IP ASSIST PROGRAM is a tiered program targeting SMEs who qualify for support from the Industrial Research Assistance Program (IRAP). This program offers these SMEs access to IP education, and services related to planning and action with respect to their IP. The funding available for each of the planning stage and the action stage can range from $18,000+. Although the funds from the IP Assist Program are not intended to cover IP filing and prosecution fees, this program has removed barriers to IP protection for many Canadian SMEs, and encourages IP-focused discussions to take place.
IP ONTARIO (IPON) offers support to Ontario-based companies, including subsidizing costs relating to IP protection and commercialization services. This program focuses on priority technology sectors, including medical, life sciences, automotive, artificial intelligence, mining and advanced manufacturing.
ELEVATE IP is a federal program that enables companies at all stages of their IP development to access fundamental IP services – whether it is to learn about IP, begin the development of an IP strategy, or to implement an IP strategy. The funding available to a company for developing the IP strategy and/or implementing the IP strategy can range from $25,000 to $100,000.
CANEXPORT INNOVATION offers funding to applicants looking to expand their business with a foreign R&D partner. The funding is up to $75,000 and can cover up to 75% of costs to pursue and sign collaborative R&D agreements with the foreign partner. This program covers the costs related to IP protection in international markets.
Note that it is possible to be eligible for more than one of these funding programs as long as one activity is not covered by more than one program. Bereskin & Parr professionals can guide you through the application process, as well as discuss ways structure the funding you may obtain between these programs.
Bereskin & Parr is an approved service provider for IP Assist, IPON and Elevate IP. For more information, please reach out to a Bereskin & Parr professional. Click here to learn more about our team.