How Canadian Businesses Can Secure Research Grants with Mitacs to Fund Innovation

In today’s fast-paced business landscape, Canadian companies are continuously seeking ways to stay ahead through research, development, and innovation. However, accessing the right funding to support these initiatives can be challenging. This is where Mitacs, a national non-profit organization, plays a critical role in bridging the gap between academia and industry, helping businesses access top-tier research talent and secure funding for innovation projects.

Why Research Funding Matters for Businesses

Innovation is the key to maintaining a competitive edge, but conducting research and development (R&D) can be costly. Research grants provide businesses with financial support to:

• Develop and commercialize new technologies.
• Gain insights from leading academic researchers.
• Improve product development processes.
• Reduce costs and risks associated with R&D.
• Access skilled research talent to drive innovation forward.

What is Mitacs and How Does It Help?

Mitacs is a federally and provincially funded organization that connects businesses with researchers from post-secondary institutions in Canada and internationally. Through co-funded research collaborations, Mitacs helps companies tackle business challenges, develop cutting-edge solutions, and gain a competitive advantage in their industry.

Mitacs Accelerate

Funding for R&D projects through industry-academic partnerships.

Mitacs Business Strategy Internship (BSI)

Short-term funding for business-focused research projects.

Mitacs Accelerate Entrepreneur

Dedicated funding for student and postdoc-led start-ups, supporting R&D projects that bridge academic research and entrepreneurial growth.

Step-by-Step Guide to Securing Mitacs Funding

Step 1: Identify Business Challenges That Require Research Support

Before applying for funding, companies should assess their R&D needs and define project goals. Mitacs supports research in a wide range of sectors, including AI, life sciences, advanced manufacturing, quantum technologies, climate solutions, and more.

Step 2: Find the Right Academic Partner

Mitacs connects businesses with top researchers, faculty members, and graduate students from Canadian universities and colleges. Companies can leverage Mitacs’ network or collaborate with an existing academic partner.

Step 3: Choose the Right Mitacs Program

Each Mitacs program caters to different business needs:

• For product development and innovation: Mitacs Accelerate.
• For business strategy research & problem-solving: Mitacs BSI.
• For start-ups expanding internationally: Mitacs Entrepreneur International.

Step 4: Submit a Proposal

Once the right program and academic partner are identified, businesses work with researchers to draft a proposal. The proposal should clearly outline:

• Project objectives.
• Expected outcomes and benefits.
• Research methodology.
• Budget breakdown and funding requirements.
• Timeline and milestones.

Step 5: Access Funding and Launch the Project

After approval, businesses receive co-funding from Mitacs to support research salaries, equipment, and other project costs. Projects typically begin within a few weeks of approval, allowing companies to rapidly integrate research into their business strategy.

Success Stories: Businesses Driving Innovation with Mitacs Funding

AI Startups

Collaborating with university researchers to develop machine-learning models for automation and predictive analytics. For example, Mitacs partnered with AltaML, an Edmonton-based AI company, to develop machine learning models that optimize business decision-making and automation solutions.

Life Sciences Companies

Partnering with researchers to advance drug development and medical device innovation. For instance, Aspect Biosystems, a Vancouver-based biotech firm, leveraged Mitacs funding to advance 3D bioprinting technologies for regenerative medicine, working closely with researchers at the University of British Columbia.

Manufacturing Firms

Improving industrial processes and material engineering through academic research. Mitacs partnered with Linamar, a global leader in manufacturing solutions, to develop advanced robotics and automation technologies in collaboration with the University of Waterloo, driving efficiency in industrial production.

CleanTech & Sustainability Leaders

Developing innovative solutions for energy efficiency and climate resilience. Mitacs worked with CarbonCure Technologies, a Halifax-based company, to develop carbon capture and storage solutions in collaboration with researchers at Dalhousie University, helping reduce emissions in the construction industry.

Why Choose Mitacs for Research Funding?

• Cost-Effective: Mitacs provides co-funding, reducing the financial burden of R&D.
• Access to Top Talent: Work with Canada’s leading researchers, postdocs, and graduate students.
• Industry-Aligned Innovation: Funding is tailored to solve real-world business challenges.
• Fast and Flexible: The application process is streamlined, ensuring businesses receive support quickly.

Get Started with Mitacs Today

If your company is looking to secure funding for research and innovation, Mitacs can help. Whether you’re developing new technology, exploring market-driven research, or strengthening your R&D capabilities, Mitacs offers the funding and expertise you need.

Ready to secure research funding for your business and unlock new opportunities in R&D?