Energy Innovation Program: Methane Measurement and Mitigation Call — How to Apply

Methane causes about 30% of global warming so far. Cutting methane emissions is one of the fastest ways to slow climate change. That’s why Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) is funding new tools and technologies through the Energy Innovation Program: Methane Measurement and Mitigation Call. This federal funding call helps Canadian businesses and research groups test, scale, and deploy solutions that measure or reduce methane emissions.

If you’re developing methane detection, monitoring, or mitigation technology, this guide explains how to apply and what NRCan looks for.

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Overview

The Energy Innovation Program (EIP) – Methane Measurement and Mitigation Call is a federal funding program run by Natural Resources Canada. It supports projects that improve how methane emissions are measured, quantified, and reduced. The main focus is on the oil and gas sector and other methane‑emitting industries.

Key facts

• Funding organization: Natural Resources Canada
• Jurisdiction: Federal (Canada-wide)
• Program status: Open (as of latest update)
• Funding type: Usually non-repayable contributions, subject to contribution agreement terms
• Official program page: NRCan Energy Innovation Program

Funding amounts are not set. NRCan decides budgets based on your project’s scope, technology readiness, and expected emissions reductions.

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Who Is Eligible to Apply?

Eligibility is set in each call for proposals. Applicants usually include:

• Canadian for-profit businesses, including small and medium-sized businesses
• Research organizations and post-secondary institutions
• Industry associations and not-for-profit organizations
• Indigenous organizations and communities
• Consortia, with a lead applicant based in Canada

Projects must take place in Canada and directly support methane measurement or mitigation goals.

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Eligible Projects and Activities

To be competitive, your project must show it can reduce uncertainty in methane emissions or deliver clear reductions. NRCan prefers applied, real-world projects over early-stage research.

Eligible project types include:

• Methane detection and measurement technologies (like sensors, satellites, or monitoring platforms)
• Quantification and reporting tools that improve emissions data accuracy
• Mitigation technologies that prevent, capture, or reduce methane leaks
• Field trials, demonstrations, and pilots in real-world settings
• Data integration systems that help with regulatory or voluntary reporting

Eligible costs usually include labour, equipment, professional services, and testing expenses. Check the call for proposals for details.

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How the Application Process Works

Applying to the Energy Innovation Program: Methane Measurement and Mitigation Call is competitive and requires detailed documents. NRCan reviews both technical and financial parts of your proposal.

Typical application steps

1. Review the call for proposals on NRCan’s website. Confirm eligibility and deadlines.
2. Prepare a detailed project proposal. Explain your technical approach and the emissions impact.
3. Submit a budget. Show eligible costs and any other funding sources.
4. Show your team’s capacity. Include team expertise and a project management plan.
5. Submit before the deadline. Late applications are not accepted.

GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you confirm if this program fits your project before you spend time on a full proposal.

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Funding Stacking and Other Programs

Stacking may be allowed, but total government help is capped and must follow federal rules. Many applicants combine this program with:

• SR&ED tax credits for eligible R&D work
• Provincial clean energy or emissions reduction grants

Always list all your funding sources in your application.

See also:

• How to stack grants and loans without violating funding rules
• What Business Expenses Are Eligible Across Canadian Grants and Loans?

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Vague emissions impact
   NRCan expects clear, measured methane outcomes.

2. Too early-stage technology
   Pure research without a path to real-world use is less competitive.

3. Incomplete budgets
   Missing cost details or unclear numbers can slow approvals.

4. Ignoring reporting requirements
   Projects must agree to share data and report progress.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the Energy Innovation Program – Methane Measurement and Mitigation Call?
It is a federal NRCan funding call that supports projects focused on measuring, detecting, and reducing methane emissions in Canada.

Q: How much funding can my business receive?
There is no fixed maximum. Funding depends on project scope, technology readiness, and expected methane reductions, as outlined in the call for proposals.

Q: Is the funding repayable?
Funding is generally provided as non-repayable contributions, subject to the terms of the contribution agreement.

Q: Can I combine this funding with SR&ED?
Yes, stacking may be allowed, but total government assistance must stay within permitted limits.

Q: When is the application deadline?
Deadlines vary by intake and are published in the official NRCan call for proposals.

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Next Steps

The Energy Innovation Program: Methane Measurement and Mitigation Call is a strong fit if your project can deliver real, measurable methane reductions. Good preparation matters, especially clear technical plans and accurate budgets.

GrantHub tracks hundreds of active grant programs across Canada — including federal clean energy funding — so you can see which opportunities match your business profile before you apply.