Strategic Innovation Fund (SIF)
Funds large Canadian innovation projects, from R&D and commercialization to major investments and collaborative innovation, through four defined streams.
Businesses submit project proposals through the SIF portal after first assessing which of the four streams their project fits and preparing a detailed business case. It is considered one of Canada's largest innovation grant programmes, and the process is described as competitive and documentation-heavy.
SIF backs innovation projects across sectors such as advanced manufacturing, clean tech, digital and life sciences, generally aimed at scale-up and growth-stage companies, though some streams can support smaller high-impact startups. Projects must fit one of four defined streams: R&D and commercialization, business growth, large investment, or collaborative innovation.
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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.
DocumentsEvaluation Plan for Grant Proposal: Template and Example
Learn how to write an evaluation plan for a grant proposal, including evaluation questions, indicators, data sources, timing, owners, and reporting logic.
Submit & reportGrant Progress Report Example and Template
Use this grant progress report example to structure accomplishments, milestones, challenges, budget status, evidence, next steps, and closeout preparation.
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