- Open continuously
Overview
The Supply AI at MaRS program supports high-potential Canadian ventures focused on building applied AI and intelligent supply chain products and services. It provides selected companies with hands-on advice, mentorship, market insights, and crucial connections to capital, talent, and customers, aiming to foster the next generation of global leaders in supply chain AI technologies. Eligible activities include business advisory services, AI/ML consulting, market intelligence, and participation in exclusive events and demo days.
At a glance
Funding available
- Increase performance through digital transformation
- Develop strategic partnerships
- Attract or retain talent
- Varies by project
- Open continuously
Eligible candidates
- Manufacturing
- Professional, scientific and technical services
- Ontario
- For-profit business
- All revenue ranges
- 500 employees maximum
- Startups
Next Steps
Activities funded
The Supply AI at MaRS grant is focused on accelerating high-potential Canadian ventures that create applied AI solutions for the supply chain. Eligible projects center around enhancing AI capabilities and integrating these technologies into the supply chain sector.
- Development and implementation of AI technologies for supply chain optimization and efficiency.
- Creation of intelligent products and services that leverage AI for better supply chain management.
- Projects that demonstrate strong market traction and customer interest in AI supply chain applications.
- Innovative solutions that advance the state of AI in manufacturing and supply chain sectors.
- Initiatives that promote venture scalability through AI and attract investment in the supply chain domain.
Official resources
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
This program is designed to assist high-potential Canadian ventures focused on AI and intelligent supply chain innovations through support and acceleration services.
- Focus on applied AI and intelligent supply chain products and/or services.
- Incorporated, based, and operating in Canada.
- The venture is less than two years old, or employs fewer than 500 globally, or has an annual revenue growth rate exceeding 20% over the past three years.
- An existing MaRS Growth Services venture company or a part of an incubator, accelerator, or other entrepreneurial program in Canada.
- At the validation stage with a minimum viable product demonstrating technology solving a real market problem, or at efficiency stage with initial market traction.
- Falls under one of the enumerated industry sectors and supply chain categories.
- Demonstrated evidence of customer interest and traction.
Eligible expenses
This grant supports projects that integrate AI into supply chains with the aim to foster emerging Canadian ventures in the supply chain AI sector. The focus is on accelerating growth and scaling high-potential supply chain products and services utilizing AI technology.
- Development of AI-driven supply chain products and services.
- Integration of AI in logistics to enhance efficiency and reliability.
- Creation of intelligent inventory management systems using AI.
- Implementation of AI-powered predictive analytics in supply chain operations.
Eligible geographic areas
This grant is available to companies located in Canada, as per the program's specific requirements. Companies must be incorporated, based, and operating within this national boundary to qualify.
- Companies incorporated in Canada.
- Businesses based in Canada.
- Organizations operating within Canada.
Selection criteria
Yes, there are evaluation and selection criteria for this grant. The criteria ensure that the applicant ventures are well-positioned to benefit from and contribute to the Supply AI program at MaRS.
- Incorporated, based, and operating in Canada.
- Focused on applied AI and intelligent supply chain products and/or services.
- Less than two years old, or employing fewer than 500 globally (including its affiliates), or having an average annualized revenue growth rate of greater than 20 percent over the past three years.
- An existing MaRS Growth Services venture company at the time of application, or part of and referred by an incubator, accelerator, or other entrepreneurial program within Canada.
- Must join the MaRS portfolio if selected for the program.
- At the validation stage, with a minimum viable product (MVP) and evidence that its technology solves a real problem for an identified market, or at the efficiency stage, experiencing initial traction in a receptive market to build a business in.
- Fall under one of the industry sectors and supply chain categories outlined in the application form.
- Demonstrate evidence of customer interest and traction.
How to apply
Confirm Eligibility
Ensure your venture meets all eligibility criteria including incorporation and operation in Canada, focus on applied AI and intelligent supply chains, and status as an existing MaRS Growth Services venture or referred by a recognized Canadian program.
Assemble Required Documents
- Prepare documents demonstrating customer interest and traction.
- Gather proof of MVP development and evidence of problem-solving capabilities.
Application Through MaRS or Referral Program
If not already listed, ensure your venture becomes a part of MaRS Growth Services portfolio or obtain a referral from a recognized incubator, accelerator, or entrepreneurial program in Canada.
Application Submission
Contact ageary@marsdd.com for details on how and where to submit the application if specific application portal details are not provided.
Review and Confirmation
Await confirmation of application receipt and any feedback or requests for further information from the Supply AI at MaRS team.