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|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
The grant supports projects that aim to bolster Canada's advanced manufacturing ecosystem through collaboration among clusters. Eligible activities focus on innovation, commercialization, sustainability, workforce development, and network projects.
- Innovation Projects: Promote development and adoption of advanced manufacturing technologies.
- Commercialization Projects: Explore strategic opportunities for business development, commercialization, and export readiness.
- Sustainability Projects: Enhance environmental management, reduce GHG emissions, and strengthen supply chain resilience.
- Workforce and Management Enhancement Projects: Support upskilling, diversity, and talent attraction in advanced manufacturing.
- Network Projects: Support collaboration among multiple clusters for shared objectives.
grant_single_labels|admissibility
To be eligible for the NGen Cluster Accelerator funding, applicants must be Canadian-incorporated cluster organizations primarily composed of SMEs and include supporting ecosystem partners. Additionally, they must contribute industry support of at least 150% of the requested NGen funding amount and ensure project activities are within the scope of advanced manufacturing.
- Include a majority of small or medium-sized manufacturing and/or technology companies with fewer than 500 employees.
- Include other supporting ecosystem partners like academia, research, services, and/or public organizations.
- Be incorporated in Canada.
- Contribute industry support (cash or in-kind) of at least 150% of the amount of requested NGen funding.
- Project activities must be aligned with advanced manufacturing.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply
The Cluster Accelerator Program is intended for new or existing not-for-profit, industry-led organizations or clusters that represent small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the advanced manufacturing sector. Eligible applicants must be incorporated in Canada, involve a majority of manufacturing and/or technology SMEs with fewer than 500 employees, and include other supporting partners like academia, research, services, and public organizations.
- Not-for-profit, industry-led organizations or clusters
- Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) with fewer than 500 employees
- Organizations must be incorporated in Canada
- Clusters should include supporting partners from academia, research, services, and public sectors
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_cannot_apply
Companies not eligible for this grant are those that do not meet the requirements of being an advanced manufacturing cluster or do not comply with the specified eligibility criteria. Certain expenses and types of projects are also ineligible for funding according to the guidelines.
- Companies that are not part of an advanced manufacturing cluster.
- Public sector advocacy activities.
- Companies incurring costs outside Canada without prior approval from NGen.
- Cluster activities unrelated to advanced manufacturing.
- Companies failing to meet the requirement of having a majority of small or medium sized manufacturing or technology companies with fewer than 500 employees.
- Companies not incorporated in Canada.
grant_eligibility_criteria|eligible_expenses
Eligible expenses for this grant include program delivery costs that directly support the purpose of connecting and collaborating within Canada's advanced manufacturing ecosystem. These costs encompass wages, materials, travel, and other relevant expenses.
- Gross wages, salaries, or contracts related to project activities
- Costs related to equipment, facilities, and supplies
- User fees
- Materials and supplies
- Capital expenditures
- Room or facility rentals for the project
- Travel costs including meals and accommodation in line with directives
- Dissemination costs including publication costs
- Incremental costs related to cybersecurity
- Payments to federal entities
- Honoraria to support Indigenous participation in projects
- Other direct costs related to specific project activities
- Capital expenditures vital for success in related projects
- Foreign costs on an exceptional basis with prior approval
grant_eligibility_criteria|zone
The eligible geographic zone for the Cluster Accelerator Program grant is Canada. All cluster organizations applying must be incorporated in Canada.
- Projects must include cluster members and activities located within Canada.
- Eligible organizations should include a majority of Canadian small or medium-sized manufacturing and/or technology companies with fewer than 500 employees.
- Activities and expenses related to the funded project should be incurred in Canada, except in specific pre-approved cases.
grant_single_labels|criteria
Yes, there are evaluation and selection criteria for this grant. Proposals will be reviewed based on their ability to address economic opportunities and challenges, the benefits projected for cluster members and the Canadian advanced manufacturing sector, and the sustainability and impact of the project.
- Cluster scope, expertise, and mission.
- Market size and strategic importance.
- Number and role of cluster members, including SMEs and ecosystem partners.
- Workplan, milestones, and risk assessment.
- Sustainability and long-term business plan.
- Financial commitments and source of matching funds.
- Economic and ecosystem benefits for cluster members and the broader sector.
- Potential impact on Canadian employment, exports, and GDP.
- Support for Net Zero Carbon transition and supply chain resilience.
- Role of NGen funding in achieving project outcomes.
grant_single_labels|register
- Step 1: Expression of Interest opens. Prepare the initial documentation and submit the expression of interest starting from September 5, 2024.
- Step 2: Attend the Cluster Information Session. Gain additional insights and clarification by attending the session on September 18, 2024, at 3 PM EST.
- Step 3: Attend the Cluster Accelerator Funding Workshop. Participate in the workshop on October 1, 2024, (English) or October 3, 2024, (French) at 3 PM EST to understand the application process and requirements thoroughly.
