
Volta IA
Last Update: July 22, 2025
NS, Canada
Helping artificial intelligence supply chain companies scale
At a glance
Eligible Funding
- Max. $14,000
Timeline
- Closing date : March 1, 2023
Financing Type
Grant and Funding
Eligible Industries
- Professional, scientific and technical services
Funds Providers
Unspecified
Program status
Closed
Overview
The Volta AI program offers up to $14,000 in funding to support Canadian companies focused on applied AI and intelligent supply chain products or services. The program aims to accelerate the early growth of AI ventures by providing resources, expert support, and access to investors.
Activities funded
Examples of admissible projects:
$ 70,000
Launch a sustainable packaging initiative for a local food cooperative in Victoria, British Columbia.
$ 25,000
Create a digital marketing campaign for a local art gallery in Winnipeg, Manitoba.
$ 40,000
Develop a mental health support program for remote workers in Ottawa, Ontario.
$ 60,000
Upgrade the technology infrastructure of a small law firm in Montreal, Quebec.
$ 120,000
Renovate the community center to improve accessibility and safety in Halifax, Nova Scotia.
Eligibility
Eligible companies for the Volta AI program must meet the following criteria:
- Incorporated, based, and operating in Canada.
- Focused on applied AI and intelligent supply chain products and/or services.
- A venture that demonstrates evidence of customer interest and traction.
- Accepted by the Scale AI validation Committee.
- The company must also meet at least one of the following requirements: less than two years old, employing fewer than 500 globally (including affiliates), or having an average annualized revenue growth rate of greater than 20 per cent over the past three years.
Who is eligible?
Eligible applicants for the Volta AI program include companies that are incorporated, based, and operating in Canada, focused on applied AI and intelligent supply chain products and/or services. Companies must demonstrate evidence of customer interest and traction and be accepted by the Scale AI validation Committee. Additionally, applicants need to meet at least one of the following:- Less than two years old- Employing fewer than 500 people globally, including affiliates- Having an average annualized revenue growth rate of greater than 20% over the past three years.
Eligible expenses
The Volta AI program is designed to accelerate the growth of AI ventures within the supply chain sector by providing essential funding, expert mentorship, and valuable resources. The activities eligible under this program aim to scale businesses by enhancing operational capabilities and expanding market reach.
- Access to funding up to $14,000 to support growth initiatives.
- Mentorship and guidance from AI industry experts.
- Networking opportunities with potential investors.
- Participation in orientation sessions and workshops to maximize program benefits.
- Engagement with the Scale AI Global Innovation Supercluster resources.
Selection criteria
Projects under the Volta AI program are evaluated based on their alignment with the program goals, demonstration of traction, and the potential impact on the intelligent supply chain sector.
- Innovation and Technology Advancement - 30 points: The project must demonstrate originality and the potential to advance technological frontiers within the AI and supply chain sectors.
- Market Traction - 25 points: Evidence of customer interest, existing partnerships, or beta testers that underscore the demand and market feasibility for the product or service.
- Scalability and Growth Potential - 20 points: Projects should have a clear strategy for scaling operations, including market expansion and increase in customer base.
- Team and Leadership - 15 points: The capabilities and experience of the team members should indicate a strong potential to execute the project.
- Social Impact and Ecosystem Contributions - 10 points: Projects are assessed on their ability to contribute to the broader ecosystem and their societal impact, including diversity and inclusion initiatives.
How to apply
1
Learn More
- Email the Senior Coordinator, Programming + Startup Services, Dan, with any questions about the program.
- Receive a response within two business days.
2
Submit Pre-screening Form
- Complete the pre-screening form to express your interest in the program.
- Wait for an invitation to apply if your company meets the eligibility criteria.
3
Submit Full Application
After qualifying through the pre-screening, complete the full application form for the program.
4
Attend Orientation Session
- If selected, attend the orientation session organized by Volta.
- Work with Volta to utilize your allotment by March 1, 2023.
Contacts
services@voltaeffect.com
902-702-0194
Frequently Asked Questions about the Volta IA Program
Here are answers to the most common questions about the Volta IA. 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 Volta IA?
How much funding can be received?
What is the deadline to apply?
Is the Volta IA a grant, loan, or tax credit?
Who are the financial supporters of the Volta IA?
Who is eligible for the Volta IA program?
Who can I contact for more information about the Volta IA?
Where is the Volta IA available?

Wage Subsidies And InternsOpen
START Program
Government of Nova ScotiaFinancial incentives for Nova Scotia employers with a labour need
Nova Scotia, Canada

Tax CreditsClosed
Nova Scotia Research and Development Tax Credit
Government of Nova ScotiaTax credit for R&D in Nova Scotia
Nova Scotia, Canada

Other SupportExpert AdviceOpen
Launch Export Atlantic Incubator
Government of Nova ScotiaSupport from subject matter experts for export capacity
Nova Scotia, Canada

Grant and FundingClosed
Youth Climate Action Fund
Halifax Climate Investment, Innovation and Impact Fund (HCi3)Empowering youth to innovate for climate change solutions
Halifax, Nova Scotia

Tax CreditsOpen
Nova Scotia innovation equity tax credit
Government of Nova ScotiaTax incentive encouraging investment in innovative Nova Scotia businesses
Nova Scotia, Canada

Tax CreditsOpen
Nova Scotia digital media tax credit
Government of Nova ScotiaRefundable tax credit for interactive digital media development in Nova Scotia
Nova Scotia, Canada

Grant and FundingOpen
Workplace Education Initiative
Government of Nova ScotiaSupport for Nova Scotia skills development
Nova Scotia, Canada

Expert AdviceOpen
Europe Market Development Program
Government of Nova ScotiaDevelopment support for Atlantic exporting companies
Nova Scotia, Canada

Other SupportOpen
ACOA Industrial and Technological Benefits policy
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)Help with defence procurement for Atlantic contractors
Nova Scotia, Canada

Loans and Capital investmentsOpen
Invest Nova Scotia — Investment
Government of Nova ScotiaEarly stage investment for Nova Scotia innovators
Nova Scotia, Canada