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NRC IRAP – Defence Industry Assist (DI Assist) - Canada
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Source verified September 16, 2026

NRC IRAP – Defence Industry Assist (DI Assist)

Support for innovative defence technology SMEs
Offered by
National Research Council Canada (NRC)
Official source: nrc.canada.ca
Latest source update
Last Update: September 16, 2026
Latest change: NRC IRAP’s DI Assist page now sets out new applicant requirements, project conditions, and a $241 million investment tied to the initiative launch.
View change
DI Assist eligibility and scope updated
The DI Assist source now says the Government of Canada announced a $241 million investment in January 2026 to launch the initiative. It also adds that SMEs must meet NRC IRAP minimum requirements, demonstrate innovation, growth and scalability potential, and show a clear commercialization path while addressing Canadian Armed Forces capability needs and aligning with the Defence Industrial Strategy. The page now describes support for defence-market exploration, early-stage R&D, and technology refinement, testing, or validation, which broadens and clarifies the program’s project scope.
Funding available
Varies by project
Deadline
Open continuously
Location
Canada
Who can apply

Canadian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)

See full eligibility

Overview

NRC IRAP DI Assist supports innovative Canadian SMEs developing defence and dual-use technologies. It provides advice and funding for research and development tied to the capability needs of the Canadian Armed Forces, including innovative products and technologies made in Canada.
/100
Opportunity Score
Moderate potential, but conditions must align.

At a glance

Funding available

Financing goals
  • Increase production or service capacity
  • Develop a new product or service
  • Increase operational productivity
Eligible Funding
  • Varies by project
Funds Providers

Eligible candidates

Eligible Industries
  • All industries
Location
  • Canada
Legal structures
  • For-profit business
Annual revenue
  • All revenue ranges
Organisation size
  • All organization sizes
Audience
  • All groups

Next Steps

1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility

Availability timeline

2026
Periods: 1

Activities funded

  • Understand the defence market and procurement processes
  • Explore early-stage R&D ideas
  • Refine, test or validate technologies that are closer to completion
  • Research and development of innovative, technology-driven products and services
  • Other innovation activities

Official resources

Official page

NRC IRAP support for SMEs developing defence and dual-use technologies

Program guide

Financial support for technology innovation

Eligibility

Who is eligible?

  • Canadian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)
  • Incorporated, for-profit businesses operating in Canada
  • Employ up to 500 people (full-time equivalent)
  • Develop and commercialize innovative, technology-driven products or services
  • Be ready to create economic benefits in Canada, such as new jobs or increased innovation capacity

Selection criteria

  • The technical aspects of your innovation
  • Your business, management and financial capacity
  • The likelihood of achieving results
  • Your commercialization plans
  • The market potential of your project and benefits to Canada

How to apply

  • If you meet the minimum requirements, a senior executive from your business can call 1-877-994-4727.
  • The bilingual contact centre will gather details and determine if you are ready to meet with a client engagement advisor (CEA).

Contacts

1-877-994-4727

Other components of this program

Explore related funding streams and grants that belong to the same program.

Frequently Asked Questions about the NRC IRAP – Defence Industry Assist (DI Assist) Program

What is the NRC IRAP – Defence Industry Assist (DI Assist)?

NRC IRAP DI Assist supports innovative Canadian SMEs developing defence and dual-use technologies. It provides advice and funding for research and development tied to the capability needs of the Canadian Armed Forces, including innovative products and technologies made in Canada.

What is the deadline to apply?

The program is accepting continuous intake

What expenses are eligible under NRC IRAP – Defence Industry Assist (DI Assist)?

Understand the defence market and procurement processes Explore early-stage R&D ideas Refine, test or validate technologies that are closer to completion Research and development of innovative, technology-driven products and services Other innovation activities

Who can I contact for more information about the NRC IRAP – Defence Industry Assist (DI Assist)?

You can contact National Research Council Canada (NRC) or by phone at 1-877-994-4727.

Where is the NRC IRAP – Defence Industry Assist (DI Assist) available?

The NRC IRAP – Defence Industry Assist (DI Assist) program is available across Canada.

Is the NRC IRAP – Defence Industry Assist (DI Assist) a grant, loan, or tax credit?

NRC IRAP – Defence Industry Assist (DI Assist) is a Grant and Funding

Who are the financial supporters of the NRC IRAP – Defence Industry Assist (DI Assist)?

NRC IRAP – Defence Industry Assist (DI Assist) is funded by National Research Council Canada (NRC)