MTRIC — Start Program
QC, Canada
Advance metal transformation processes and products
grant_single_labels|summary
grant_single|eligibleFinancing
- grant_single|maxCount
- grant_single|projectCostPercent
grant_single|deadlines
- grant_single|timelineUnspecified
grant_single|financingType
Grant and Funding
Partnering and Collaboration
grant_single|eligibleIndustries
- Manufacturing
grant_single|grantors
- Metal Transformation Research and Innovation Consortium (MTRIC)
grant_single|status
grant_card_status|open
grant_single_labels|preview
The AMORCE program by CRITM aims to foster new collaborations between Quebec-based startups or SMEs and research institutions, advancing their products or processes in the metal transformation sector. Eligible activities include developing new transformation processes, creating advanced metallic products, reducing ecological footprints, and implementing digital innovations.
grant_single_labels|projects
This grant is specifically available to Quebec-based startups or SMEs involved in metal transformation sectors. Eligibility is determined by the company's legal registration and operational base within this province.
- Quebec, Canada
grant_single|admissibleProjectsExample
$10,000
Development of a new alloy for lightweight automotive parts
$10,000
Automation of metal welding processes using Industry 40 technologies
$10,000
Research on new renewable energy metal recovery processes
$10,000
Implementation of AI to optimize metal cutting processes
$10,000
Development of eco-friendly metal finishing processes
$10,000
Improving the design and manufacturability of aerospace components
grant_single_labels|admissibility
To qualify for this grant, startups and SMEs must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Be legally incorporated under federal or Quebec laws and registered with the Quebec Enterprise Register.
- Have their headquarters in Quebec and ensure their employees or subcontractors primarily work out of Quebec.
- Employ 249 or fewer employees in Quebec.
- Be a member in good standing of the CRITM, with potential free membership for startups upon request.
- Not be directly or indirectly controlled by any government, municipal entity, or state-owned enterprise, nor listed as ineligible for public contracts or under creditor protection laws.
- If 50% or more owned by other businesses or organizations, eligibility must be confirmed by CRITM.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply
The CRITM grant program AMORCE is specifically aimed at supporting startups and SMEs in Québec engaged in the metallurgical transformation sector. Eligible organizations must meet specific criteria related to their legal status, operations, and membership in CRITM.
- Startups and small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) legally constituted under federal or Québec laws.
- Organizations must have their headquarters in Québec and their workforce must primarily operate within the province.
- The organization should have 249 or fewer employees located in Québec.
- The enterprise must be a current member of CRITM to access the funding.
- Projects should align with eligible sectors such as metal extraction, primary production, various stages of metal transformation, production of finished products, and metal recycling.
- Projects must involve a direct partnership with recognized research institutions such as universities or specialized research centers.
- Eligible projects must focus on critical and strategic metals, including but not limited to steel, aluminum, nickel, titanium, magnesium, copper, zinc, and rare earth elements.
- Organizations not eligible for this grant are those controlled by government entities or under insolvency protection, and firms with significant government ownership.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_cannot_apply
This grant excludes certain companies from applying due to ownership and legal status restrictions to ensure the focus remains on eligible Québec startups or SMEs.
- Companies controlled directly or indirectly by a government, municipal entity, or state corporation.
- Companies registered as ineligible for public contracts.
- Businesses under protection pursuant to the Companies' Creditors Arrangement Act or the Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act.
grant_eligibility_criteria|eligible_expenses
This grant is focused on advancing research and development in the metallic transformation sector, specifically encouraging partnerships between startups or SMEs and research institutions. Eligible activities include a range of projects aimed at improving processes, developing new products, and reducing environmental impacts.
- Development of new or improved metal transformation processes, including automation and industry 4.0 applications.
- Creation of advanced metallic products, such as new alloys and lightweight structures.
- Projects focused on reducing ecological footprints, including the development of eco-responsible and energy-efficient processes.
- Innovations in digital technologies applied to the metal transformation industry, incorporating AI and quantum technologies.
grant_eligibility_criteria|zone
The AMORCE program grant covers specific expenses related to research services provided by the institution.
- Salaries and benefits of personnel involved in the research project.
- Materials, consumables, and supplies required for the project.
- Equipment rental costs necessary for the research activities.
- Travel and accommodation expenses incurred for project purposes.
- Indirect research costs (FIR) for universities, colleges, and CCTTs.
grant_single_labels|criteria
The evaluation and selection of projects for this grant are based on specific criteria to ensure alignment with the grant’s strategic objectives and the quality of proposed collaborations.
- Pertinence and potential impact of the initiative.
- Quality of the offer of services from the research partner.
- Effectiveness of the collaboration and partnership.
- Adherence to the stipulated research axes of the CRITM.
- Compliance with criteria of newness for the proposed partnership and initiative.
grant_single_labels|register
Here are the steps to submit an application for this grant:
- Step 1: Verify Eligibility (Initial Check)
- Ensure your startup or SME operates in the metal transformation sector.
- Confirm your company is registered in Quebec and meets the size and structure criteria.
- Verify membership with the CRITM; apply for membership if not yet a member.
