The Artificial Intelligence innovation funding program (PIIA)
QC, Canada
The Programme d'Innovation en Intelligence Artificielle (PIIA) provides grants to Quebec companies for AI innovation projects.
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grant_single|eligibleFinancing
- grant_single|maxCount
- grant_single|projectCostPercent
grant_single|deadlines
- grant_single|timelineUnspecified
grant_single|financingType
Grant and Funding
grant_single|eligibleIndustries
- Manufacturing
- Information and cultural industries
- Professional, scientific and technical services
- Other services (except public administration)
grant_single|grantors
- PROMPT
- Ministère de l'économie, de l'innovation et de l'énergie du Québec (MEIE)
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grant_card_status|closed
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The Program d’innovation en Intelligence Artificielle (PIIA) is designed for all Quebec companies looking to undertake an innovation project for the development, commercialization, or adoption of AI technologies. The program offers financial support for projects that involve the development of new products, significant improvements to existing products, and projects that demonstrate technological and commercial potential in the AI sector. It aims to foster collaboration between companies and experts in the field, positioning Quebec as a leader in artificial intelligence. This component is aimed at SMEs with artificial intelligence projects for the production of goods and services, or for in-house research and development activities.
grant_single_labels|projects
This grant is available to companies with a presence in specific geographical areas within Quebec. Eligibility is focused on supporting regional innovation and collaboration in AI technologies.
- Businesses legally registered and operating within Quebec.
grant_single|admissibleProjectsExample
$350,000
AI-powered healthcare diagnostic tool for early disease detection
$350,000
AI-based predictive maintenance system for manufacturing equipment
$350,000
AI recommendation engine for personalized e-commerce experiences
$350,000
AI-based agricultural monitoring system for crop health
$300,000
AI-enhanced customer service chatbot for telecommunications company
grant_single_labels|admissibility
Eligibility for this grant is determined by specific requirements related to the applicant's profile and proposed activities.
- The company must be legally constituted according to federal or Quebec laws and registered with the Quebec Enterprise Registrar.
- The company must have its headquarters in Quebec and employ staff or subcontractors primarily in Quebec.
- The company must have 249 employees or fewer in Quebec.
- The company must have assets less than 50 million dollars.
- The project must focus on the development of a new product or process, or involve a significant improvement of an existing product or process.
- The project must offer a substantial level of innovation, meaning the product or process should present a decisive advantage over existing market solutions at a national or international level.
- The project must entail technological and/or business risk or uncertainty for the company.
- The project should have involved or will involve R&D efforts.
- If the product or process is intended for sale, the project must demonstrate commercial potential.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply
This grant is intended for Quebec-based companies engaged in AI innovation for the development, commercialization, or adoption of AI technologies.
- Quebec-based companies aiming at AI innovation projects.
- Collaborations involving at least two Quebec enterprises for large-scale projects.
- Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) engaged in AI-driven R&D or production activities independently or with research centers.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_cannot_apply
There are certain types of companies that are not eligible for this grant. The following companies are not eligible:
- Companies not legally incorporated under federal or Quebec law
- Companies not registered with the Registraire des entreprises du Québec
- Organizations not based in Quebec
- Companies with more than 249 employees in Quebec
grant_eligibility_criteria|eligible_expenses
The eligible projects for this grant focus on developing innovative products or processes in the field of artificial intelligence, enhancing existing technologies, and fostering collaborations for technological advancement and commercialization.
- Development of a new product or process in artificial intelligence.
- Significant improvement of an existing product or process in artificial intelligence.
- Collaboration projects involving research and development efforts.
- Projects that introduce a substantial technological or business advantage over existing market solutions.
grant_eligibility_criteria|zone
The grant covers expenses that are directly linked to the development and successful realization of AI projects.
- Personnel costs related to project execution.
- Costs of research and development activities.
- Purchase of equipment and technology necessary for the project.
- External expertise or consultation fees.
- Training and skill development linked to project requirements.
grant_single_labels|criteria
Selection criteria for the Program in Artificial Intelligence Innovation include the following:
- Relevance of the project to the development, marketing, or adoption of AI technologies.
- Demonstration of collaboration with other companies and leveraging expertise in AI.
- Potential contribution to positioning Quebec as a leader in artificial intelligence.
- Legal constitution and registration status of the applying company according to federal or Quebec laws.
- Innovation level and advantage over existing market solutions.
