NGen — Cluster Accelerator Program
Canada
Strengthen Canada's advanced manufacturing ecosystem
grant_single_labels|summary
grant_single|eligibleFinancing
- grant_single|maxCount
- grant_single|projectCostPercent
grant_single|deadlines
- grant_single|openingDateSeptember 05, 2024
- grant_single|closingDateNovember 08, 2024
- grant_single|grantStatusClosed
grant_single|financingType
Grant and Funding
grant_single|eligibleIndustries
- Manufacturing
grant_single|grantors
- Next Generation Manufacturing Canada (NGEN)
grant_single|status
grant_card_status|closed
grant_single_labels|preview
The Cluster Accelerator Program aims to bolster Canada's advanced manufacturing ecosystem by funding projects that enhance collaboration among manufacturing clusters across the nation. Eligible activities include innovation projects to develop or adopt new manufacturing technologies, commercialization projects to support business development and export readiness, sustainability projects focused on environmental improvements and supply chain resilience, workforce and management enhancement projects to upskill and diversify the workforce, and network projects promoting collaboration between clusters. Not-for-profit industry-led organizations representing SMEs are eligible to apply, requiring an industry match of 150% of the funding amount.
grant_single_labels|projects
This grant is available to organizations incorporated in Canada. Eligible geographical areas are within Canada to support the advanced manufacturing clusters.
- Businesses incorporated and operating within Canada.
grant_single_labels|admissibility
Eligibility for this grant is determined by specific requirements related to the applicant's profile and proposed activities.
- The cluster organization must include a majority of small or medium sized manufacturing and/or technology companies with fewer than 500 employees.
- The cluster must include other supporting ecosystem partners like academia, research, services, and/or public organizations.
- The organization must be incorporated in Canada.
- Industry support of at least 150% of the amount of requested NGen funding must be contributed, either in cash or in-kind.
- Applicants must register their cluster organization and member companies as members of NGen Canada; NGen membership is offered at no cost.
- The organization must become an active member of the NGenCAN Cluster Accelerator Network, requiring participation in up to four meetings per year.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply
This grant is designed for existing and newly activated or reactivated advanced manufacturing clusters focusing on advancing manufacturing with significant SME involvement in Canada. Eligible organizations must meet specific criteria focused on cluster collaboration and advanced manufacturing scope.
- Existing advanced manufacturing clusters expanding their work scope with NGen funding support.
- Newly activated or reactivated clusters with a majority of SME members in advanced manufacturing.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_cannot_apply
This grant excludes certain types of activities to ensure alignment with the goal of enhancing Canada's advanced manufacturing ecosystem. The restrictions are designed to focus support on strategic sectors within this field.
- Activities related to public sector advocacy.
- Any cluster activities that are not tied to advanced manufacturing.
- Costs incurred by cluster members located outside Canada, unless pre-approved.
- Activities where benefits are intended for a single firm or that do not promote collaboration within a cluster.
grant_eligibility_criteria|eligible_expenses
The Cluster Accelerator Program offers funding for projects that foster collaboration and development within Canada's advanced manufacturing ecosystem. Eligible activities focus on innovation, commercialization, sustainability, workforce enhancement, and network building among industry clusters.
- Innovation Projects to promote the development and adoption of advanced manufacturing technologies.
- Commercialization Projects to support business development, export readiness, and participation in international missions.
- Sustainability Projects to improve environmental management and strengthen supply chain resilience.
- Workforce and Management Enhancement Projects to attract diverse talent and enhance skills in advanced manufacturing.
- Network Projects to support collaborative initiatives among multiple clusters.
grant_eligibility_criteria|zone
The grant covers specific expenses directly related to the implementation and success of the project.
- Portion of gross wages, salaries, or contracts, including mandatory employment-related costs and benefits, for project activities.
- Costs related to equipment, facilities, and supplies, including purchase, rental, operation, and maintenance.
- User fees associated with the project.
- Materials and supplies necessary for project execution.
- Capital expenditures linked to project objectives and vital for success.
- Room or facility rentals for project activities.
- Costs related to renting facilities for conferences and telecommunications.
- Travel costs, including meal and accommodation, adhering to the National Joint Council Travel Directive.
- Dissemination costs, such as publication expenses.
- Incremental cybersecurity costs directly related to project activities.
- Payments to federal entities complying with the TBS Guide.
- Honoraria supporting Indigenous participation in the project.
- Other direct costs specifically identified and measured as incurred in the performance of project activities, such as market studies.
grant_single_labels|criteria
The evaluation and selection of projects for this grant are based on specific criteria with allocated point scores to ensure alignment with the grant’s objectives.
- Clearly defined project opportunity, addressing a distinct business and/or technology challenge in advanced manufacturing.
