Accelerating Innovations into CarE (AICE)

For Alberta-based health and life sciences companies, one of the biggest hurdles to commercialization is generating the scientific and clinical evidence needed to prove safety, effectiveness, and real-world value. The Accelerating Innovations into CarE (AICE) program is designed to help bridge that gap by supporting promising health technologies as they move from validation toward market adoption. Delivered by Alberta Innovates, AICE focuses on small and medium-sized enterprises developing medical devices, digital health solutions, diagnostics, and other biotech innovations that require rigorous evidence before scaling.

What sets AICE apart is its staged approach to funding and support. Businesses can access non-repayable funding that can reach up to roughly $600,000, depending on the maturity of their technology and the type of evidence they need to generate. Earlier-stage projects may focus on refining the technology and establishing initial proof of safety and effectiveness, while more advanced companies can pursue later-stage clinical studies and activities tied to regulatory approval and market access. In addition to financial support, participants work closely with Alberta Innovates to align their projects with commercialization milestones and connect with expertise across the health innovation ecosystem.

With applications accepted on an ongoing basis, AICE is well suited for Alberta health technology SMEs that are ready to take a disciplined, evidence-driven step toward market readiness. Business owners considering this program will want to explore how their technology fits within the available funding streams and what level of readiness is expected before applying.