- Step 4: Complete the Funding Intake and Screening Form. The in-take and screening period opens on October 1, 2024, and closes on October 25, 2024, at 5 PM EST. Ensure all forms are filled accurately during this period.
- Step 5: Submit the Application. Finalize and submit the detailed funding application by the deadline of November 8, 2024.
- Step 6: Receive Application Feedback. Await feedback on your submission, expected by November 30, 2024.
Apply to this program
Cluster Accelerator Program Grant Overview
The Cluster Accelerator Program, spearheaded by Next Generation Manufacturing Canada (NGen), is dedicated to fostering collaboration and innovation within Canada's advanced manufacturing ecosystem. It offers funding to not-for-profit industry-led clusters to support projects in innovation, commercialization, sustainability, and workforce and management enhancement.
Understanding the Cluster Accelerator Program: Grant Opportunities for Advanced Manufacturing in Canada
The Cluster Accelerator Program is an innovative initiative designed to support and enhance Canada's advanced manufacturing landscape. Spearheaded by Next Generation Manufacturing Canada (NGen), this program aims to build robust clusters that drive digital transformation across the country's manufacturing sectors. The program brings together resources from academia, government agencies, industry, and research organizations to create a synergistic environment that fosters innovation, competitiveness, and economic growth. **Program Objectives and Benefits** The Cluster Accelerator Program is built on the foundation of collaboration and growth. It seeks to: 1. Strengthen the collaborative efforts of advanced manufacturing clusters. 2. Enhance technological innovation and adoption. 3. Promote commercialization and export readiness. 4. Support sustainability projects that align with environmental management goals. 5. Enhance workforce skills, diversity, and inclusion within the sector. By participating in the Cluster Accelerator Program, manufacturing clusters can access funding designed to help them make significant contributions to the sector while also addressing key challenges such as emissions reduction, supply chain resilience, and workforce development. **Types of Projects Funded** The program provides funding for various project types, including but not limited to: - **Innovation Projects**: These projects focus on developing or adopting advanced manufacturing technologies. They aim to improve the competitiveness and growth of cluster members. - **Commercialization Projects**: These projects help scope strategic opportunities for supplier development, facilitate participation in international markets, and support the commercialization of products and services by cluster members. - **Sustainability Projects**: Through these initiatives, clusters focus on improving environmental practices, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and strengthening domestic supply chains. - **Workforce and Management Enhancement Projects**: These projects are essential for attracting young and diverse talents to the advanced manufacturing sector, developing skills, and enhancing the operational capabilities of cluster members. - **Network Projects**: This category supports collaboration among multiple clusters to achieve innovation, commercial growth, and sustainable development objectives. **Eligibility and Requirements** To qualify for the Cluster Accelerator Program, applicants must meet specific requirements: - Applicants must be not-for-profit, industry-led organizations representing clusters primarily composed of SMEs (small and medium-sized enterprises) with fewer than 500 employees. - The clusters must include a diverse group of stakeholders, such as academia, research organizations, government bodies, and industry players. - Applicants need to demonstrate how their projects contribute to the advancement of Canada's manufacturing capabilities. - A commitment of industry support, in terms of cash or in-kind contribution of at least 150% of the requested funding, is mandatory. **Application Process and Timelines** The program follows a structured application process to ensure fairness and effectiveness. Key dates to remember include: - Expressions of interest open on September 5, 2024. - Cluster Information Sessions are scheduled for September 18, 2024. - The application process concludes on November 8, 2024, with feedback expected by November 30, 2024. Applicants are required to submit a detailed proposal that answers six structured questions, demonstrating the project’s potential impact, economic benefits, work plan, and funding strategy. Each proposal is evaluated by a panel of independent assessors, ensuring transparency and merit-based approvals. **Funding Details** Clusters can apply for up to $100,000 per year, which must be matched by industry contributions. If multiple clusters collaborate on a project, they can receive up to $75,000 each. The funding is allocated to cover eligible project expenses, including personnel costs, equipment, supplies, and travel expenses in line with the Government of Canada's Joint Travel Directive. Successful applicants are expected to meet reporting requirements, showcasing how the funding has been utilized and the outcomes achieved. This process ensures accountability and measures the effectiveness of funded projects in achieving their objectives. **Conclusion** The Cluster Accelerator Program represents a significant opportunity for Canadian manufacturing clusters to advance their capabilities and collaborate on innovative projects that drive economic growth and competitiveness. By leveraging this funding, clusters can enhance their technological prowess, streamline operations, and contribute to Canada’s broader strategy for a sustainable and inclusive business ecosystem. Through collaboration and innovation, this program aims to position Canada as a leader in advanced manufacturing, attracting international attention and investment while fostering a dynamic domestic industry.
