NRC Industrial Research Assistance Program (IRAP)

IRAP provides non-repayable contributions toward R&D projects at various stages of the innovation cycle, paired with advisory support from an assigned Industrial Technology Advisor, and the NRC runs dedicated IRAP streams for clean technology, AI, and defence and dual-use technology. Eligibility is tight and clearly stated: applicants must be an incorporated, profit-oriented SME in Canada with 500 or fewer full-time-equivalent employees planning to develop and commercialise innovative technology-driven products, services or processes in Canada. Intake is rolling and begins with a phone or web enquiry; applicants who pass screening are referred to an advisor who assesses the business and may invite a formal project proposal, with assessment completed within three months. NRC does not publish award sizes or cost-share percentages, as contribution levels are negotiated project by project.