Open
LIFT — Lead with Innovation and Focus on Technology
Support for AI and advanced equipment
Last Update: June 4, 2026
Funding available
Varies by project
Timeline
- Open continuously
Location
Canada
Overview
LIFT helps Canadian businesses invest in advanced technology, AI, digital tools, cybersecurity, automation, and productivity-enhancing equipment. It combines consulting and financing with preferential terms and is designed to support business efficiency and competitiveness.
/100
Opportunity Score
Moderate potential, but conditions must align.
At a glance
Funding available
Financing goals
- Increase performance through digital transformation
- Increase production or service capacity
- Increase operational productivity
Eligible Funding
- Varies by project
Timeline
- Open continuously
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- All industries
Location
- Canada
Legal structures
- For-profit business
Annual revenue
- $ 1 minimum revenue
Organisation size
- All organization sizes
Audience
- Canadians
Next Steps
1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility
Activities funded
- Adopting AI and digital solutions.
- Strengthening cybersecurity.
- Automating operations.
- Upgrading equipment with advanced technology.
Documents Needed
- Project and business information
- Technology or productivity plan
- BDC Advisory Services plan for the digital transformation and AI stream
Official resources
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
- Canadian businesses
- Businesses in any industry for the AI and digital transformation stream
- Businesses in manufacturing, transport and warehousing, wholesale, construction, agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting, architectural, engineering and related services, mining, quarrying, oil and gas extraction for the productivity and equipment stream
Who is not eligible
- Businesses outside the eligible sectors for the productivity and equipment stream
- Businesses that do not meet the minimum revenue requirement
Eligible expenses
- Equipment purchases and related implementation costs.
- Installation and integration costs directly tied to the technology investment.
Eligible geographic areas
- Canada
Selection criteria
- Alignment with the program’s goal of improving efficiency or competitiveness.
- Financial health of the business.
- Industry eligibility for the selected stream.
- Nature of the project and its fit with the program.
How to apply
1
Start your request
- Start your request online and share your project details.
- Provide information about your business.
2
Speak with an advisor
- Speak with an advisor to review your needs.
- Confirm the next steps for your project.
3
Access financing
- Access financing to move your investment forward.
- Put your project into motion after the review.
Processing and Agreement
- Applications are reviewed after submission.
- An advisor discusses the project and assesses needs.
- Funding depends on review and approval.
Additional information
- Preferential rates apply when technology solutions are sourced from Canadian suppliers.
- BDC Advisory Services can help assess readiness and build or refine a project plan.
- Some sector-specific exceptions apply for the productivity and equipment stream.
Contacts
Frequently Asked Questions about the LIFT — Lead with Innovation and Focus on Technology Program
What is the LIFT — Lead with Innovation and Focus on Technology?
LIFT helps Canadian businesses invest in advanced technology, AI, digital tools, cybersecurity, automation, and productivity-enhancing equipment. It combines consulting and financing with preferential terms and is designed to support business efficiency and competitiveness.
Who is eligible for the LIFT — Lead with Innovation and Focus on Technology program?
To be eligible for the LIFT — Lead with Innovation and Focus on Technology program, you must:
Canadian business
Minimum annual revenue
Project plan required
What expenses are eligible under LIFT — Lead with Innovation and Focus on Technology?
Adopting AI and digital solutions.
Strengthening cybersecurity.
Automating operations.
Upgrading equipment with advanced technology.
Who can I contact for more information about the LIFT — Lead with Innovation and Focus on Technology?
You can contact Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) or by phone at 1-877-232-2269.
Where is the LIFT — Lead with Innovation and Focus on Technology available?
The LIFT — Lead with Innovation and Focus on Technology program is available across Canada.
Is the LIFT — Lead with Innovation and Focus on Technology a grant, loan, or tax credit?
LIFT — Lead with Innovation and Focus on Technology is a Expert Advice
Who are the financial supporters of the LIFT — Lead with Innovation and Focus on Technology?
LIFT — Lead with Innovation and Focus on Technology is funded by Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC)