NRC IRAP (Industrial Research Assistance Program) isn’t only a grant—it gives SMEs access to money, advisory support and provides a network.
Objective
- Support Canadian SMEs in building innovation capacity and taking new technologies to market
- Provide technical + business advisory support, R&D funding, and connections through NRC’s 273+ Industrial Technology Advisors
- Help SMEs access and apply emerging technologies, develop new products/services, and commercialize them globally
- Includes critical AI-focused support.
Eligibility
- Canadian SMEs of any age (small & medium-sized)
- Intermediaries such as incubators, accelerators, science parks, industry associations, NGOs
- Projects in applied research or experimental development
- Collaboration with industry partners may be required depending on project scope.
Funds / Grants available
- Non-repayable contributions covering up to 75% of R&D project costs
- Maximum support: up to $10M CAD per firm per year
- Grant duration: 25–36 months
- Funding also supports hiring youth talent (6–12 months), IP strategy support, and international collaboration via Eureka.
- IRAP has disbursed over $1.3 billion CAD to clients in the last five years.
Deadlines
- NRC IRAP operates year-round. No deadlines
- Application timelines vary based on project type and advisor guidance — SMEs must apply through IRAP advisors to determine their window.
Whether you’re an early-stage innovator or scaling up for global growth — if you’re ready to bring your ideas to market, NRC IRAP can be the launchpad your business needs. Learn more here.