OCI — Technology Demonstration Program
ON, Canada
The DCC Technology Demonstration Program supports Ontario SMEs in adopting and implementing digital technologies, offering up to $150,000 in reimbursement funds.
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grant_single|eligibleFinancing
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- grant_single|projectCostPercent
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- grant_single|timelineUnspecified
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Grant and Funding
grant_single|eligibleIndustries
- Manufacturing
- Retail trade
- Information and cultural industries
- Professional, scientific and technical services
grant_single|grantors
- Ontario Centre of Innovation (OCI)
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grant_card_status|open
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The DCC Technology Demonstration Program aims to accelerate digital adoption among Ontario SMEs by providing up to $150,000 in reimbursement funds for the implementation of digital technologies identified in their Digital Modernization and Adoption Plan (DMAP). Eligible activities include the adoption of commercialized digital technology, costs related to installation and maintenance, and salaries for technical staff essential to the project's success. This initiative supports the commercialization of Ontario technologies while significantly enhancing the technological capacities of participating SMEs.
grant_single_labels|projects
This grant is available to Ontario-based SMEs, aligning with regional digital transformation and commercialization priorities stipulated by the funding body.
- Companies located in Ontario, Canada.
grant_single|admissibleProjectsExample
$150,000
Implementing a comprehensive cybersecurity solution for our digital infrastructure
$150,000
Creating a mobile app to manage customer loyalty and promotions
$150,000
Developing an AI-driven customer service chatbot to enhance user experience
$150,000
Implementing a cloud-based inventory management system to improve operational efficiency
$150,000
Upgrading an existing online store with new functionalities and design
grant_single_labels|admissibility
The eligibility criteria for the Digital Modernization and Adoption Plan (DMAP) and Technology Demonstration Program at the Digitalization Competence Centre (DCC) are specific to Ontario SMEs.
- The applicant must be an Ontario-based for-profit SME.
- The company should have between 1-499 employees.
- For the Technology Demonstration Program, the SME must have completed a DMAP project.
- For the Technology Demonstration Program, the company must have at least $500,000 of annual revenue in one of the last three tax years.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply
Ontario-based for-profit SMEs with between 1-499 employees are eligible to apply for the Digital Modernization and Adoption Plan (DMAP) and the Technology Demonstration Program. These programs support SMEs in understanding their digital needs, adopting and implementing digital technologies, and accelerating growth through digital transformation.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_cannot_apply
Yes, there are specific types of companies that are not eligible for this grant.
- Businesses engaged in consumer-facing retail or e-commerce operations
- Corporate chains, franchises, or registered charities
- Representatives of multi-level marketing companies
- Real estate brokerages
- Not-for-profits
grant_eligibility_criteria|eligible_expenses
The grant focuses on promoting digital modernization and adoption among Ontario SMEs, while facilitating technological advancements and commercialization of Ontario-made digital technologies. Eligible projects concentrate on understanding digital needs, implementing tailored digital plans, and adopting identified technologies for growth.
- Creation of a Digital Modernization and Adoption Plan (DMAP) tailored to specific SME needs.
- Adoption and implementation of digital technologies identified in the DMAP to accelerate SME growth.
- Commercialization of technologies developed in Ontario through digital transformation.
grant_eligibility_criteria|zone
The eligible geographic zone for this grant is Ontario. The SME applicant must have a permanent establishment in Ontario.
- Have a permanent establishment in Ontario
grant_single_labels|criteria
Yes, there are evaluation and selection criteria for this grant. Applications are internally reviewed for eligibility, completeness, and financial compliance, prior to evaluation by external reviewers with domain expertise from academia and industry.
- Evaluation of digital maturity and current capabilities.
- Clarity of the need for digital modernization.
- Capacity for and prioritization of investing in digital technology adoption.
- Significance of the opportunity, expected growth potential, and economic benefit to the SME and Ontario.
- Ability of the vendor’s digital solution to address the SME's digital gaps.
- Expertise and experience of team members, and evidence of collaboration.
- Vendor's potential role and impact on accelerating growth and path to market.
- Clarity, feasibility, and appropriateness of the project plan and budget.
- Overall quality and completeness of the application.
grant_single_labels|register
Here are the steps to submit an application for the Digital Modernization and Adoption Plan (DMAP) and Technology Demonstration Program:
- Step 1: Express Interest
- Fill out the Online Interest Form available on the DCC website to determine eligibility.
- Contact a Program Lead if you need guidance: Chris Ritchie, Vahid Sadr, Robert McMillan, or Rohit Sharma.
- Step 2: Review Program Guidelines
- Download and thoroughly review the Program Guidelines and Eligible Expenses Guidelines from the DCC website.
- Step 3: Prepare Required Templates
- Complete the Proposal Template, ensuring it aligns with the program's objectives and your organization's digital needs.
