Ontario is investing heavily in connected and autonomous vehicle innovation. Through the Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network (OVIN), the province co-invests in real-world testing, validation, and commercialization of C/AV and smart mobility technologies. If your business is developing vehicle, infrastructure, or intelligent transportation systems, OVIN’s C/AV and Smart Mobility — Stream 2 is a funding program worth considering.
OVIN’s C/AV and Smart Mobility Stream 2 helps Ontario companies showcase and bring to market connected and autonomous vehicle technologies. The program supports projects that are past early research and ready for testing, validation, or market launch.
Important facts:
Stream 2 is most relevant if you have a working prototype or a solution that is ready for pilot testing. You may need support to prove performance, safety, or scalability. The program is meant for real-world Ontario environments, not early-stage concepts.
To qualify for connected and autonomous vehicle funding in Ontario under Stream 2, your project must meet both business and project-level criteria.
OVIN Stream 2 focuses on Ontario-based innovation and teamwork. You are more likely to qualify if you meet the following:
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) often apply. Larger firms and partnerships can also qualify if their project supports Ontario’s innovation ecosystem.
Your project must fit within one or more OVIN priority areas:
Projects should aim for showcasing, validation, testing, or commercialization. Basic research is not eligible.
Location is an important rule. Eligible projects must include:
Testing your solution with Ontario fleets, municipalities, transit agencies, or infrastructure partners will strengthen your application.
OVIN uses a competitive and merit-based assessment. Reviewers look for strong technology and clear impact.
Common evaluation criteria include:
You can use GrantHub’s eligibility matcher to filter programs by province and industry. This tool is helpful if you want to compare OVIN Stream 2 with other automotive or smart mobility funding options. For ongoing updates about new C/AV grants and deadlines, GrantHub’s platform provides timely alerts and summaries for Ontario businesses.
Applying with only early-stage R&D
Stream 2 does not support concept-stage ideas. Your solution must be ready for demonstration or validation.
Weak or informal partnerships
OVIN values strong collaboration. Letters of support and clear partner roles are important.
No clear Ontario benefit
Projects tested outside Ontario or with limited local impact are unlikely to be funded.
Overestimating eligible costs
Budgets should match demonstration and commercialization activities. Avoid including unrelated internal development.
Q: What is OVIN C/AV and Smart Mobility Stream 2?
It is an Ontario government co-investment program that supports showcasing and bringing to market connected, autonomous, and smart mobility technologies. The goal is to help Ontario-made innovations reach the market.
Q: How much funding can I receive?
Eligible projects can receive up to $1,000,000 in funding. The final amount depends on project scope, costs, and partner contributions.
Q: Who can apply for OVIN Stream 2 funding?
Ontario-based companies and project consortia developing C/AV or smart mobility technologies are eligible. Collaboration with public or research partners is strongly encouraged.
Q: Do projects need to be demonstrated in Ontario?
Yes. Eligible projects must include Ontario-based testing, validation, or demonstration activities. This is a core requirement.
Q: Is OVIN funding repayable?
OVIN Stream 2 funding is typically provided as a non-repayable co-investment, subject to contribution agreements and milestones.
OVIN’s C/AV and Smart Mobility Stream 2 is a strong fit if your connected or autonomous vehicle technology is ready for real-world validation in Ontario. Make sure your project scope, partners, and demonstration plan match OVIN’s priorities.
GrantHub tracks hundreds of active grant programs across Canada, including OVIN and other automotive innovation funds. This helps you quickly check which programs fit your business profile and growth stage. For more guidance, consider exploring GrantHub’s resources to stay informed about new funding opportunities and eligibility changes.
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