If your business or organization is working on artificial intelligence in Atlantic Canada, the ACOA Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative (REGI) can help fund your project. This federal program supports AI development, commercialization, and adoption in key sectors across the region. The Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) delivers this initiative. It falls under the larger Regional Economic Growth through Innovation (REGI) framework.
The ACOA Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative (REGI) is a funding stream focused on projects that use AI to boost economic growth in Atlantic Canada. The main goal is to help organizations move AI from ideas to real-world solutions, especially in industries that are important to the region.
Projects supported by this initiative often aim to:
This program stands out because it is dedicated to artificial intelligence and its practical use in priority sectors.
Eligibility for the ACOA Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative follows the main REGI program rules.
You may qualify if you are:
Your organization must be based in, or have a strong economic impact in, Atlantic Canada (New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, or Newfoundland and Labrador).
Projects must show how AI adoption or development will help regional growth, not just improve your own operations.
ACOA focuses on AI projects with clear commercialization or adoption results. Funded projects often include:
Priority industries are:
Projects should show measurable economic benefits, such as new jobs, higher productivity, or better competitiveness.
There is no fixed maximum funding amount for the ACOA Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative. The amount you receive depends on:
ACOA funding comes as a contribution, which may be:
Contribution rates and repayment terms are set during the assessment process.
The application process is relationship-based and usually starts before you submit anything official.
Step 1: Prepare a clear project concept
Describe your AI technology, how it will be used, your budget, timeline, and expected results. Make sure AI is central to your project.
Step 2: Contact your local ACOA office
Most applicants start with an informal discussion or expression of interest. ACOA officers will check if your project fits and explain the next steps.
Step 3: Submit a full application
If invited, you will send a detailed proposal, including financial details, a work plan, and the expected economic benefits.
Step 4: Assessment and decision
ACOA reviews technical strength, financial readiness, and regional impact. Timelines vary, but decisions usually take several weeks to a few months.
Tools like GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you find AI and innovation programs by province and organization type.
Making AI a minor part of your project
If AI is not at the core of your solution, your project is unlikely to be funded.
Overlooking regional impact
ACOA wants to see benefits for the Atlantic Canadian economy, not just your organization.
Skipping early talks with ACOA
Not having early discussions often leads to applications that do not fit the program.
Underestimating reporting requirements
REGI contributions require milestones, progress reports, and financial tracking.
Show clear outcomes
Explain how your project will create jobs, improve productivity, or help key sectors.
Be realistic with your budget
Provide a detailed, reasonable budget and timeline.
Highlight partnerships
If you are working with other organizations, mention these collaborations.
Stay informed
Review the latest guidelines and check for updates on the ACOA website or through GrantHub.
Q: What is the ACOA Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative?
It is a federal funding initiative that supports AI development, commercialization, and adoption in Atlantic Canada under the REGI program.
Q: Who can apply for REGI AI funding?
Eligible applicants include businesses, not-for-profits, Indigenous organizations, and various levels of government with projects that benefit Atlantic Canada.
Q: What industries are prioritized?
ACOA prioritizes agriculture, clean technology, life sciences, manufacturing, and other sectors important to the region.
Q: Is the funding repayable?
Funding can be repayable or non-repayable, depending on your organization and project outcomes. For-profit commercialization projects are more likely to be repayable.
Q: How long does the application process take?
From first discussion to approval, timelines can range from several weeks to a few months, depending on your project’s readiness.
GrantHub tracks hundreds of active grant programs across Canada — see which ones fit your business profile.
If you plan an AI project in Atlantic Canada, the ACOA Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative could be a good fit—especially if your project matches regional priorities and commercialization goals. Start by outlining your project and talking early with ACOA. Compare REGI with other federal and provincial AI funding options to focus your efforts. GrantHub can help you search so you find the best match for your business.
Was this article helpful?
Rate it so we can improve our content.
Canada Proactive Disclosure Data
The Canadian government has funded over 400,000 businesses through 1.27 million grants and contributions. Check your eligibility in 60 seconds.