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Government Funding and Grants
The Intellectual Property Ontario (IPON) program
The Intellectual Property Ontario (IPON) program was introduced by the Ontario Government in Winter 2022. This program was designed to help Ontario businesses access the support they need to safeguard their intellectual property. It provides this support small and medium-sized entrepreneurs (SMEs) in Ontario by providing financial support for IP services, ensuring they have the necessary tools and resources they need to safeguard and capitalize on their innovations.
Eligibility Criteria:
To apply for the IPON funding, you must meet certain eligibility criteria’s including: Location: Your business must be based in Ontario. Type of business: You must be an entrepreneur, small and medium sized enterprise (SME), or a researcher. Ownership: You must own the intellectual property you wish to protect or have legal authority from the intellectual property owner to manage or protect the IP.
Applicable Services: IP Audits and Surveys Development of an IP Strategy Competitive Landscape Reports Patent and Trademark Registration Contractual Support Initial Reimbursements for IP-Related Activities
Non-Applicable Services: Administrative costs Subscriptions Taxes
Non-Applicable Services: Strategy and implementation: Maximum of $35,000 Co-investment: 20% required from applicant
Leveraging IPON Funding for Future Growth
Elevate IP
ElevateIP is a federally funded initiative in Canada designed to provide Canadian businesses and startups with the intellectual property resources and support they need to grow, manage, and leverage their intellectual property. It is a nationwide program that ensures startups, especially those in the early stages, can access critical IP advice, services, and funding to protect and maximize the value of their intellectual property. The program serves a diverse group of innovators across Canada, offering a range of funding options, expert guidance, and educational resources to help businesses protect their innovations and unlock new business opportunities. Through its collaboration with organizations such as Springboard Atlantic, Mouvement des accélérateurs d’innovation du Québec (MAIN), Communitech, Innovate Calgary, and New Ventures BC Society, ElevateIP provides services that are customized to regional business needs. The program offers funding, educational support, and expert advisory services that enable startups to protect and grow their IP portfolios. Key Features and Benefits of ElevateIP: Nationwide Reach and Local Impact ElevateIP operates across Canada, with specific regional programs in Ontario, Quebec, Alberta, British Columbia, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Newfoundland and Labrador, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and the Yukon. Each of these regional programs is tailored to address the unique needs of startups in those areas, leveraging local expertise and resources. Startups benefit from both national coordination and local support, ensuring that they receive relevant and region-specific assistance. Funding for IP Strategy and Implementation One of the most significant advantages of the ElevateIP program is its funding component. The program offers grants that can be used for a variety of IP-related services. These grants can cover activities such as IP assessments, strategy development, asset creation, protection, and legal advice. IP Strategy Development: Startups can receive up to $25,000 for the development of an IP strategy, which is crucial for outlining how they will manage, protect, and leverage their IP assets to create value. IP Implementation: For businesses that are ready to implement their IP strategies, ElevateIP offers up to $75,000 in funding to help with the practical aspects of IP protection, including patent and trademark registration, drafting legal documents, and filing fees. Co-investment Requirement: Typically, startups must contribute between 10-30% of the total costs, depending on the specific program stream. This encourages startups to invest in their own IP protection and strategy while allowing them to leverage public funds to scale their operations. Expert Advisory Services ElevateIP connects startups with a network of IP experts, legal professionals, and business mentors who can provide valuable guidance on a wide range of topics. These experts offer practical insights on how to: Assess the value of intellectual property assets. Develop and refine IP strategies. Navigate the legal complexities of IP registration and protection. Draft and review contracts related to IP licensing, assignment, and commercialization. Identify opportunities for commercialization and revenue generation from IP. 3 Levels of Support Tier 1: IP Education – Free Tier 2: IP Strategy and Development – Application Required Tier 3: IP Strategy Implementation – Application and Co-Investment Required Learn more about Elevate IP here.
Invest Ottawa
Invest Ottawa along with Launch Lab and Spark Centre, are accepting applications for their ElevateIP Program. This program is designed to help Canadian businesses and startups in the region of Eastern Ontario to enhance their understanding and knowledge of intellectual property (IP), develop robust IP strategies and create valuable IP assets. The program is delivered in collaboration with Communitech and ISED (Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada), employing a comprehensive three-tiered approach to support early-stage companies. The ElevateIP Program aims to provide the necessary tools and resources for startups to effectively navigate the complex IP landscape, empowering them to protect, commercialize, and leverage their innovations. By offering funding and expert advice, the program helps businesses safeguard their intellectual property while positioning them for future success. Region: Eastern Ontario Eligible Services: Competitive landscape brief to analyze scientific or technological trends IP strategy development IP asset creation IP protection such as patents, trademarks or copyright registrations IP drafting/filing/prosecution Legal advice for the preparation and/or review of agreements that protect, create or support IP Key components of Funding: Strategy Funding: Amount up to $25,000: This allocation supports the development of an IP strategy, including competitive analysis, IP creation, and the groundwork for protection. Implementation Funding: Amount up to $30,000: This funding assists startups in implementing their IP strategy, including securing IP protection through patents, trademarks, and other legal avenues. To participate, applicants are required to provide a co-investment ranging from 10-30%, ensuring their commitment to the success of their IP journey. By providing both financial support and strategic guidance, the ElevateIP Program equips startups in Eastern Ontario with the resources they need to successfully manage and leverage their intellectual property for long-term growth and sustainability.
MomentumIP (MAIN)
About: The MomentumIP (MAIN) program is a specialized service funded by Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED), designed to provide Canadian companies with access to high-quality intellectual property (IP) services. Focused on supporting accelerators, incubators, and other innovation-driven organizations, MomentumIP (MAIN) aims to facilitate the growth of Canadian startups by ensuring they have the necessary IP expertise to succeed in a competitive global marketplace. In Quebec, the MAIN initiative serves as the primary facilitator for the MomentumIP program, working in close collaboration with a vast network of intellectual property experts. This partnership ensures that the unique needs of the Quebec entrepreneurial ecosystem are met with tailored, professional support. The program considers the diverse requirements of Quebec-based organizations and startups, offering customized solutions to address the specific challenges they face in managing and protecting their intellectual property. As a beneficiary of the ElevateIP Program, which is a national initiative by ISED, MomentumIP (MAIN) is recognized as a leader in providing IP support for startups across Quebec. Through this collaboration, the program offers targeted support to help Quebec-based businesses protect their innovations, create new IP assets, and build effective IP strategies to foster long-term growth and commercialization. Region: Quebec Eligible services: IP registration IP strategy development IP drafting/filing/prosecution IP asset creation IP protection Key components of Funding: Strategy Funding: Amount up to $3,000: This allocation is designed to assist with the development of an IP strategy, which can include IP assessments, strategic consultations, and the creation of an actionable roadmap for securing and managing IP assets. Implementation Funding: Amount up to $100,000: This more substantial funding supports the practical steps involved in IP protection, such as filing patents or trademarks, drafting legal documents, and prosecuting IP applications to ensure their effective enforcement. To participate in the program, applicants are required to contribute a co-investment of 25-30%, which ensures a shared commitment to the development and protection of intellectual property. Through the MomentumIP (MAIN) program, Quebec startups have access to critical resources that not only help them safeguard their innovations but also position them for growth and success in the global marketplace. The program’s unique approach, tailored specifically to the Quebec ecosystem, ensures that businesses are equipped with the expertise and financial support they need to thrive.
