Helping Canada Lead Innovation Worldwide:
NRC's Industrial Research Assistance Program (IRAP)
Written by:
Kate Hendriks, Technical Writer.
The main focus of the National Research Council of Canada's Industrial Research Assistance Program (NRC-IRAP) is to create wealth nationwide, specifically through the development and commercialization of innovative technologies. NRCIRAP is an initiative geared towards small- to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Every year, approximately 10,000 SMEs work with Industrial Technology Advisors (ITAs) to solve obstacles encountered during technological innovation. With the help of ITAs, SMEs are provided with the necessary tools to develop innovative technologies. Although SMEs have the potential to receive financial assistance through IRAP, they also have access to a large network that can provide advice on technical, business, and professional matters. The IRAP network can also help SMEs with meeting the right contacts regionally, nationally, and internationally, giving these businesses the opportunity to make partnerships with other likeminded individuals and organizations.
Canadian incorporated and profit-based SMEs with the main goal of developing or improving upon technological processes, services, and products for profit stimulation are eligible for financial assistance through IRAP if they have fewer than 500 full-time equivalent employees. Because ITAs are an integral element throughout all stages of engagement with IRAP, all SMEs must consult with an ITA in order to ensure that IRAP is the most suitable initiative for the company and the proposed project. In order to further meet criteria for financial assistance through IRAP, SMEs must be able to provide a plan detailing how the company will commercialize their new or modified technology following development.
Here at NorthBridge, we can help connect your company to an ITA and walk you through the application process. We have experience helping clients in a variety of industries secure IRAP funding for their innovative projects.
