If your business is outside Ontario and the Prairies, you may come across REGI funding through ACOA, CanNor, or CED. Each of these agencies runs its own version of the Regional Economic Growth through Innovation (REGI) program. They are not interchangeable. The right agency depends on where your project happens, not where your head office is.
Canada’s regional development agencies (RDAs) deliver REGI. They support business growth, innovation, and productivity in specific regions. Each agency has its own focus and process.
REGI is a federal program, but it is delivered by regional agencies. Each agency funds projects in its own area and uses slightly different priorities.
Here’s the overview:
All three agencies use REGI funding to support:
If your project takes place in more than one region, you still apply to the agency where the work actually happens.
ACOA delivers REGI to help Atlantic Canadian businesses grow and modernize.
Typical ACOA REGI priorities
Who can apply
ACOA often encourages early engagement with applicants. Many projects start with a discussion before a full application is submitted.
CanNor’s REGI stream reflects the higher costs and unique challenges of the North.
Typical CanNor REGI priorities
Who can apply
CanNor considers regional impact as well as business results, especially in smaller communities.
CED delivers REGI in Quebec, often with a strong focus on competitiveness and innovation.
Typical CED REGI priorities
Who can apply
CED applications often require more documents, especially around financial forecasts and project impact.
| Agency | Region | What Stands Out |
|---|---|---|
| ACOA | Atlantic Canada | Hands-on guidance, strong SME focus |
| CanNor | Northern Canada | Northern cost realities, community impact |
| CED | Quebec | Productivity, innovation, detailed analysis |
The funding structure is similar, but each agency has its own expectations and evaluation criteria.
Applying to the wrong agency
Your incorporation location does not matter. The project location does.
Assuming funding amounts are identical
Each agency sets its own contribution levels based on regional priorities and project type.
Waiting until expenses are incurred
REGI funding is not retroactive. You must get approval before starting your project.
Underestimating reporting requirements
All REGI streams require regular progress and financial reporting after approval.
Q: Is REGI a grant or a loan?
REGI funding is usually a repayable or non-repayable contribution, depending on the agency and project type. The structure is confirmed during assessment.
Q: Can I apply to more than one REGI agency?
No. You apply to the agency responsible for the region where your project activities will take place.
Q: Do all three agencies fund the same expenses?
Eligible costs are similar, but not identical. Each agency has its own rules and limits.
Q: Are startups eligible for REGI?
Early-stage startups may be eligible, but most REGI funding goes to established businesses with revenue and capacity to deliver the project.
Ask yourself these questions:
Tools like GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you filter REGI programs by province or territory in seconds.
ACOA, CanNor, and CED all deliver REGI — but the right door depends on your region and your project goals. Once you know where you fit, the next step is to confirm eligibility and timing.
GrantHub tracks active REGI and regional development programs across Canada. You can see which ones match your business profile before you invest time in an application.
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