Accelerate IP
About: The AccelerateIP Program, an extension of the ElevateIP initiative, is designed to assist hundreds of innovative startups located in British Columbia, Yukon, Northwest Territories, and Nunavut in growing, protecting, and maximizing the value of their intellectual property (IP). Led by New Ventures BC and in partnership with Innovate BC, the program provides a comprehensive suite of resources, including educational opportunities, skills development, and financial support, to help companies protect, manage, and strategically leverage their IP assets. The AccelerateIP program is particularly focused on helping startups navigate the complexities of IP, enabling them to safeguard their innovations and ensure their competitive advantage in the marketplace. It is offered through three distinct program streams, each targeting different aspects of IP development, strategy, and implementation. Region: British Columbia, Yukon, Northwest Territories, Nunavut Eligible services: IP registration IP protection Legal contractual drafting IP applications Filing fees IP strategy development IP asset creation IP protection IP drafting/filing/prosecution Legal advice for the preparation and/or review of agreements that protect, create or support IP 3 Program Streams: Stream 1: IP Awareness and Education This stream focuses on building general knowledge of intellectual property among participants. It aims to provide foundational education to startups, ensuring they understand the importance of IP in their business development and how to navigate the IP landscape effectively. Stream 2: IP Strategy This stream is designed for startups that are ready to develop a comprehensive IP strategy. The program is structured with a completion timeline of three months, with no extensions allowed. It offers two tiers of support: Tier 1: Mentorship Startups will receive guidance and mentorship from industry experts to shape their IP strategy. Tier 2: Financial Support A $25,000 grant is available to support strategy development, with a co-investment requirement of 10-25%. This tier helps businesses refine their IP strategy and better position themselves for growth. Eligibility Requirements for Stream 2: To be eligible for Stream 2, startups must engage in mentorship and strategy development activities as part of the program. Intake Dates for Stream 2: Intake 1: Jan 14 – Feb 10 (project start date: April 1 – June 30) Intake 2: May 1 – May 29 (project start date: Sept 1 – Nov 30) Stream 3: Implementation This stream is geared toward startups that have an established IP strategy and are ready to act on their plans. The program offers six months of support, with no extensions available. A $60,000 grant is provided to assist with the implementation of IP strategies, including protecting IP, filing applications, and managing IP assets. A co-investment of 10-25% is required from applicants. Eligibility Requirements for Stream 3: Startups applying for Stream 3 must have an existing IP strategy and demonstrate the ability to implement it effectively. This stream is ideal for businesses that are looking to bring their IP strategies to fruition with practical actions. Intake Dates for Stream 3: Intake 1: Dec 9 – Jan 23 (project start date: April 1 – June 30) Intake 2: May 1 – May 29 (project start date: Sept 1 – Feb 28, 2026) Through AccelerateIP, startups in BC, Yukon, Northwest Territories, and Nunavut will receive vital support in protecting their intellectual property, increasing their market competitiveness, and positioning themselves for long-term success. The program’s tailored support across three distinct streams ensures that companies at various stages of their IP journey can access the resources and guidance they need. Learn more here: Accelerate IP
Innovate Calgary (Alberta)
About: The Innovate Calgary (Alberta) program, part of the broader ElevateIP initiative, is a key resource for entrepreneurs in Alberta looking to enhance, protect, and leverage their intellectual property (IP). Delivered through a strategic partnership between Innovate Calgary and Economic Development Lethbridge, the program is designed to provide essential support to startups and early-stage companies. Its primary goal is to help business founders effectively manage their intellectual property, positioning them for long-term success in the competitive global marketplace. As part of its mission, the Innovate Calgary (Alberta) program leverages the expertise of business accelerators and incubators (BAIs), ensuring that participants have access to the necessary guidance and resources to safeguard and capitalize on their IP assets. By offering funding and strategic support, the program enables Alberta-based businesses to protect their ideas, develop comprehensive IP strategies, and strengthen their overall business growth. Region: Alberta Eligible Services: IP registration IP protection IP applications IP strategy development Key components of Funding: Strategy Funding: Amount up to $25,000 This funding is aimed at assisting businesses in developing a comprehensive and strategic approach to intellectual property management. It can be used for IP assessments, strategy consultations, and creating actionable plans to protect and leverage intellectual assets. Implementation Funding: Amount up to $60,000 For businesses that have an established IP strategy, this funding supports the practical steps needed to implement that strategy. This may include registering IP, filing applications, and other activities to protect and commercialize intellectual property. Co-investment Requirement: To participate in the Innovate Calgary (Alberta) program, applicants are required to contribute a co-investment of 10-35%. This ensures that businesses share in the financial commitment, demonstrating their dedication to the successful implementation of their IP strategies. How to Apply: To apply for the Innovate Calgary (Alberta) program, businesses must complete the qualification form, which can be found on the Innovate Calgary website. For further details on eligibility requirements, the application process, or to ask any questions regarding the program, interested parties are encouraged to reach out to [email protected]. Learn more: Programs and Fundings | Innovate Calgary
