How to Apply for IRAP Innovation Funding
Complete step-by-step guide to applying for Industrial Research Assistance Program innovation funding. Learn the application process, ITA engagement strategies, and how to secure up to $500K in non-repayable R&D contributions.
IRAP Innovation Funding Application Process
SME Innovation Focus
IRAP combines generous non-repayable funding with dedicated Industrial Technology Advisor (ITA) support. Unlike loans, funding doesn't require repayment and comes with expert guidance throughout your innovation journey.
Connect with ITA
Contact your local Industrial Technology Advisor to discuss project eligibility
Project Assessment
Work with ITA to assess technical feasibility and commercial potential
Develop Proposal
Prepare comprehensive project proposal with ITA guidance
Submit & Execute
Submit application and execute project with ongoing ITA support
IRAP Innovation Eligibility Requirements
Company Requirements:
- • Canadian incorporated for-profit business
- • Fewer than 500 employees worldwide
- • Financially stable with adequate cash flow
- • Demonstrated innovation capacity
- • Technology-based or innovation-focused
- • Strong commercial growth potential
Project Requirements:
- • Technology development with technical uncertainty
- • New product or service development
- • Significant process improvements
- • Pre-commercial technology validation
- • Clear competitive advantage potential
- • Export or national market focus
IRAP Innovation Funding Streams
Funding Coverage:
Salaries & Benefits: Up to 80% of costs
Contractor Services: Up to 50% of costs
Materials & Supplies: Case-by-case basis
Equipment: Limited coverage available
Travel: Project-related travel considered
Overhead: Not typically covered
Small Technology Innovation (ARP):
- • Accelerated review process
- • Proof-of-concept development
- • Commercialization preparation
- • Quick approval for smaller projects
Mid-sized Innovation Projects:
- • Comprehensive R&D project support
- • Product development and innovation
- • Process improvement initiatives
- • Technology commercialization
Industrial Technology Advisor (ITA) Engagement
Project planning and risk assessment
Commercialization and market strategies
Connections to partners and customers
Throughout project lifecycle
- Contact Early
Engage ITA before developing formal proposal
- Be Prepared
Have clear project concept and business case
- Regular Communication
Maintain ongoing dialogue throughout process
- Leverage Expertise
Use ITA's industry knowledge and network
IRAP Application Components
Clear technical objectives and innovation focus
Methodology and work plan with milestones
Technical challenges and mitigation strategies
Key personnel experience and capabilities
Target market size, competition, and positioning
Path to market and revenue projections
Detailed project budget and milestones
Capabilities, history, and financial stability
IRAP Innovation Application Success Strategies
✅ Winning Strategies
- Early and meaningful ITA engagement throughout process
- Clear demonstration of technical uncertainty and innovation
- Strong commercialization plan with realistic market analysis
- Qualified team with relevant technical and business experience
❌ Common Pitfalls
- Late ITA contact or inadequate relationship building
- Weak technical content or insufficient innovation focus
- Poor market analysis or unrealistic commercialization timeline
- Inadequate budget justification or timeline planning
Official IRAP Resources
NRC-IRAP
Official IRAP program website
ITA Directory
Find your local Industrial Technology Advisor
Youth Employment
Graduate placement program details
IRAP Assessment
Free eligibility review and project assessment
ITA Connection
Help connecting with right ITA in your region
Application Support
Professional IRAP application development
Get Your Free IRAP Innovation Application Kit
Download our comprehensive IRAP innovation application guide with project planning templates, ITA engagement strategies, and successful application examples.
Request Application GuideReady to Apply for IRAP Innovation Funding?
Our R&D funding specialists understand the IRAP process and can help you connect with the right ITA, develop compelling proposals, and maximize your chances of securing up to $500K in funding.