Protecting your intellectual property (IP) can be expensive. A single Canadian patent application often costs several thousand dollars, depending on complexity and legal fees (Canadian Intellectual Property Office). Trademark costs can also add up, especially for companies planning to expand. The good news: in Canada, there are targeted funding programs for IP protection, especially for startups developing new technology. One of the most relevant programs right now is AccelerateIP.
This guide explains how IP funding works in Canada, what costs are eligible, and how programs like AccelerateIP can help you pay for patents and trademarks.
Most IP funding in Canada comes as non-repayable grants rather than loans. These programs help early-stage and growing businesses protect, manage, and commercialize their IP. The aim is to support companies before IP costs become a barrier to growth.
IP funding usually supports:
Programs rarely cover the full cost. Instead, they reimburse a portion of eligible expenses after approval.
AccelerateIP is one of the main programs focused specifically on IP protection in Western and Northern Canada (AccelerateIP / Government of British Columbia).
AccelerateIP is a public program delivered by New Ventures BC with support from the Government of British Columbia. It helps startups protect and use intellectual property through education, mentorship, and direct financial support.
Your business must meet all these criteria:
AccelerateIP offers several streams based on your business stage:
Stream 2 – Mentorship and Strategy
Stream 3 – Implementation
Funding is non-repayable, but only eligible and pre-approved expenses are covered (AccelerateIP).
AccelerateIP can help pay for:
General business costs, marketing, or product development are not eligible.
If you aren’t sure whether you qualify, GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you check your fit with programs like AccelerateIP.
While AccelerateIP is currently one of the most prominent IP-focused grants in Western and Northern Canada, there are other ways to get support for intellectual property across the country.
Several Canadian regional development agencies offer programs that may cover IP costs as part of broader innovation or commercialization projects. These include:
These grants usually require a technology focus and a clear plan to bring your product to market.
The National Research Council’s Industrial Research Assistance Program (NRC IRAP) sometimes funds IP-related expenses, especially when linked to R&D or technology development. You must work with an IRAP advisor to confirm if your IP costs are eligible.
Some provinces have their own innovation grants or vouchers that may cover IP strategy or legal costs. For example:
GrantHub tracks hundreds of active grant programs across Canada, making it easier to find ones that fit your IP needs.
Programs that fund patents and trademarks expect applicants to be well prepared. Before you apply, make sure you have:
Strong applications show that IP protection is a key part of your business model, not an afterthought.
Applying after filing your patent or trademark:
Most IP grants, including AccelerateIP, do not reimburse costs incurred before approval.
Assuming trademarks are always covered:
Some programs focus more on patents. Always check if trademark costs are eligible.
Missing geographic restrictions:
AccelerateIP is only for BC, Yukon, Northwest Territories, and Nunavut. Being incorporated in Canada is not enough.
Underestimating timelines:
Funding approvals can take weeks or months. Build this into your IP filing plan.
Q: Can I get funding for both patents and trademarks in Canada?
Yes. Some programs, including AccelerateIP, support both patents and trademarks if the costs are eligible and part of your IP strategy.
Q: Is AccelerateIP funding repayable?
No. AccelerateIP provides non-repayable funding, but it may be considered taxable income. Check with your accountant.
Q: Can startups outside British Columbia apply for AccelerateIP?
Yes, if they are based in Yukon, Northwest Territories, or Nunavut. Other provinces are not eligible.
Q: Can I combine IP funding with other grants?
Often yes, as long as you do not claim the same expense twice. Stacking rules vary by program.
Q: Do I need revenue to qualify for IP funding?
Not always. Many IP-focused programs target early-stage startups without revenue, as long as the technology and IP are clearly defined.
GrantHub makes it easy to check which IP and innovation grants match your business profile.
Funding for patents and trademarks in Canada is limited but targeted. If IP protection is important for your growth, programs like AccelerateIP can help reduce your costs.
To explore your options, use GrantHub to find IP funding by province, business stage, and technology focus. Planning ahead can help you manage your IP expenses before they become a barrier.
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