Indigenous Intellectual Property Program Grant — Small Scale Initiative Stream

For Indigenous-led nonprofit organizations looking to better protect and manage their ideas, knowledge, and cultural expressions, the Indigenous Intellectual Property Program Grant — Small Scale Initiative stream offers targeted support to build practical IP capacity. Delivered nationally by Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada, this funding helps organizations take concrete, near-term steps to understand and use Canada’s intellectual property system in ways that align with Indigenous priorities and values.

This small-scale stream is designed for focused initiatives that can be completed over a shorter timeframe. Funding of up to around $15,000 can be used for activities such as researching IP options, developing community protocols around Indigenous knowledge or cultural expressions, creating educational materials, or laying the groundwork for an IP strategy. It can also support costs related to registering intellectual property where appropriate. The emphasis is on education, awareness, and capacity building, helping organizations strengthen their ability to safeguard innovations and share knowledge on their own terms.

The program forms part of Canada’s broader Indigenous Intellectual Property Program and reflects a commitment to reconciliation and increased Indigenous participation in IP systems, both domestically and internationally. While this small-scale initiative stream is not always open year-round, intakes run periodically. Understanding how this grant fits within your organization’s goals can help you decide whether to prepare for a future application and explore the full details through GrantHub.