North Forge
About: North Forge is a leading incubator and accelerator that serves as a dynamic entrepreneur community, supporting the growth of science-based, technology-enabled, and advanced manufacturing startups in Manitoba. Through its innovative approach, North Forge helps entrepreneurs overcome challenges in real-time, significantly reducing the cost and risk associated with developing new products and ideas. With access to one of North America’s largest fabrication labs (FabLab™), North Forge operates out of 35,000 square feet of space across Innovation Drive and Innovation Alley in Winnipeg, Manitoba. This world-class facility offers state-of-the-art tools and resources that help startups bring their ideas to life and scale their businesses. In collaboration with Communitech and Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED), North Forge offers a structured, 3-tiered program designed to provide funding and strategic support tailored to each stage of the startup journey. The program aims to empower businesses with the necessary resources to manage, protect, and leverage their intellectual property (IP) effectively. Region: Manitoba, Saskatchewan Eligible Services: IP Education & Awareness through consultations, workshops and online resources IP assessment and IP audits to identify strategy gaps IP Strategy and development IP strategic advice and support IP protection such as patents, trademarks or copyright registrations Legal advice for the preparation and/or review of agreements that protect, create or support IP. Key components of Funding: Strategy Funding: Up to $25,000: This funding supports the development of a robust intellectual property strategy. It can be used for consultations, IP audits, and the creation of a tailored plan to guide a business’s IP management efforts. Implementation Funding: Up to $75,000: This funding is designed to help startups take practical steps to implement their IP strategy. It covers expenses such as filing for patents or trademarks, conducting IP protection activities, and other legal requirements to ensure the business’s intellectual assets are safeguarded. Co-investment Requirement: To qualify for funding through the North Forge Program, applicants are required to provide a co-investment of 10-30% of the total amount requested. This ensures that businesses are equally invested in the success of their intellectual property initiatives and are committed to advancing their growth. How to Apply: To apply for the North Forge Program, interested businesses should complete the application form, which is available on the program’s website. For any questions or assistance during the application process, applicants can contact Nermin Sa’d for further support. The North Forge Program provides an invaluable opportunity for startups in Manitoba and Saskatchewan to access the resources they need to manage and protect their intellectual property, ensuring long-term success and competitiveness in the marketplace. With its combination of funding, expert guidance, and state-of-the-art facilities, North Forge offers a comprehensive support system for innovative businesses looking to grow and thrive. Learn more here: ElevateIP Program | North Forge
Springboard Atlantic IP
About: The Springboard Atlantic IP Advantage program aims to increase awareness and understanding of intellectual property (IP) among high-growth start-ups in the Atlantic region. With the support of ElevateIP from Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED), this initiative offers essential services and funding designed to help innovative start-ups navigate the complexities of intellectual property. Through collaborations with Springboard Atlantic and a network of other supporting organizations across Canada, the program provides start-ups with IP-related training, financial support, and expert services. This comprehensive support structure enables start-ups to connect with IP professionals and to build, refine, and implement effective IP strategies that are essential for long-term business growth and success. Region: Newfoundland and Labrador (NL), Nova Scotia (NS), New Brunswick (NB), Prince Edward Island (PE) Eligible Services: IP assessments Comprehensive searches/ development of an IP road map IP Strategy and development IP protection Execute IP strategy Coaching Key components of Funding: The program offers significant financial support to help businesses develop and execute their IP strategies. The funding structure is as follows: IP Strategy Development: Eligible businesses can receive up to $50,000 in funding for the development of a comprehensive IP strategy. IP Strategy Implementation: Additional funding of up to $25,000 is available to support the execution of the developed strategy. A 10% co-investment from the applicant is required to ensure that businesses are invested in their own IP development and strategy implementation. Program Application and Intake Schedule (2025): Start-ups and other eligible businesses can apply for funding and services through the program during specific intake periods. The intake schedule for the 2024-2025 program year is as follows: Friday, February 14, 2025 Friday May 16, 2025 Friday August 15, 2025 Friday November 14, 2025 Further Information: For more detailed information about the program, including eligibility criteria and how to apply, please visit Springboard Atlantic IP Advantage - Atlantic IP Advantage. Comprehensive Program Package Guidelines are also available for download, outlining all requirements and processes in detail.
