Innovation for Defence Excellence and Security (IDEaS)
Highlights
This program is designed for businesses like yours, offering a unique chance to advance your technology and innovation. Why is this program for you? It provides substantial funding to help you solve defence and security challenges, with opportunities to receive feedback from military experts and expand your network.
What You Get
- Up to $1.2M in phased development funding through Competitive Projects
- Up to $3M to stimulate innovation via Innovation Networks
- Opportunities to compete in Contests, fostering the best solutions
- Access to Sandboxes, where experts test your technology
- Test Drives by the Department of National Defence to evaluate your tech
What’s in it for you? This program offers more than just financing; it provides a platform to propel your technology forward, gain valuable insights, and connect with key stakeholders. The funding mechanisms are designed to be more flexible and supportive than traditional financing options, making it easier for you to qualify and succeed.
Financing Details
Type of Financing:
The program offers phased development funding and network stimulation grants.
Repayment Terms and Interest Rates:
- Phased Development Funding: Up to $1.2 million. This funding is non-repayable as it is a grant.
- Network Stimulation Grants: Up to $3 million. This funding is also non-repayable.
Eligible Expenses:
- Research and development costs.
- Prototyping and testing.
- Personnel costs directly related to the project.
- Equipment and materials necessary for the project.
- Travel expenses for project-related activities.
- Overhead costs directly attributable to the project.
Ineligible Expenses:
- General operational costs not directly related to the project.
- Marketing and sales expenses.
- Debt servicing or repayment.
- Any expenses incurred before the project start date.
Fees:
There are no fees associated with applying for or receiving this funding.
Qualifications
- Must be a Canadian innovator.
- Business must focus on solving defence and security challenges.
Must be able to participate in competitive projects, innovation networks, contests, sandboxes, or test drives.
Disqualifications:
- None specified in the provided context.
Description
The IDEaS program offers a unique opportunity for your business to contribute to national defence and security. You can receive up to $1.2 million in phased development funding to advance your technology. This funding helps you push your innovative ideas forward, bringing them closer to market.
Additionally, you can access up to $3 million through Innovation Networks. This funding supports the free exchange of ideas, which is crucial for developing groundbreaking solutions. You can also participate in contests, sandboxes, and test drives, where your technology is tested and evaluated by military experts.
This program not only provides significant financial support but also offers valuable feedback and networking opportunities. Your business will benefit from expert insights and connections within the defence sector, helping you refine your technology and increase its potential for success.
Program Steps
Visit the IDEaS Website: Go to the official IDEaS program website to access the application portal and gather detailed information about the program.
Select the Appropriate Funding Mechanism: Choose the funding mechanism that best suits your business needs. Options include Competitive Projects, Innovation Networks, Contests, Sandboxes, and Test Drives.
Prepare Required Documentation: Gather and prepare the necessary documents for your application. These typically include:
- Business Plan
- Financial Statements
- Project Proposal
- Technical Specifications
- Team Resumes
- Proof of Canadian Citizenship or Permanent Residency
Register Your Business: Create an account on the IDEaS application portal and register your business. Ensure all business details are accurate and up-to-date.
Complete the Application Form: Fill out the online application form with detailed information about your project, including objectives, methodology, expected outcomes, and budget.
Submit Supporting Documents: Upload all required documentation to the application portal. Ensure each document is clearly labeled and meets the specified format requirements.
Review and Submit Application: Carefully review your application for completeness and accuracy. Once satisfied, submit your application through the portal.
Monitor Application Status: After submission, monitor the status of your application through the IDEaS portal. Respond promptly to any requests for additional information or clarification.
Participate in Follow-Up Activities: If selected, participate in any follow-up activities such as interviews, presentations, or additional documentation requests as required by the IDEaS program.
Await Decision: Wait for the official decision from the IDEaS program. If approved, follow the provided instructions to proceed with the funding and project implementation.