We are excited to inform you that the Critical Industrial Technologies (CIT) initiative is now open for applications. Through the initiative Ontario industry will converge with innovative SMEs to amplify Ontario’s rich critical technology capabilities and propel four key sectors of Ontario’s economy to the forefront of this transformation.
The initiative is committed to achieving the following 4 goals:
- Building an Ontario critical technology ecosystem that propels Ontario’s mining, advanced manufacturing, construction, and agri-food sectors forward to be leaders in the global economy.
- Supporting critical technology education and awareness to help SMEs understand the benefits of creating, commercializing, and adopting critical technologies.
- Accelerating the growth of Ontario companies through the development and commercialization of Made-in-Ontario technologies and expanding critical technology talent.
- Fueling significant advances within and between the four sectors by supporting the adoption, demonstration and integration of critical technologies.
Eligible Critical Technologies:
- 5G & advanced networks
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Block chain
- Robotics
- Cybersecurity
- Quantum
Programs:
1. Development and Commercialization Program (DC)
Eligible SMEs can access a Technology Development Site to integrate, develop, test, and showcase their critical technologies solution.
Amount:
Reimbursement of 50% of total eligible project costs, up to a maximum of $200 K, with a minimum of $50 K.
2. Technology Access Program (TA)
Eligible SMEs can access a Technology Development Site to integrate, develop, test, and showcase their critical technologies solution.
3. Sector Adoption Program (SA)
Sector Adoption Program supports a consortium of partners working together to address a set challenge statement and catalyze impactful change for the whole sector.
Amount:
Reimbursement of 33.33% of total eligible project costs.
4. Talent Development Program (TD)
Eligible SMEs can invest in critical technology training and support for employees.
Steam 1: Internships for new, young talent creating the workforce of tomorrow
Stream 2: Upskilling/reskilling existing employees for the challenges of today
Amount:
$10 K per unit (fixed 4-month period) for eligible project costs, up to maximum of $20 K (two units – fixed 8-month period).
5. Future Ready Program (FR)
Expert support for eligible SMEs to adopt new critical technologies through upskilling/reskilling staff.
Amount:
Reimbursement of 50% of total eligible project costs, up to a maximum of $10 K.