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Innovative Solutions Canada

Innovative Solutions Canada — Challenge Stream

Supports prototype development for federal problem statements in Canada through challenge-based procurement for digital trust, quantum, and logistics readiness.

Innovative Solutions Canada's Challenge Stream funds Canadian small businesses to prove the feasibility of an innovative solution and build a working prototype in response to specific federal government technology challenges. Administered by Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada, the Challenge Stream operates as a two-phase procurement contract: Phase 1 covers proof of feasibility, a

Optical Ground Station development; quantum repeaters for scalable networks; virtual and physical training for semi-autonomous teleoperated manipulators.

CycleiHow often this grant runs — e.g. annually, on a rolling basis, or a one-off call.Multiple per year
Next deadlineiThe next date applications are due. Rolling means you can apply any time.
Decision timeiTypical time from the deadline to the funder's decision.
Project durationiHow long the funded work is expected to run.
Award typeiThe form of funding — grant, equity, loan, tax credit, etc.Procurement contract
Match fundingiThe share of project costs you must cover yourself. 0% = fully funded.0%
Funding pooliThe total budget available across all awards in this round.

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Last verified: 24 Jul 2026Source: ised-isde.canada.ca