Industrial Research Assistance Program (IRAP)
Gives Canadian small and medium-sized tech businesses non-dilutive contributions and one-on-one advisory support for R&D and commercialization projects.
A company first discusses its project with an IRAP Industrial Technology Advisor, then works with that advisor to co-develop and submit a funding proposal through NRC's systems. Funds are often advanced ahead of expenses being incurred rather than reimbursed afterwards, which the programme highlights as cash-flow friendly for startups.
IRAP backs Canadian small and medium-sized businesses with at least one full-time employee that are running technology R&D and commercialization projects, across sectors such as ICT, manufacturing and cleantech. It is built around an ongoing relationship with an assigned advisor rather than a single anonymous application.
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Guides for this application
All guides →Government Grants for Startups: What Deeptech Founders Should Know
A practical guide to government grants for startups, including Grants.gov, SBIR/STTR, state programs, eligibility, fit, timelines, and when to apply.
BudgetGrant Budget Template for R&D Applications
Use this grant budget template to structure R&D costs, personnel, subcontractors, equipment, indirect costs, and budget justification for startup grant applications.
Write proposalGrant Proposal Sections: What Reviewers Expect in Each Part
A section-by-section guide to grant proposal format, project summaries, work plans, budgets, teams, letters of support, outcomes, and reviewer expectations.
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