Yesterday, on October 14, 2026, the Federal government launched the funding program to help Canadian businesses adopt AI, or develop and commercialize their AI products.
The Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative is delivered by the Federal Economic Development Agencies across Canada. While rules vary by region, the program provides 50% of the project cost as a repayable, interest-free loan.
Eligible Projects
- Adopting and integrating AI technologies into business operations to improve productivity, competitiveness, growth and resilience.
- Validating, commercializing, deploying and scaling Canadian-made AI products and services.
Eligible Costs
- Labour, 3rd Party Expertise, Machinery and Equipment, Marketing,
Training, and more
Funding
Eligible applicants can receive a repayable, interest-free government loan for up to 50% of eligible project costs.
In Southern Ontario, the minimum funding request must be $125 K.
Timeline
Application intake will be open until funding is depleted.
How to Apply?
Follow the application instructions and guidelines on your regional development agency’s website, depending on your business location in Canada.
- Southern Ontario – FedDev Ontario
- Northern Ontario – FedNor Ontario
- Quebec – CED Quebec
- Atlantic Canada – ACOA
- Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba – PrairiesCan
- British Columbia – PacifiCan (more information will be available in a few days)
- Northern Territories – CanNor