- Projected economic and ecosystem benefits, with potential positive impacts on employment, exports, GDP, and workforce development.
- Long-term sustainability and growth plan for the project's outcomes post-funding.
- Strategic importance of NGen support in achieving the project's goals and enhancing collaboration and growth opportunities.
- Comprehensive project workplan, including clear milestones and risk mitigation strategies.
- Financial commitment and sources of matching funds, ensuring adequate resources for successful project delivery.
grant_single_labels|register
Here are the steps to submit an application for this grant:
- Step 1: Expression of Interest Registration
- Visit the NGen website to access the Expression of Interest form.
- Fill in the required information to register your interest in the Cluster Accelerator Program.
- Submit the form to receive further guidance on application preparation.
- Step 2: Attend Information Sessions
- Participate in the Cluster Information Session and Funding Workshops scheduled by NGen.
- Get acquainted with program requirements and clarify any queries you might have.
- Step 3: Member Registration
- Ensure all cluster and member SMEs are registered as NGen members before application.
- Use the Member Registration and Login Guide for assistance.
- Step 4: Prepare Application
- Download necessary templates and guidance documents from the NGen website.
- Prepare the project proposal answering the specified six questions relevant to your project type.
- Compile all supporting documentation, including financial plans and letters of support.
- Step 5: Submit Application
- Access the online application submission portal on the NGen website.
- Upload all required documents and ensure each section of the proposal is complete.
- Review the application for completeness and accuracy before submission.
- Submit the application by the specified deadline.
- Step 6: Confirmation and Feedback
- Receive a confirmation email upon successful submission.
- Wait for feedback from NGen, which is generally provided at the end of November.
Apply to this program
The NGen Cluster Accelerator Program: Driving Innovation and Collaboration
The NGen Cluster Accelerator Program is a strategic initiative aimed at advancing Canada's manufacturing capabilities through the support of collaborative cluster projects. This program funds cluster projects focusing on innovation, commercialization, sustainability, and workforce development within the advanced manufacturing ecosystem.
Detailed Insights into the NGen Cluster Accelerator Program
The NGen Cluster Accelerator Program is an essential pillar in strengthening Canada’s advanced manufacturing landscape. Designed to accelerate the development, adoption, and commercialization of advanced technologies, this program plays a pivotal role in enhancing the competitiveness and growth of manufacturing clusters across the nation. By funding projects that align with core objectives such as innovation, commercialization, sustainability, and workforce enhancement, the program empowers clusters to tackle shared challenges and seize emerging opportunities in the technology and manufacturing sectors.
This initiative is uniquely tailored to support both newly established and existing clusters that demonstrate a strong alliance among industry, academia, government, and other stakeholders. Through a collaborative framework, clusters can harness collective expertise and resources to innovate more effectively, driving both regional and national economic growth. By engaging in this initiative, participating clusters gain access to a rich ecosystem that fosters knowledge sharing, skill development, and strategic partnerships, positioning them as key contributors to Canada's manufacturing future.
Innovation projects can receive funding to promote the development and integration of cutting-edge manufacturing technologies, paving the way for companies to enhance operational efficiencies and competitiveness. Meanwhile, commercialization projects help members explore new market opportunities, fostering readiness for international expansion and boosting export potential. Sustainability projects focus on improving environmental practices, reducing carbon footprints, and ensuring resilient supply chains, thereby aligning with global sustainability goals.
The workforce enhancement projects emphasize the importance of upskilling and diversifying talent within the advanced manufacturing workforce. By attracting youth and underrepresented groups to the sector, and developing innovative training programs, these projects ensure a vibrant and inclusive future labor force, which is crucial for driving sustained industrial growth.
The financial structure of the NGen Cluster Accelerator Program is designed to maximize impact while ensuring responsible stewardship of resources, requiring participating clusters to match the funding with significant contributions. This match not only signifies commitment but also ensures that funds are utilized effectively to achieve meaningful outcomes. With a funding ceiling of $100,000 per annum per project and collaborative projects having additional potential, the program represents a significant opportunity for manufacturing clusters eager to innovate and lead in the global market arena.
Clusters seeking to apply must exhibit a strong value proposition, demonstrating how their projects contribute to the broader objectives of the initiative. Successfully securing funding requires a well-articulated plan that highlights strategic alignment with the program's priorities, feasible execution pathways, and a clear demonstration of expected benefits. Once funded, these clusters become part of NGen’s broader network, gaining visibility and potential influence as major players in Canada's innovation ecosystem.
As such, the NGen Cluster Accelerator Program not only offers funding support but also serves as a catalyst for transformative change, encouraging clusters to push boundaries, integrate sustainable practices, and amplify their global reach. By participating, clusters are not only enhancing their immediate impact but are also contributing significantly to driving Canada’s manufacturing prowess on the world stage.
