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Everything You Should Know About Government Grants

In today’s competitive business landscape, securing Government Grants can be a game-changer for companies looking to scale, innovate, and expand. Each year, both federal and provincial governments in Canada allocate billions of dollars through non-repayable grants and interest-free loans to bolster the growth of Canadian businesses. These funds are aimed at driving economic growth and encouraging ongoing innovation across various sectors.

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    What Are Government Grants?

    Government grants are non-repayable financial contributions from federal, provincial, or territorial governments aimed at supporting business activities aligned with public policy goals. Unlike loans or tax credits, these grants often come with specific eligibility requirements. They can fund a variety of initiatives, including R&D, market expansion, and job creation, helping businesses mitigate the financial risks of growth and innovation.

    Below, we provide an overview of some of the most impactful grants available, including their purpose, eligibility criteria, and the benefits they offer.

    • eco
      AgriScience Program

      Part of the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership, this program funds innovative agricultural research projects.

      • Eligible Areas: Climate change, economic growth, and resilience in agriculture.

      Funding: Covers up to 50% of eligible costs, with a maximum of $5M per project and $10M per organization.

    • manufacturing
      BC Manufacturing Job Grants

      Supports the growth and modernization of BC’s manufacturing sector.

      • Streams Available:
        • Stream 1: Up to 50% of project costs, capped at $50,000.
        • Stream 2: Funding from $100,000 to $10M for capital investments.

      Eligible Sectors: Forestry, aerospace, agritech, metals, biomanufacturing, and more.

    • travel_explore
      CanExport SME Program

      Designed to Help SMEs explore and expand into international markets, covering costs like marketing and trade shows.

      • Eligible Activities: Market research, trade shows, IP protection, and export readiness.

      Funding: Covers up to 50% of eligible costs, with budgets ranging from $20,000 to $100,000.

    • Lightbulb
      Sustainable Development Technology Canada (SDTC)

      Supports cleantech projects in three phases:

      • Idea Development: Funding between $50,000 and $100,000.
      • Start-Up: Provides $2M to $5M for well-defined projects.
      • Acceleration: High-growth companies can receive $2M to $5M to bring innovative technologies to market.

      Eligible Expenses: Salaries, R&D, equipment, and more.

      Funding: Covers up to 40% of eligible project costs.

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      Strategic Innovation Fund (SIF)

      Supports large-scale R&D and technology development projects that drive innovation in Canada:

      • Streams Available: 1.R&D projects, business growth, and collaborative projects.

      Funding: Up to 50% of eligible costs, with a minimum project cost of $20M.

    • globe
      CanExport Innovation

      Focuses on establishing R&D partnerships with foreign companies.

      • Eligible Activities: Technology development and adaptation for new markets.

      Funding: Covers up to 75% of eligible project costs, with a maximum of $75,000 per project.

    Which Industries Succeed More In Securing Government Grants?

    The industries with the highest success rates in securing Government Grants typically include:
    • Renewable Energy arrow_outward arrow_outward

      This sector is frequently supported by government grants aimed at promoting sustainable energy solutions like solar, wind, and geothermal technologies. The focus on reducing greenhouse gas emissions makes this industry a priority for funding.

    • Manufacturing arrow_outward arrow_outward

      This industry receives substantial government funding for projects that enhance competitiveness, promote technological adoption, and facilitate research and development efforts. Manufacturing is a key driver of the economy, which contributes to its high success rate in securing grants.

    • Healthcare and Biotechnology arrow_outward arrow_outward

      Given the critical importance of health innovations, grants are often allocated to research and development in medical technologies, drug discovery, and clinical trials. This sector has a strong track record of securing government grants support due to its societal impact.

    • Agri-Tech arrow_outward arrow_outward

      The agricultural technology sector, which focuses on improving efficiency and sustainability in food production, is another area with significant government funding opportunities. This sector’s emphasis on innovation in agriculture aligns with government priorities for food security and sustainability.

    • Information And Communication Technology arrow_outward arrow_outward

      The tech sector, encompassing areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and software development, benefits from numerous grant programs designed to foster innovation and technological advancement.

    • Cleantech arrow_outward arrow_outward

      Companies developing technologies aimed at environmental sustainability, such as waste management and renewable resource management, are often successful in obtaining grants due to the increasing emphasis on combating climate change. These industries are prioritized for government grants due to their potential to drive innovation, create jobs, and address pressing societal challenges.

    • FOOD PROCESSING

      ↗

      The food processing industry has a high success rate in securing government grants, reflecting its critical role in the economy and food supply chain.

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    Grants Scenario
    Sustainable Technology

    <p style=”color: white !important;”> This company has grown to become a leading-edge geophysical acquisition design and software company. They aim to bring sustainable exploration solutions to energy development. </p>
    • Sector Software
    • Location Alberta
    • Program NRC-IRAP

    Funding Received

    $32,000 Access Your Government Grants arrow_outward arrow_outward

    Grants Scenario
    Clean Energy

    This company is a leader in clean energy innovation. The company is an engineering firm specializing in alternative fuel systems solutions. They provide turn-key solutions for their clients and serve as designer and systems integrator.
    • Sector Clean Energy
    • Location Ontario
    • Program NRC-IRAP

    Funding received

    $50,000 Access Your Government Grants arrow_outward arrow_outward

    Grants Scenario
    Information Technology

    This company is focused on designing, creating and deploying its proprietary integrated technology. Their software is tailored for any green industry, tree services, landscaping, and lawn care businesses of any size offering all the modules needed to manage their business efficiently and smoothly.
    • Sector Information Technology
    • Location Toronto
    • Program CanExport

    Funding Received

    $30,000 Access Your Government Grants arrow_outward arrow_outward

    Grants Scenario
    Food Processing

    This company is a B2B food processor that manufactures a line of products for the ready-to-heat and ready-to-eat market. They work with clients from ideation and formulation to commercialization and production. They use the freshest local ingredients to produce a range of products including meat dishes, wraps, salads, soups and sauces. They aim to enhance consumer experience from the fit and finish of the packaging to the freshness, color, texture and flavor profile of the finished product.
     