- Technical and/or business risk or uncertainty in the project.
- Evidence of research and development efforts.
- Commercial potential of the product or process.
grant_single_labels|register
Here are the steps to submit an application for this grant:
- Step 1: Initial Consultation
- Contact a program advisor to discuss your project and ensure it aligns with the program's objectives.
- Step 2: Prepare Project Proposal
- Compile a comprehensive project proposal detailing the innovation, objectives, and significance of the project.
- Include a budget breakdown of anticipated costs and funding requirements.
- Ensure the proposal outlines the innovation and potential commercial impact.
- Step 3: Submit Application
- Complete the application form provided by the funding organization.
- Attach all required documents, including your project proposal, financial statements, and any letters of collaboration.
- Submit the application via the designated submission portal before the deadline.
- Step 4: Confirmation and Follow-Up
- Receive a confirmation email acknowledging receipt of your application.
- Follow up with the program contact if you do not receive confirmation within a few days.
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Terms and conditions
- Maximum assistance equivalent to $350,000 per project;
- Maximum financial assistance is 30% of total eligible expenses for a project carried out by an SME alone, and 50% of total eligible expenses for a project carried out by an SME in collaboration with a research center;
- Cumulative government spending may total up to 50% of total eligible expenses for a project carried out by an SME alone, and 75% for projects carried out by an SME in collaboration with a research center.
- The maximum project duration is 2 years.
Please note :
- Management fees apply to the total value of the project;
- Unsubsidized expenses may be eligible for tax credits, including the Scientific Research and Experimental Development (SR&ED) tax credit, according to the current criteria of these programs.
Apply to this program
Unlock Innovation in Artificial Intelligence with Major Funding
Quebec-based companies have the opportunity to accelerate their innovation projects in artificial intelligence through dedicated funding programs that enhance development, commercialization, and the adoption of advanced AI technologies. These programs provide a structured financial framework to support transformative projects within the realm of AI, seeking to maintain Quebec's leadership in this rapidly evolving field.
Details of the Major Funding Programs for AI Innovation
The innovation funding programs in Quebec specifically target AI projects, enabling businesses to explore new avenues of technology and development. With distinct offerings such as the "Envergure" and "PME" categories, the programs are tailored to suit the diverse needs of both large business consortia and smaller enterprises.The "Envergure" facet focuses on collaborative consortia, requiring at least two Quebec-based companies to work together, leveraging shared expertise and resources. This aspect of the program encourages inter-company synergies, fostering a vibrant ecosystem of innovation. The financial backing under this program can reach up to 1.5 million dollars per project to cover half of the admissible expenses, making it a lucrative incentive for businesses willing to join forces and lead groundbreaking AI developments.The "PME" aspect caters to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which represent a significant portion of the economic landscape in Quebec. This program targets SMEs embarking on AI-driven projects, be it in product development or enhancing existing processes internally. Project financial support under this stream extends up to 350,000 dollars, providing substantial backing to realize ambitious goals while keeping the focus on local talent and resources.Both streams under the funding initiative share common objectives: advancing AI technology, promoting cooperative research, and establishing Quebec as a leader in the global AI sector. To this end, the funding not only addresses direct project costs but also supports the commercialization potential of developed products or processes.Programs emphasize innovation as a critical criterion, expecting projects to demonstrate distinct advantages over current market alternatives. Moreover, projects must show a notable level of commercial viability and promise game-changing advancements within their respective fields. This presents an opportunity for businesses to push the envelope in AI innovations while accessing funds that minimize development risks.Applicants are encouraged to begin preparations early, given that the renewal status and submission deadlines for funding may vary, underscoring the importance of strategic planning. With support that extends beyond financial assistance, beneficiaries often gain access to expert advice and networking opportunities with key players in the AI sector, thereby enriching the collaborative landscape of AI innovation.Businesses can further benefit from additional government incentives like research and development tax credits, effectively multiplying the financial impact of their projects. This synergy between various financial supports is designed to propel Quebec-based companies to the forefront of AI technology and research.In summary, these funding programs are not just financial lifelines but are quintessential to nurturing an ecosystem where innovation thrives, supporting entrepreneurial ventures that aim to redefine the future of artificial intelligence. By integrating collaborative research, scalable funding models, and strategic growth opportunities, Quebec is paving the way for technological advancements with wide-reaching socio-economic impacts.
