Commercialization, Consulting and Mentoring

For Atlantic Canadian organizations that have moved beyond the idea stage and are preparing to bring something new to market, access to the right expertise can make all the difference. The Commercialization, Consulting and Mentoring program is designed to help small and medium-sized businesses and research-based organizations strengthen their commercialization readiness by covering part of the cost of external expertise. Managed by LearnSphere with support from the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, this initiative focuses on practical, late-stage activities that help turn innovation into market-ready offerings.

The program supports projects that involve hiring experienced consultants or mentors who can guide product launch planning, commercialization strategy, partnerships, or technology transfer. It can also be used to host group learning or mentoring activities that improve a team’s understanding of commercialization challenges and opportunities. Funding is non-repayable and typically covers a portion of eligible project costs, with support that can reach up to the mid–five-figure range depending on project size. Because the funding is reimbursement-based, applicants need to plan for upfront project expenses while benefiting from cost-sharing once the work is complete.

This opportunity is best suited for organizations in Atlantic Canada working on new and innovative products, technologies, or processes that are close to market. Businesses and institutions considering this support should review the program details carefully to see how it aligns with their commercialization goals and timelines.