Ontario has made life sciences a priority sector. In 2023, the province committed $15 million to the Life Sciences Innovation Fund and $15 million to the Life Sciences Scale-Up Fund, aiming to strengthen domestic healthcare manufacturing and commercialization capacity. If you run a life sciences or health technology company in Ontario, the Life Sciences Innovation & Scale-Up Funds Ontario can help you move from product development to market-ready growth.
This guide explains how the two main programs work, who qualifies, and how to apply with confidence.
Ontario supports life sciences companies through two separate programs. Each program targets a different stage of company growth. Most businesses apply to only one program, based on their product maturity and revenue.
The Life Sciences Innovation Fund (LSIF) is delivered by the Ontario Centre of Innovation (OCI). It supports early-stage life sciences and healthcare technology companies. LSIF provides capital to help companies reduce risk and attract more investment.
Key details:
Who it’s for:
LSIF is best for companies before large-scale manufacturing or procurement. It does not support late-stage scale-up projects.
The Life Sciences Scale-Up Fund supports later-stage companies that are ready to expand production, commercialize a market-ready product, or strengthen Ontario’s healthcare supply chain.
Key details:
Eligibility requirements: Your business must:
Eligible projects must build on existing work and support commercialization, domestic manufacturing capacity, or healthcare adoption.
The application process is detailed and competitive. Good preparation increases your chances.
Choosing the wrong program is a common reason for rejection.
For the Scale-Up Fund, your project must:
Eligible expenses may include:
Tools like GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you filter programs by province and industry. This is useful if you need to combine multiple funding sources.
You will need:
Applying too early for the Scale-Up Fund
If your product is not market-ready, reviewers will see the risk immediately.
Ignoring the 33% funding cap
Requests above the maximum coverage are not adjusted—they are rejected.
Weak commercialization rationale
Technical innovation alone is not enough. You must show how the project will lead to sales, adoption, or procurement.
Unclear Ontario impact
Both programs prioritize economic and supply-chain benefits for Ontario.
Q: Can I apply to both the Life Sciences Innovation Fund and the Scale-Up Fund?
You generally apply to one program at a time. LSIF supports earlier-stage companies, while the Scale-Up Fund is for later-stage expansion.
Q: Is the Life Sciences Scale-Up Fund repayable?
The Scale-Up Fund is a non-repayable contribution, but funding terms are tied to project milestones and reporting obligations.
Q: Can I combine the Scale-Up Fund with other grants?
Yes. Stacking is allowed up to 67% of total eligible project costs from all government sources.
Q: Are projects outside Ontario eligible?
No. Your business must be located in Ontario or commit to relocating before the project starts.
Q: Is funding from these programs taxable?
Government funding is often considered taxable income. Confirm treatment with your accountant based on your specific structure.
The Life Sciences Innovation & Scale-Up Funds Ontario are effective when matched to the right stage and project. Before you apply, map your growth plan, confirm eligibility, and organize your funding sources.
GrantHub tracks thousands of active grant programs across Canada—including Ontario life sciences funding—so you can quickly see which options match your business profile and growth stage.
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