
REGI — Regional Innovation Ecosystems
Last Update: January 24, 2025
ON, Canada
Funding for organizations supporting business growth in Northern Ontario
REGI — Regional Innovation Ecosystems at a glance
Eligible Funding
- No Condition
Timeline
- Continuous Intakes
Financing Type
Other Support
Expert Advice
Eligible Industries
- All industries
Grant Providers
- Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario (FedNor)
- Government of Canada
Status
Open
Overview of the REGI — Regional Innovation Ecosystems program
Your organization could get a financial contribution to assist businesses at all stages of development in scaling up and becoming more globally competitive. Investments will focus on enhancing business support networks for under-represented groups — inclu
Financing terms and conditions
This grant provides flexible financing modalities to support innovation ecosystems in Northern Ontario, promoting regional economic development. The modalities are designed to address diverse project needs and objectives.
- Contribution agreements that specify maximum funding amounts based on project scope and objectives.
- Reimbursement-based funding where expenses are reimbursed after submission and approval of claims.
- Possibility of leveraging other funding sources in conjunction with the grant to maximize project impact.
- Monitoring and reporting requirements to ensure compliance and project progress.
- Focus on supporting projects that align with regional innovation and economic diversification goals.
Eligible projects & activities
This grant is designed to support the growth and enhancement of regional innovation ecosystems. It focuses on initiatives that foster collaboration and boost economic development in Northern Ontario communities.
- Projects that enhance collaborative research and development efforts among academic, industry, and public sectors.
- Initiatives that build or expand innovation infrastructure such as incubators and accelerators.
- Programs that provide mentorship, training, and support to startups and scale-ups.
- Activities that promote the commercialization of new technologies and innovation.
- Efforts that strengthen regional networks and partnerships to increase competitiveness.
Examples of admissible projects:
$ 80,000
Create an online platform to enhance community economic development
$ 100,000
Develop a new AI-driven software to address inequities in healthcare access
$ 200,000
Develop a renewable energy startup to provide sustainable energy solutions
$ 150,000
Launch a sustainable farming cooperative to promote food security
Eligibility criteria of the REGI — Regional Innovation Ecosystems program
- Applicants must be businesses located in Northern Ontario
- Projects must demonstrate positive economic impacts on the region
- Applicants must meet the specific criteria outlined in the grant application guidelines
Who is eligible?
The Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario (FedNor) grant applications are open to various organizations, including businesses, municipalities, Indigenous communities, and non-profit organizations that propose projects which can stimulate economic growth and development in Northern Ontario. Potential eligibility often extends to projects that demonstrate benefits in employment, innovation, productivity, inclusivity, and regional competitiveness, although specific applicant criteria may vary based on the funding initiative.
Who is not eligible
There are certain types of companies that are not eligible for this grant. These include:
- Companies outside the specified geographic region
- Companies operating in sectors not covered by the grant program
- Companies that do not meet specific eligibility criteria outlined in the grant guidelines
Eligible expenses
The FedNor grant supports a broad range of projects aimed at enhancing economic development in Northern Ontario. These initiatives emphasize community development, business growth, and infrastructure improvement.
- Community economic development to enhance local economies.
- Support for small and medium-sized businesses to stimulate growth and innovation.
- Infrastructure projects to improve connectivity and accessibility.
- Initiatives promoting innovation and technology adoption.
- Projects aimed at enhancing tourism in Northern Ontario.
Eligible geographic areas
The grant is aimed at supporting companies within the specified regions of Northern Ontario. The funding is directed towards regional development through innovation and support of local businesses.
- Companies operating within Northern Ontario.
Eligibility criteria of the REGI — Regional Innovation Ecosystems program
There are evaluation and selection criteria for this grant. Applicants are assessed based on factors such as project alignment with FedNor priorities, economic benefits to Northern Ontario, capacity to implement the project, and financial viability.
- Project alignment with FedNor priorities
- Economic benefits to Northern Ontario
- Capacity to implement the project
- Financial viability
How to apply to the REGI — Regional Innovation Ecosystems program
1
Determine Program Eligibility
- Review the eligibility criteria detailed on the FedNor website to ensure your project qualifies.
- Evaluate the funding priorities and objectives of FedNor to align your project.
2
Register on FedNor Portal
- Create an account on FedNor's online application portal if you don't already have one.
- Log in to access the application forms and guidelines.
3
Develop Project Proposal
- Draft a comprehensive project proposal including a clear description, objectives, and potential economic impact.
- Prepare a detailed budget and timeline for the project execution.
4
Compile Supporting Documentation
- Gather all necessary documents such as financial statements, letters of support, and business plans.
- Ensure all documents meet the criteria set by FedNor.
5
Complete the Application Form
- Fill out the application form available on the FedNor portal with accurate information.
- Attach the project proposal and supporting documentation as instructed.
6
Review and Submit Application
- Review all information and documents to ensure completeness and accuracy.
- Submit the application via the online portal before the specified deadline.
7
Confirmation of Submission
- Receive an automated confirmation email acknowledging receipt of your application.
- Keep a record of your application submission and confirmation details for follow-up.
Additional information
Here are additional relevant details for this grant:
- The application requires the selection of a preferred language, either English or French.
- Terms and conditions are available which outline the obligations of recipients and should be carefully reviewed.
- The symbol of the Government of Canada is included in the application process, indicating federal oversight.
Apply to this program

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