IRAP IP Assist (IPIC) and IP Assist National research council (NRCC)
Overview: If you are a small or medium-sized Canadian business focused on technology-driven innovation, you may be eligible for financial support through the National Research Council of Canada’s (NRC) Industrial Research Assistance Program (IRAP). The IRAP initiative is designed to support businesses in their technology innovation projects and youth employment strategy programs, helping them to advance their research and development (R&D) efforts. As part of its support, IRAP offers financial assistance to companies pursuing intellectual property (IP) strategies to help protect and commercialize their technological innovations. Specifically, the IP Assist Program is available to help eligible businesses develop and execute robust IP strategies, ensuring that their intellectual property is properly safeguarded. Financial Support: The IP Assist Program offers subsidies of up to $50,000 to assist eligible businesses with creating and implementing comprehensive IP strategies. This funding can be used to cover various costs associated with IP protection, including consultations with IP professionals, the development of a customized IP plan, and legal services required for IP execution. Eligibility and Process: If you are already a client of IRAP, you should reach out to your designated Industrial Technology Advisor (ITA) to discuss your business's IP needs. They can help guide you in crafting an IP strategy that is aligned with your company’s innovation objectives. The strategy will not only help protect your intellectual property through patents, trademarks, and designs but also allow you to assess potential competitors and identify opportunities for future partnerships. For IRAP clients seeking support under the IP Assist Program, your ITA will provide an IP Assist Proposal template. Once completed, this template should be submitted along with a quote from an IP lawyer or consultant (also known as a PCK agent) outlining the costs and scope of the proposed work. The ITA will review the submission and help facilitate access to funding. Levels of Service: The IP Assist Program offers three distinct service levels, each providing varying degrees of support based on the stage of your business and the complexity of your IP needs: Level 1: Awareness and Education Support Amount: Up to $1,000 Description: This level is designed for businesses that need to understand the basics of intellectual property. It includes an introductory session with an IRAP ITA to assess your current knowledge and your firm’s IP strategy. A tailored one-on-one session with an IP professional will be held, where they will provide industry-specific guidance, IP awareness training, and an opportunity to ask questions. This engagement typically lasts around 3 hours. Level 2: Custom IP Strategy Development Support Amount: Up to $25,000 (covering 75% of contractor fees and up to 80% of internal employee costs) Description: This level is intended for businesses looking to develop a customized IP strategy with the help of an IP service provider. The support covers a significant portion of the costs associated with working with an external contractor to develop a detailed and tailored IP strategy that aligns with your business goals. If you require this service, a cost estimate and scope of work will be provided to support your application for funding. Level 3: Legal Services for IP Strategy Execution Support Amount: Up to $25,000 (covering 75% of contractor fees and up to 80% of employee salaries) Description: At this level, the funding is designed to enable businesses to access licensed legal services required for the implementation of their IP strategy. This can include hiring legal professionals to take action on patent filings, trademark registrations, or other legal actions necessary to execute the developed IP strategy. Ineligibility Costs: While the IP Assist Program provides valuable funding for various IP activities, certain costs are not eligible for support under the program. These ineligible costs include: Legal fees related to drafting patent applications, responding to office actions, or paying foreign agent fees. Fees due to national patent offices, including but not limited to patent filing, examination, and maintenance/annuity fees. Costs related to patent drafting and prosecution. Freedom-to-operate legal opinions. Infringement and validity opinions. Membership or subscription fees related to IP services or databases. File management costs, whether managed internally or outsourced to external service providers. The NRC IRAP IP Assist Program offers a structured and accessible way for small and medium-sized businesses in Canada to safeguard their technological innovations and build competitive advantage in the market. By leveraging the funding and expert resources available through this program, businesses can ensure that their intellectual property is well-protected and strategically aligned with their overall business goals. Learn more here: IP Assist
Finding the Right Funding and Support
While the above list canvases many great opportunities to help bring innovative products and services to market, it is important to also investigate what financing opportunities are specifically applicable to your innovations. Research whether funds or support are available to your business based on the industry in which you operate, the geographical region you conduct or intend to conduct business in, your objectives, or your financial situation. It is also prudent to consult legal counsel prior to applying for innovation funding or support since many intellectual property rights or other commercial interests can be affected by the terms and conditions of the agreement governing the funding, grant, or collaborative opportunity.
