Financial support for technology innovation

For Canadian small and medium-sized businesses working to turn a promising technology into a market-ready product, access to the right expertise can be just as important as funding. The Financial support for technology innovation program, delivered through the National Research Council of Canada’s Industrial Research Assistance Program (NRC IRAP), is designed for companies that are actively developing innovative, technology-driven solutions and need support to move faster and smarter.

Rather than offering one-size-fits-all funding, NRC IRAP takes a hands-on approach. Businesses work directly with experienced advisors who help assess technical challenges, strengthen internal capabilities, and shape a clear path from research and development to commercialization. Depending on the project and the company’s readiness, this support may include non-repayable funding to offset a portion of eligible R&D and innovation-related costs. The level of funding varies by project, but the real value often comes from the strategic guidance, industry connections, and long-term advisory relationship that helps businesses scale sustainably.

This national program is open to incorporated Canadian SMEs across a wide range of industries, particularly those with strong growth potential and plans to generate economic benefits in Canada. Because support is tailored and competitive, not every business will receive funding right away, but many gain valuable direction and referrals even in early conversations. For innovative companies considering their next development milestone, learning more about how NRC IRAP works can be a smart next step.