requirements
What expenses are eligible under Innovative Solutions Canada - Low-Emission Electric Aircraft Propulsion Systems for Arctic Operations?
Research and development to develop a prototype for Phase 2
Development of a modular low-emission electric aviation engine made up of a motor, inverter, and controller
Testing clean aviation technologies and solutions in challenging environmental conditions
Who can I contact for more information about the Innovative Solutions Canada - Low-Emission Electric Aircraft Propulsion Systems for Arctic Operations?
You can contact National Research Council Canada (NRC) by email at solutions@ised-isde.gc.ca.
Where is the Innovative Solutions Canada - Low-Emission Electric Aircraft Propulsion Systems for Arctic Operations available?
The Innovative Solutions Canada - Low-Emission Electric Aircraft Propulsion Systems for Arctic Operations program is available across Canada.