- Step 2: Partner with a Research Institution (Collaboration Requirement)
- Identify and establish a collaboration with an eligible research institution such as universities, CCTTs, or other designated centers.
- Ensure the partnership aligns with one or more of the CRITM's research axes.
- Step 3: Prepare the Proposal (Documentation)
- Define the project, objectives, and expected deliverables.
- Outline the methodology and detailed plan of implementation, including a Gantt chart.
- Detail the cost distribution, ensuring compliance with funding norms, including FIRs.
- Step 4: Complete the Application Form (Formal Submission)
- Access the CRITM project submission portal.
- Fill out the required application form with detailed project information and attach the offer of services from the research institution.
- Step 5: Submit Application (Final Step)
- Send the completed application form and all required documents to the CRITM via the specified submission portal or email submission option.
- Ensure submission before application deadline or as per rolling basis availability.
- Step 6: Await Evaluation (Post-Submission)
- The application will be reviewed by a neutral ad hoc committee formed by CRITM.
- Be prepared to respond to any follow-up questions or requests for additional information.
grant_single_labels|otherInfo
Various guidelines and requirements are outlined for the AMORCE program administered by CRITM.
- Submissions can be made at any time and are evaluated by an ad hoc committee.
- The program targets Quebec-based startups and SMEs with a technological maturity level of 1 to 6.
- Projects should focus on the transformation of metals like steel, aluminum, and other critical minerals.
- Eligible projects should have a maximum duration of 12 months and involve new collaborations.
- Funding will cover 70% of eligible expenses, with a maximum contribution of $10,000 per initiative.
- At least 20% of the project cost must be covered by the enterprise, and cumulative public funds should not exceed 80%.
- Startups or SMEs must be legally registered in Quebec and have their main operations there.
- A single active application per enterprise is allowed at a time, with preference given to first-time applicants.
- Intellectual property generated belongs to the project partners, not CRITM.
- A compliant French-language website may be required, along with proof of francization processes for companies with 50 or more employees.
- Various expenses are covered, including salaries, materials, equipment rentals, and travel costs.
grant_single_labels|contact
jfstcyr@critm.ca
Apply to this program
Unlocking Innovation in Québec's Metal Transformation Sector
The AMORCE program by CRITM supports new collaborative research initiatives between Québec's startups or SMEs and research institutions, promoting advancements in metal transformation processes and products. With up to $10,000 in funding per initiative, the program incentivizes projects that align with CRITM's strategic research focus areas.
Detailed Insight into the AMORCE Grant Program
The AMORCE grant program, spearheaded by Le Consortium de recherche et d’innovation en transformation métallique (CRITM), serves as a pivotal catalyst for innovation and collaboration in Québec’s metal transformation sector. It provides substantial financial backing to encourage partnerships between small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) or startups and academic or research institutions. These collaborations are essential for the development of new technologies, processes, or products that align with CRITM’s broad research priorities such as process development, advanced metallic product design, ecological footprint reduction, and digital innovation.
The core aim of the AMORCE program is to generate insights and knowledge that directly benefit the metal transformation industry by encouraging new research partnerships. Through this program, SMEs and startups are empowered to enhance their technical capabilities by accessing cutting-edge resources and expertise available at research institutions. In doing so, they drive their innovation capabilities forward, thereby laying a foundation for wider research and development ventures.
Eligible businesses include those legally established in Québec with a focus on various aspects of metal transformation, encompassing extraction, production, and recycling of critical and strategic minerals. The emphasis here is on metals such as steel, aluminum, and other critical minerals identified by the provincial government as pivotal for economic growth. This comprehensive focus ensures that projects utilizing this grant not only address direct research goals but also contribute significantly to the larger goals of sustainability and economic resilience in the province.
To participate, businesses must demonstrate collaboration with a recognized research entity. This partnership not only ensures the technical and methodological rigor of the project but also enhances the likelihood of successful outcomes. Partnerships are carefully planned to ensure alignment with CRITM’s strategic research themes, thereby amplifying the potential for meaningful breakthroughs in the field.
The financial structure of the AMORCE program is designed to lower the barrier for entry to meaningful research collaborations. By providing up to 70% funding for eligible project expenses, the program makes significant contributions towards covering the costs associated with research services. This includes personnel salaries, materials, equipment rental, and travel expenses, among others. With a maximum of $10,000 per project, AMORCE ensures that startups and SMEs have access to the funds necessary to explore new ideas and methodologies within a contained and practical financial framework.
Moreover, CRITM maintains a rigorous evaluation and selection process to ensure that funding is allocated to projects with the highest potential for success and industry impact. By doing so, the program not only accelerates innovation but also ensures that public resources are judiciously utilized to foster sustainable economic development and technological advancement.
The AMORCE program, therefore, represents an invaluable opportunity for Québec’s businesses in the metal transformation sector. By fostering collaboration, innovation, and sustainable growth, it allows participants to leverage extensive expertise while simultaneously contributing to the industry’s future in a meaningful way. Participating in AMORCE offers businesses the chance to not only advance their technological edge but also to secure a place within an ecosystem determined to make a mark at both the national and international levels.