About National Research Council Industrial Research Assistance Program (IRAP)

• In 2013, the federal budget announced its $121M investment in the National Research Council (NRC) over 2 years to help the growth of innovative businesses in Canada
• In 2009-2010, NRC-IRAP worked with 8,578 SMEs in, of which 2,871 received some form of funding.

Technology Innovation Projects

• The IRAP program provides Federal Government grants to SME's to help them commercialize innovative technologies and products.
• Offers advisory services and research & development assistance

Funding Amounts?

• Ranges between $30K- $300K, matching 50-80% of total project cost
• Funding is determined by an Industry Technology Advisor (ITA)
• Funding is non-repayable, meaning you don't need to pay it back (as long as the terms of the Contribution Agreement are adhered to)

Who's Eligible?

Projects that typically qualify for mid-size project funding include:

• Development of new products, including manufacturing process analysis & product testing
• Creation of original software
• R&D, prototyping, feasibility studies

Basic eligibility criteria:

• Canadian SME, incorporated and profit-oriented;
• 500 or fewer full-time equivalent employees; and
• Objective is to grow and generate profits through development and commercialization of innovative, technology-driven new or improved products, services, or processes in Canada.

How to Apply?

• Ongoing application process that must be co-submitted with a local ITA.
• We recommend getting in touch with your local ITA before April 1 to learn more about their funding cycle and projects for the upcoming fiscal year.

Can You Also Claim SR&ED?

Yes, the company can also claim their portion of the expenses towards a SR&ED-eligible project.

Want More Info?

• Call: 1-877-994-4727
• Or look up regional offices and contact info at:
  http://www.nrc-cnrc.gc.ca/eng/irap/across_canada/index.html