For Canadian small and medium-sized businesses trying to turn innovative ideas into real commercial products, access to both funding and expert guidance can make the difference between stalling and scaling. That’s where the National Research Council of Canada Industrial Research Assistance Program, commonly known as NRC IRAP, plays a central role. Designed for innovation-driven companies across the country, the program supports businesses that are developing new technologies, improving existing products, or preparing to bring innovations to market.
What sets NRC IRAP apart is its hands-on approach. In addition to non-repayable funding that can cover a meaningful portion of eligible project costs, participating businesses work directly with experienced industrial technology advisors. These advisors help companies strengthen their innovation strategy, overcome technical challenges, and connect with specialized research, academic, and industry partners. Funding levels vary depending on the scope and stage of the project, making the program suitable for a wide range of innovation activities, from early development to commercialization.
NRC IRAP is open to businesses in all provinces and territories and supports companies across many industries, provided they are pursuing genuine technological innovation and meet certain requirements. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis, and support is tailored to each business’s growth plans. For founders and leadership teams exploring how to accelerate innovation while managing risk, learning more about how NRC IRAP works could be a valuable next step.
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