Early-stage R&D is risky. Prototypes fail, testing costs add up, and small teams rarely have access to advanced labs or equipment. Canadian research facilities help reduce that risk by giving your business access to proven infrastructure, technical experts, and real-world testing environments—before you commit major capital.
One of the easiest ways to find these resources is through the Research Facilities Navigator, a national directory supported by the Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI).
Canadian research facilities are located in universities, colleges, hospitals, and federal labs across the country. Many already support industry-led R&D, especially at the proof-of-concept and pilot stages.
The Research Facilities Navigator is not a grant or funding program. It is a free, federal tool that helps businesses find and connect with:
The Navigator covers facilities across Canada and is open to businesses of all sizes, including startups.
Using external research facilities can lower both technical and financial risk in several ways:
Validate feasibility early
You can test materials, processes, or algorithms before scaling. This helps catch flaws early, when changes are cheaper.
Access equipment you don’t need to buy
Advanced tools like clean rooms, imaging systems, or pilot-scale manufacturing lines can cost millions. Shared access avoids large capital spend.
Learn from experienced researchers
Many facilities are run by teams who have supported dozens of similar projects. Their input can prevent common design and testing mistakes.
Generate stronger data for funders
Results from credible research institutions strengthen future applications for R&D grants and programs like SR&ED.
Tools like GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you filter R&D support programs by province and industry once you’ve scoped your technical needs.
Be specific. Examples include:
Clear goals make it easier to identify the right facility.
The Navigator lets you search by:
Each listing shows what the facility offers and who to contact.
Access terms are set by the host institution. When you reach out:
Costs vary. Some facilities charge hourly rates, others work under collaboration agreements.
Document your work carefully. Facility-based R&D can support:
The Navigator itself does not provide funding, but it strengthens your case for it.
Assuming access is free
Many facilities charge fees. Always confirm costs upfront to avoid budget surprises.
Waiting too long to engage
Facilities can have booking delays. Contact them early in your R&D planning.
Not clarifying IP ownership
IP terms vary by institution. Get agreements in writing before work begins.
Using facilities without a clear R&D objective
Undefined testing leads to weak results and poor documentation for future funding.
Q: Is the Research Facilities Navigator a grant or funding program?
No. It does not provide direct funding. It helps you find research infrastructure and expertise that can support your R&D.
Q: Who can use the Research Facilities Navigator?
Businesses, startups, researchers, and organizations across Canada can use it. There is no size or sector restriction.
Q: Can startups use university labs through the Navigator?
Yes. Startups can connect with universities and colleges, subject to partnership agreements and facility policies.
Q: Does it cost money to access facilities listed in the Navigator?
Sometimes. Access fees and terms depend on the host institution and the type of work being done.
Q: Can work done through these facilities support SR&ED claims?
It can. Documented experimental work and collaboration records may support SR&ED or other R&D funding applications.
Using Canadian research facilities is one of the fastest ways to plan and de-risk R&D projects without overspending. Once you understand your technical gaps, the next step is finding funding programs that align with your R&D stage.
GrantHub tracks hundreds of active grant programs across Canada—so you can see which ones fit your business profile after your R&D plan takes shape.
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