Stage 2: Development & Proof-of-Concept Funding Canada 2026
Access up to $5M in technology development and proof-of-concept funding through IRAP Technology Development, SR&ED Tax Credits, NSERC CRD, and applied research programs. Validate your innovation from prototype development through technical feasibility demonstration (TRL 4-6).
Major Stage 2: Development & Proof-of-Concept Programs
NRC's flagship program supporting Canadian SMEs developing innovative technology projects with strong commercialization potential. Provides funding and advisory services for technology validation and prototype development.
Development Activities:
- • Prototype development and testing
- • Technical feasibility validation
- • Product design and engineering
- • Process development and optimization
Program Features:
- • 60-80% of eligible project costs
- • Industrial Technology Advisor support
- • Youth employment programs
- • Access to research networks
Canada's largest federal innovation support program providing tax incentives for companies conducting eligible R&D activities, including prototype development and technical uncertainty resolution.
Eligible SR&ED Work:
- • Experimental development activities
- • Applied research projects
- • Technical problem solving
- • Prototype iteration and testing
Credit Benefits:
- • Up to 65% for CCPCs (first $3M)
- • 35% for larger corporations
- • Fully refundable for eligible CCPCs
- • Unlimited eligible expenditures
NSERC program supporting university-industry collaborative research projects that combine academic research excellence with practical industry applications and technology development.
Project Requirements:
- • University-industry partnership
- • Applied research objectives
- • Industry co-funding required
- • Technology transfer potential
Support Included:
- • Research personnel funding
- • Equipment and materials
- • Knowledge transfer support
- • Student training opportunities
Provincial innovation agencies providing funding for applied research projects, technology validation, and proof-of-concept development through industry-academic collaborations.
Program Examples:
- • OCE Voucher for Innovation & Productivity
- • Alberta Innovates Applied Research
- • Québec CRITM programs
- • BC InnovateBC programs
Funding Features:
- • Cost-share models (typically 50/50)
- • Access to research facilities
- • Technical expertise support
- • Rapid application process
What Stage 2: Development & Proof-of-Concept Covers
Stage 2 Development Funding Success Strategies
Ready to Fund Your Technology Development?
Get expert help navigating Stage 2 development and proof-of-concept funding programs. Our specialists have secured $156M+ in IRAP, SR&ED, and technology development funding.
82% success rate • $156M+ secured in IRAP and SR&ED • Expert guidance for all stages