    The grant was used to invest in energy efficient food processing equipment.
    • Sector Food Processing
    • Location Orangeville, ON
    • Program SCAP – Agri-Food Cost Saving Initiative

    Funding received

    $29,470.27 Access Your Government Grants arrow_outward arrow_outward

    Grants Scenario
    Woodwork Manufacturing

    This company is a manufacturer of residential and commercial architectural millwork. With a cumulative experience of over 38 years, the team brings unmatched expertise in wood products processing and have forged an unstoppable force in the industry.
    The company works closely with the design teams of its clients to transforming their dreams into reality. They seamlessly blend unique, visually stunning designs with functionality and purpose. This approach has not only led to a surge in demand but also fueled their continuous pursuit of perfection.
    • Sector Woodwork Manufacturing
    • Location Vancouver, BC
    • Program BC Manufacturing Jobs Grant

    Funding received

    $320,000 Access Your Government Grants arrow_outward arrow_outward

    How can Leyton help with Government Grants?

    • search
      Identifying relevant grant opportunities

      Our Leyton’s consultants utilize extensive databases and networks to identify government grants that align with our client’s specific business needs and objectives

    • fact_check
      Assessing Eligibility

      Once potential grants are identified, Our experts conduct a detailed eligibility assessment.

    • assignment
      Preparing Compelling Applications

      Leyton assists clients in crafting strong grant applications that stand out

    • trending_up
      Maximizing Funding Potential

      Leyton’s team works to ensure clients receive the maximum possible funding

    Grant Application Methods:


    There are typically two ways to apply for government grants:

    Traditional Method

    Prepare and submit a detailed proposal outlining your project and budget.

    Pre-Approval Method

    Qualify for funding before starting the project by presenting a well-defined plan.

    FAQs

    All you need to know about Government Grants

    Can’t find the answer you’re after? Please contact our team

    What are government grants? keyboard_arrow_down keyboard_arrow_up

    Government grants are financial incentives provided by federal, provincial, and municipal governments to support businesses in various industries. These grants help fund ongoing research and development (R&D) projects, cover salaries, and support marketing activities, serving as a valuable resource for organizations seeking capital to drive innovation and growth.

    Who can apply for government grants? keyboard_arrow_down keyboard_arrow_up

    Government grants are available for businesses of all sizes, including startups, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and large corporations. Eligibility criteria vary depending on the specific grant program but may consider factors such as business type, size, industry, location, and alignment with the grant’s objectives.

    Can I apply for more than one grant? keyboard_arrow_down keyboard_arrow_up

    Yes, businesses can apply for multiple grants as long as the projects meet the requirements of each program.

    What happens if my grant application is rejected? keyboard_arrow_down keyboard_arrow_up

    You can reapply or explore other funding opportunities. Our Leyton experts can help you improve your application for better chances of success.

    Talk to a specialist arrow_outward arrow_outward
    What types of government grants are available? keyboard_arrow_down keyboard_arrow_up

    What types of government grants are available?
    Some of the most well-known government grant programs include:
    •Agri-Science Program: is part of the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (SCAP). It supports innovative agricultural research projects that address climate change, economic growth, and sustainability in the agriculture sector. Eligible projects can receive funding covering up to 50% of costs, helping businesses drive innovation and improve resilience in the agricultural industry.
    •CanExport SME: Helps SMEs establish their presence in high-priority markets where they currently have limited or no sales.
    •CanExport Innovation: Provides funding for projects that focus on establishing new partnerships with eligible foreign partners for collaborative R&D or investment agreements.
    •Sustainable Development Technology Canada (SDTC): Funds Canadian cleantech projects and guides companies in bringing their innovative technologies to market.
    •Strategic Innovation Fund (SIF): Supports innovative Canadian businesses that boost Canada’s global competitiveness, providing financial support for R&D, product development, and collaborations.
    •BC Manufacturing Job Grants: aims to boost the manufacturing sector in British Columbia by funding projects that promote innovation, modernization, and job creation. With two streams available, businesses can receive up to 50% of project costs for initiatives such as capital investments and expanding operations, with funding ranging from $50,000 to $10M.

    How long does it take to receive grant funding? keyboard_arrow_down keyboard_arrow_up

    The timeline varies, but it typically takes several weeks to a few months.

    How do I find relevant government grants for my business? keyboard_arrow_down keyboard_arrow_up

    To stay informed about available government grants:
    •Subscribe to our newsletter  Fundhub to – receive the latest news about grant openings and eligibility requirements.
    • Contact our grants experts to enhance your knowledge and increase your chances of success.

    Ready to explore your funding opportunities?

    Contact us to get started on your grant application process and secure the financial support your business needs.

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