- Secure any necessary Letters of Support using the provided template.
- Prepare the Reimbursement Template for expense tracking.
- Step 4: Work with a Digital Adoption Consultant
- Collaborate with a Digital Adoption Consultant to develop a comprehensive Digital Modernization and Adoption Plan (DMAP).
- Step 5: Submit Application
- Ensure all documents are accurately completed and compiled according to the guidelines.
- Submit your application through the instructed process—details on submission could be provided by your program contact.
- Step 6: Application Acknowledgment
- Receive acknowledgment of your application submission. Retain this for your records.
grant_single_labels|otherInfo
The DCC Technology Demonstration Program supports Ontario SMEs that have completed a DMAP project to adopt and implement digital technology, providing up to $150,000 in reimbursement funds.
- Funding is available for a limited number of Ontario SMEs working with digital solution vendors.
- Applicants must have between 1-499 full-time equivalent employees, completed a DMAP project, and have at least $500,000 of annual revenues in one of the last three tax years.
- The technology vendor must have a validated commercialized innovative product/service ready for demonstration and maintain an arm's-length business relationship with the applicant.
- Projects eligible for funding must support the adoption of commercialized digital technology and must significantly accelerate the SME's digital transformation.
- The program follows a reimbursement funding model where the SME is responsible for paying the vendor upfront.
- Applicants must complete all required reports and retain proof of purchases and other relevant documentation to receive funding.
- Approved projects must submit a final report within 30 days of project completion to receive reimbursement for eligible expenses.
- Applications are assessed by internal and external reviewers, with final funding decisions made by OCI.
Apply to this program
Unlocking Digital Transformation for Ontario SMEs
The Digitalization Competence Centre (DCC) is a strategic initiative driven by the Ontario Government to empower SMEs through digital modernization. Through its comprehensive programs, DCC aids in equipping businesses with the knowledge and tools needed to thrive in the evolving digital landscape.
Detailed Overview of the DCC Grant and Its Strategic Importance
The Digitalization Competence Centre is a pivotal resource for Ontario-based small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), facilitating their journey toward becoming digitally empowered entities. This initiative is an integral part of Ontario's broader strategy to bolster its economic ecosystem by ensuring that forward-thinking companies are equipped with cutting-edge digital competencies. By emphasizing the importance of digital transformation, the DCC aims to catalyze the growth and operational efficiency of SMEs, which form the backbone of the province’s economy.
At the core of DCC's offerings are two primary programs: the Digital Modernization and Adoption Plan (DMAP) and the Technology Demonstration Program. These initiatives are meticulously designed to demystify digital technologies for businesses and help them leverage technology effectively to meet their organizational objectives.
The DMAP program serves as a foundational step for SMEs to analyze and understand their current technological setup. By collaborating with Digital Adoption Consultants, businesses can develop a bespoke digital strategy that caters to their unique operational challenges and growth aspirations. This program not only enlightens SMEs about the potential of digital tools but also assists in creating a strategic roadmap, which guides their transformation journey and ensures they remain competitive in a tech-driven market.
Once an SME completes its DMAP project, it can transition to the Technology Demonstration Program. This next phase is where theory meets practice, facilitating the actual adoption and implementation of the previously identified digital solutions. By providing the necessary support, the program accelerates the commercialization and deployment of Made-in-Ontario digital technologies, thereby fostering a cycle of innovation within the local economy.
Competent digital adoption can significantly enhance an SME's ability to innovate, optimize operations, and scale rapidly. The integration of digital technologies into everyday business practices leads to improved efficiency, cost reduction, and enhanced customer experience. Moreover, by aligning with Ontario's digital vision, businesses can unlock opportunities that were previously inaccessible due to technological limitations. This transformation is not merely about survival in a competitive world but about thriving, with an eye on sustainable growth and long-term success.
The DCC does not operate in isolation; it forms the interface between businesses seeking to digitalize and the region's burgeoning technology firms. This synergy not only benefits the participating enterprises but also invigorates the broader technological ecosystem in Ontario. The cross-pollination of ideas and resources facilitated by DCC ensures that Ontario's SMEs remain at the forefront of digital trends, contributing to a robust and diversified provincial economy.
By providing a structured pathway and tangible resources, DCC empowers SMEs to break down the barriers to digital adoption. This initiative highlights the importance of strategic planning and thoughtful execution in digital transformation projects. In doing so, it aligns with both provincial and national economic objectives, reinforcing Ontario's status as a leader in innovation and digital integration.
In conclusion, the Digitalization Competence Centre represents more than just a funding opportunity; it is a transformative tool for SMEs striving to navigate the complexities of the digital age. By encouraging digital adoption and offering robust support systems, the DCC is pivotal in shaping a future where Ontario’s SMEs not only survive but prosper in an increasingly digital world.
