Bringing a new product or service to market often comes with a critical gap: real-world testing and credible feedback before a full launch. The Innovative Solutions Canada — Testing stream is designed to help close that gap by giving Canadian innovators the chance to have their pre-commercial solutions tested in operational settings, alongside federal partners who can provide meaningful performance insights.
Delivered by Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada, this national program focuses less on traditional grants and more on validation through use. Selected projects may receive non-repayable funding tied to the government’s purchase and testing of the innovation, with funding levels varying depending on the scope, readiness, and interest from testing organizations. The program is open to a wide range of applicants, including startups, established businesses, nonprofits, and other organizations with innovations that are ready to be deployed, manufactured, and safely tested in real-life environments.
Rather than a one-time intake, the Testing stream runs multiple calls throughout the year, and competition can be strong. Projects that stand out typically demonstrate clear technical merit, measurable performance benefits, and readiness for hands-on testing. For organizations looking to validate their solution, build credibility, and gather evidence before scaling or commercialization, this program can be a strategic step forward. Reviewing the full details can help determine whether your innovation is well positioned for an upcoming call.
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