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INVEST North Program — Innovation Stream - Ontario - Canada
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INVEST North Program — Innovation Stream

Innovation Stream supports new technology development in Northern Ontario
Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC)
Last Update: March 4, 2026
Funding available
$ 2,000,000
Timeline
  • Open continuously
Location
Ontario, Canada

Overview

The INVEST North Program - Innovation Stream, offered by the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC), is designed to boost the development and commercialization of new technologies in Northern Ontario. It provides financial support to private-sector businesses, either operating independently or in collaboration with public sector academic or research institutions. The program focuses on applied research and development, as well as the demonstration and commercialization of innovative technologies. Funding can cover up to 50% of eligible costs, with a maximum of $2 million depending on the project scope. Eligibility and funding details are specific to enhancing technological innovation and meeting market needs in the region.

/100
Opportunity Score
Moderate potential, but conditions must align.

At a glance

Funding available

Financing goals
  • Develop a new product or service
  • Access new markets
  • Launch or market a product/service
Eligible Funding
  • Maximum amount : 2,000,000 $
  • Up to 50% of project cost
Timeline
  • Open continuously

Eligible candidates

Eligible Industries
  • Manufacturing
  • Information and cultural industries
  • Professional, scientific and technical services
Location
  • Ontario
Legal structures
  • For-profit business
  • Sole proprietorship
Annual revenue
  • All revenue ranges
Organisation size
  • All organization sizes
Audience
  • Rural or Northern Residents
  • Startups

Next steps

1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility

Eligibility

Who is eligible?

Private-sector businesses either independently or in partnership with public sector academic or research institutions are eligible to apply. The grant supports projects led by private-sector businesses that engage in innovative technology development, provided they have the expertise or collaboration with a public sector partner when applicable.

Who is not eligible

This grant opportunity is specific and restricts eligibility to ensure alignment with the program's objectives. However, the provided information does not specifically mention any industries or status-based restrictions apart from those related to eligible project types and activities.

Eligible expenses

The Innovation Stream grant supports projects that enhance technological advancement and commercialization in Northern Ontario, focusing on market-driven innovations. Eligible activities include a wide range of applied research and development as well as demonstration and commercialization efforts.

  • Direct internal technical labour costs associated with the development and commercialization of new technology.
  • Prototyping costs, including engineering and design services and fabrication and installation relevant to the technology development.
  • Product testing to ensure the effectiveness and viability of a new technology.
  • Intellectual property protection costs to secure ownership of innovations.
  • Research and development services provided by academic or research partners.
  • Building or renovation costs that are directly related to the commercialization phase.
  • Prototype demonstration costs for showcasing the technology.
  • Material costs necessary for prototype or product development.
  • Product certification costs to meet market or industry standards.
  • Marketing costs, capped at 20% of total eligible project costs, for trade show assistance and marketing material design.

Eligible geographic areas

This grant supports the development of new and innovative technologies within Northern Ontario. It is specifically aimed at enhancing the region's economic growth through technological advancements.

  • Businesses located within Northern Ontario.

Additional information

Here are additional relevant details for this grant:

  • Applications including demonstration & commercialization costs must show proof of IP rights and technology validation.
  • The applicant may need to reimburse NOHFC if any funded assets are sold within three years of project completion.
  • The grant allows for stacking with other government funding, up to 75% of eligible project costs.
  • For prototype demonstration projects, up to three prototypes are eligible, with case-by-case exceptions possible.
  • Direct internal technical labour funded is restricted to efforts in Northern Ontario.
  • No funding for labour costs for shareholders with a significant ownership stake, except potentially for sole proprietors.

Frequently Asked Questions about the INVEST North Program — Innovation Stream Program

Here are answers to the most common questions about the INVEST North Program — Innovation Stream. 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 INVEST North Program — Innovation Stream?

The INVEST North Program - Innovation Stream, offered by the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC), is designed to boost the development and commercialization of new technologies in Northern Ontario. It provides financial support to private-sector businesses, either operating independently or in collaboration with public sector academic or research institutions. The program focuses on applied research and development, as well as the demonstration and commercialization of innovative technologies. Funding can cover up to 50% of eligible costs, with a maximum of $2 million depending on the project scope. Eligibility and funding details are specific to enhancing technological innovation and meeting market needs in the region.

How much funding can be received?

INVEST North Program — Innovation Stream Funds up to 50% of admissible expenses, capped at $2,000,000 per project.

Who is eligible for the INVEST North Program — Innovation Stream program?

To be eligible for the INVEST North Program — Innovation Stream program, you must: Eligible applicants are private-sector businesses, either alone or in partnership with a public sector academic or research institution. In public-private partnership projects, the private-sector business acts as the lead applicant and funding recipient. Partnering academic or research institutions must possess relevant expertise and resources for project completion.

Who can I contact for more information about the INVEST North Program — Innovation Stream?

You can contact Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC).

Where is the INVEST North Program — Innovation Stream available?

The INVEST North Program — Innovation Stream program is available the province of Ontario.

Is the INVEST North Program — Innovation Stream a grant, loan, or tax credit?

INVEST North Program — Innovation Stream is a Grant and Funding

Who are the financial supporters of the INVEST North Program — Innovation Stream?

INVEST North Program — Innovation Stream is funded by Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC)

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