R
Closed
Rapid Response Challenge
Supports rapid manufacturing solutions for COVID-19 response
Last Update: April 27, 2026
Funding available
Varies by project
Timeline
- Receipt of requests is now closed
Location
Ontario
Overview
NGen invested more than $21 million to help develop and scale innovative manufacturing solutions for COVID-19 response in Canada. Supported activities included ventilators, ventilator components, face shields, rapid test kits, and antiviral coating products.
/100
Opportunity Score
Moderate potential, but conditions must align.
At a glance
Funding available
Financing goals
- Develop strategic partnerships
- Increase production or service capacity
- Develop a new product or service
Eligible Funding
- Varies by project
Timeline
- Receipt of requests is now closed
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- Manufacturing
- Health care and social assistance
Location
- Ontario
Legal structures
- All legal structures
Annual revenue
- All revenue ranges
Organisation size
- All organization sizes
Audience
- Startups
Next Steps
1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility
Activities funded
- Development and manufacturing of ventilators and related components.
- Production of face shields and other protective equipment.
- Development and manufacturing of rapid COVID-19 test kits.
- Development of antiviral self-sterilization coating products.
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
- Advanced manufacturing companies in Canada.
Eligible geographic areas
- Canada
Processing and Agreement
- Projects were prioritized for funding based on immediate benefit to Canadians.
- NGen reviewed expressions of interest from companies across Canada.
- Approved projects were announced publicly after selection.
Contacts
Frequently Asked Questions about the Rapid Response Challenge Program
Here are answers to the most common questions about the Rapid Response Challenge. This section explains what the program is, how much funding is available, eligibility requirements, application deadlines, and other important details to help you determine if this grant is right for your business.
What is the Rapid Response Challenge?
NGen invested more than $21 million to help develop and scale innovative manufacturing solutions for COVID-19 response in Canada. Supported activities included ventilators, ventilator components, face shields, rapid test kits, and antiviral coating products.
Who is eligible for the Rapid Response Challenge program?
To be eligible for the Rapid Response Challenge program, you must:
Advanced manufacturing project
COVID-19 response focus
Scale-up or commercialization
What expenses are eligible under Rapid Response Challenge?
Development and manufacturing of ventilators and related components.
Production of face shields and other protective equipment.
Development and manufacturing of rapid COVID-19 test kits.
Development of antiviral self-sterilization coating products.
Who can I contact for more information about the Rapid Response Challenge?
You can contact Municipality of West Elgin by email at robbie.macleod@ngen.ca or by phone at 613-297-3578.
Where is the Rapid Response Challenge available?
The Rapid Response Challenge program is available the province of Ontario.
Is the Rapid Response Challenge a grant, loan, or tax credit?
Rapid Response Challenge is a Partnering and Collaboration
Who are the financial supporters of the Rapid Response Challenge?
Rapid Response Challenge is funded by Municipality of West Elgin