How much funding can be received?

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|terms_and_conditions

The NGen — Cluster Accelerator Program provides structured financing modalities aimed at fostering robust collaboration and innovation within Canada's advanced manufacturing clusters. Funding is intricately linked to project milestones and matching contributions from industry.

Individual cluster organizations can receive up to $100,000 per year, with the stipulation of 150% matching contribution from industry sources, either in cash or in-kind contributions.
Clusters participating in joint collaborative projects may apply for up to $75,000 per cluster involved in the project.
Start-up Cluster projects receive funding in two stages: first, up to $20,000 for initial setup activities, followed by up to $80,000 pending documentation verifying completion of initial milestones.
Funding must be matched by industry contributions, with a minimum match of 150% of the NGen funding awarded.
An additional 15% of the funding is held until project completion and the final acceptance of reports detailing deliverables and financial reconciliation.
Project costs incurred outside of Canada require pre-approval, ensuring alignment with program objectives.
Total funding from non-industry sources may not exceed 75% of project costs without authorized consent from NGen.
Clusters are restricted to one open project at a time and must finalize the initial project before application for subsequent funding.
NGen funding is targeted at covering eligible project-related expenses, adhering to Canada’s Joint Travel Directive for travel costs.

grant_single_labels|projects

Eligible projects for this grant focus on enhancing Canada's advanced manufacturing sector through innovation, commercialization, sustainability, workforce development, and collaborative networks. These initiatives aim to accelerate the adoption of advanced technologies and strengthen the manufacturing ecosystem.

Innovation Projects to develop and adopt advanced manufacturing technologies.
Commercialization Projects to enhance supplier and business development, and improve export readiness.
Sustainability Projects aimed at improving environmental strategies and supply chain resilience.
Workforce and Management Enhancement Projects for skills improvement and diversity inclusion in advanced manufacturing careers.
Network Projects to encourage collaboration among multiple clusters towards shared objectives.

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

This grant is available exclusively to clusters and organizations incorporated within Canada, aligning with the emphasis on supporting the Canadian advanced manufacturing ecosystem. Eligible geographical locations are implicitly within the Canadian territories.

Canada (nationwide).

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.

grant_single_labels|otherInfo

Here are additional relevant details for this grant:

NGen funding requires an industry match of 150% of cash and/or in-kind contribution per application.
Clusters cannot have two open projects at the same time; one must be closed before a new application is submitted.
Successful applicants need to promote NGen initiatives, participate in training programs, and acknowledge NGen as a partner, including publishing NGen's logo on their website.
All funding agreements require the cluster to become active members of the NGenCAN Cluster Accelerator Network.