Industrial Research Assistance Program (IRAP)

For Canadian startups and growing small to medium-sized businesses, turning a promising idea into a market-ready product often requires more than capital alone. The Industrial Research Assistance Program (IRAP) is built around that reality, offering hands-on guidance alongside meaningful financial support to help innovative companies move forward with confidence. Delivered by the National Research Council of Canada, IRAP works with businesses across the country that are developing new or improved technologies and need expert insight to reduce risk and accelerate progress.

What sets IRAP apart is its combination of funding and personalized advisory services. Businesses work directly with experienced Industrial Technology Advisors who help shape project plans, refine technical approaches, and connect companies to relevant partners and resources. Funding is non-repayable and can range from smaller contributions for early-stage development to multi-million-dollar support for more advanced innovation projects. The program is especially relevant for companies in information technology, advanced manufacturing, clean technology, and biotechnology, but its reach spans a wide range of innovation-driven sectors.

IRAP is currently accepting applications and continues to operate nationally, even as it prepares to transition into the future Canada Innovation Corporation. For business owners exploring how to scale technology, hire technical talent, or bring new solutions to market, learning more about IRAP through GrantHub is a smart next step.