Digital Technology Supercluster Quantum Technologies Call for Proposals: How to Apply

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Digital Technology Supercluster Quantum Technologies Call for Proposals: How to Apply

Canada is investing heavily in quantum innovation, and the Digital Technology Supercluster Quantum Technologies Call for Proposals gives businesses a direct way to access that funding. This program supports collaborative projects that move quantum technologies closer to real-world commercialization. If your company is working in quantum computing, sensing, or communications, this program is designed to help you accelerate commercialization with partners.


What Is the Digital Technology Supercluster Quantum Technologies Call for Proposals?

The Call for Proposals: Quantum Technologies is run by the Digital Technology Supercluster (DIGITAL), one of Canada’s federally supported innovation superclusters. The main goal is to speed up the commercial adoption of quantum technologies by funding industry-led, collaborative projects.

Key Features

  • A focus on commercialization, not basic research
  • Projects led by a consortium of multiple organizations
  • Non-dilutive funding (DIGITAL does not take equity)
  • Emphasis on Canadian economic impact, including IP development and talent growth

Projects must solve real industry problems using quantum technologies and deliver measurable outcomes for Canada.


Who Is Eligible to Apply?

Eligibility is built around collaboration and industry leadership. DIGITAL looks at each proposal individually, but typical eligibility includes:

  • For-profit Canadian companies leading the project
  • Consortium teams with two or more partners
  • Partners may include:
    • Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)
    • Large companies
    • Post-secondary institutions
    • Research organizations
    • Not-for-profits with relevant expertise
  • Project activities must mainly benefit Canada’s digital economy

Academic partners are welcome, but projects must be industry-driven with a clear plan to bring technology to market.


What Quantum Technologies Are Supported?

The call targets applied quantum technologies that can be used in real-world settings. Supported focus areas include:

  • Quantum computing (hardware, software, and algorithms)
  • Quantum sensing and measurement
  • Quantum communications and security
  • Technologies that support quantum systems
  • Platforms that connect quantum solutions to existing digital systems

Projects should show how their technology will move out of the lab and into market-ready products or services.


How Much Funding Is Available?

There is no set funding amount per project. Funding depends on:

  • The project’s scope and complexity
  • The number and type of partners
  • The expected commercial and economic impact

DIGITAL funding is usually cost-shared. This means consortium partners pay part of the total project costs. The exact cost-share ratio is set during the proposal and negotiation process.

Funding is non-repayable and non-dilutive, but it may count as taxable income depending on your business structure.


How to Apply

Applying to the Digital Technology Supercluster Quantum Technologies Call for Proposals is a multi-stage process. Here’s how it works:

1. Build Your Consortium

You must find and confirm your project partners early. DIGITAL wants partners who work closely together, not just loose affiliations.

2. Develop a Project Concept

Your concept should clearly explain:

  • The industry problem you are solving
  • Why quantum technology is needed
  • Expected commercial outcomes and timelines
  • The benefits to Canada

3. Submit a Proposal to DIGITAL

When you submit your proposal, you will need to provide:

  • Technical details
  • Budget and cost-sharing breakdown
  • A commercialization plan
  • Information about IP and data governance

4. Undergo Review and Due Diligence

DIGITAL reviews each proposal in detail. This may include:

  • Technical assessments
  • Checks on commercial viability
  • Evaluation of whether your consortium is ready to deliver

5. Project Approval and Contracting

If your project is approved, DIGITAL will work with your consortium to finalize agreements before releasing funding.

The review process can take several months, so plan ahead.


Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Applying without confirmed partners
    DIGITAL expects committed consortium members, not placeholders.

  • Focusing too much on research
    Projects must show a clear pathway to commercialization.

  • Underestimating project management needs
    Large, multi-partner projects require strong governance and reporting plans.

  • Ignoring IP strategy
    Unclear IP ownership or usage rights can delay or stop approval.


Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do projects need multiple partners to apply?
Yes. DIGITAL expects collaborative projects with more than one organization involved.

Q: Is the funding repayable?
No. Funding is non-dilutive and non-repayable, but it may be taxable depending on your situation.

Q: How long does the review process take?
Timelines vary, but reviews often take several months from submission to approval.

Q: Can startups apply?
Yes, as long as they are Canadian companies and part of a strong consortium.

Q: Are international partners allowed?
International organizations may participate, but the main benefits must go to Canada.

For more programs like this, GrantHub tracks hundreds of Canadian grants and innovation calls, making it easier to find options that fit your project.


Next Steps

If you’re interested in the Digital Technology Supercluster Quantum Technologies Call for Proposals, begin by finding potential partners and clarifying your commercialization goals. Tools like GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you filter programs by technology focus, province, and project type in seconds.

See also:

  • What Business Expenses Are Eligible Across Canadian Grants and Loans
  • How Long Do Canadian Grant Programs Take to Pay Out Funds?
  • How to Manage Financial, Legal, and IP Relationships for Growing Canadian Businesses

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