PrairiesCan — Regional Economic Growth through Innovation — Regional Innovation Ecosystems

Organizations that play a hands-on role in supporting innovative businesses across the Prairies may find meaningful support through PrairiesCan’s Regional Economic Growth through Innovation – Regional Innovation Ecosystems initiative. This program is geared toward not-for-profit organizations that strengthen the networks, services, and infrastructure businesses rely on to move from idea to commercialization and global growth. By investing in the broader ecosystem, the program helps ensure that promising companies have access to the tools, expertise, and connections they need to scale and compete internationally.

Regional Innovation Ecosystems focuses on projects that respond to real market opportunities and challenges, particularly in priority areas such as clean technology, life sciences, value‑added agriculture, advanced manufacturing, and digital technology. Supported activities often include expanding incubators or accelerators, building shared facilities or testbeds, helping businesses commercialize late-stage technologies, and improving productivity through technology adoption. A strong emphasis is placed on inclusive growth, with projects designed to better support under-represented entrepreneurs, including Indigenous peoples, women, and youth, within regional innovation systems.

Funding levels vary depending on the scope and impact of the project, and contributions may be conditionally repayable. Applications are typically accepted on an ongoing basis, making it important for organizations to understand how their initiatives align with program priorities. For not-for-profits looking to deepen their impact within Prairie innovation ecosystems, exploring the full details of this program can help determine the right path forward.