NRC — Medical device facilities

For healthcare organizations developing medical devices or diagnostic technologies, access to specialized facilities and hands-on expertise can be just as critical as direct funding. The NRC — Medical device facilities offer a practical way for startups, growing companies, and established enterprises across Canada to accelerate R&D by working directly with National Research Council Canada scientists and engineers. Rather than a traditional cash grant, this program provides fee-for-service access to advanced infrastructure and applied research support that can move an idea closer to clinical and commercial reality.

These facilities are particularly valuable for teams working in areas such as point-of-care diagnostics, digital health, and biomedical devices. Businesses can tap into capabilities like microfluidics and lab-on-chip development, biomedical software built to industry standards, materials processing, and prototype design. The NRC’s collaboration centres and clinical networks also help bridge the gap between lab research and real-world healthcare use, supporting projects ranging from organ-on-chip systems to remote and contactless health monitoring. Project costs vary depending on scope, but the support is non-repayable and tailored to the technical needs of each engagement.

For Canadian healthcare and medical technology companies looking to de-risk development, validate innovations, or prepare for manufacturing and commercialization, this program can be a strategic resource. Exploring the full range of services and collaboration options can help determine how these facilities fit into your product development roadmap.