Applying for federal clean tech funding: A toolkit

Funding programs are designed to support different types of clean tech projects and initiatives that contribute to achieving specific objectives. To be considered for funding through a clean tech program, your project must meet the eligibility criteria set out in the program's application guide. Applications that do not meet eligibility criteria will not be considered.

Project eligibility criteria can include:

• project objectives and anticipated innovation, economic, social and/or environmental benefits (e.g. job creation, diversity and inclusion, greenhouse gas emission reduction)
• relevance to specific sectors or technology areas (e.g. electric vehicles, oil and gas)
• project location
• technology readiness level (TRL)
  • Use the Technology Readiness Level Assessment Tool to help you identify your project's TRL
• particular activities (e.g. applied research and development, technology transfer activities)

Funding programs may also be designed for specific types of applicants, which might include individuals, organizations (e.g. businesses, charities, research institutions) and/or levels of government (Indigenous, municipal, provincial, territorial). Individuals or organizations applying for funding may need to be affiliated or partnered with a post-secondary institution, business, municipality or other non-governmental organization. If so, the program will usually specify eligibility criteria for the affiliated institution and/or partner organization.

Applicant eligibility criteria may also include company location, size and stage of growth. Be sure to establish partnerships early in the project-planning process, including the roles and responsibilities of each partner. If you don't meet a program's eligibility criteria as an individual or organization, consider whether there are any opportunities for you to partner with an organization or level of government that does meet the eligibility criteria.

Maximum funding amount

The maximum amount of funding that a project could receive through a program will be stated in the application guide. However, the funding allocation among selected projects may be determined based on merit and need, and you may not receive the maximum amount available.

Certain programs also have minimum and maximum funding levels, meaning they will only fund projects requiring funding within a certain funding range.

Eligible costs

Contributions come with conditions, including the condition that the funding can only be used to support eligible costs, which could include costs for salaries, overhead, patents and equipment, etc. Programs may also set funding limits for particular categories of eligible costs. Eligible and ineligible costs vary from one program to another and are identified in program application guides.

There are not usually restrictions on how you can use grant money to fund your project's activities. However, you usually cannot use grant funding to pay for expenses that took place before your project start date (such as, contingency fees to a professional grant writer).

Be sure to read application guides carefully and note any eligible and ineligible costs for both grants and contributions. You may use funds only as prescribed in the funding agreement, and be aware that your project finances may be audited.

Cost-sharing obligations

Many funding programs have cost-sharing obligations, which means the funding recipient must contribute a portion of the project's eligible costs (expressed as a percentage).

For example, a contribution program may agree to fund 60% of eligible project costs, up to a defined limit. The recipient would need to fund the remaining 40% of the eligible project costs using funding from their own resources or from other sources. The recipient would also be responsible for finding funding for eligible costs exceeding the defined limit and costs deemed ineligible under the funding agreement.

Stacking limits

Some funding programs may permit "stacking" of funding by multiple government funding programs (federal, provincial, territorial, municipal). This means that it may be possible to receive funding from more than one program to support different aspects of a project. However, a program may have a "stacking limit" – a maximum amount of total government funding (federal, provincial, territorial, municipal) that a recipient may receive for any one activity, initiative or project.

Basis of payment

The type of funding (grant or contribution) offered by a program will affect the basis of funding payments (when payments will be made and in what amounts, and any conditions that must be satisfied to receive payments). The application guide should indicate whether the funding is a grant or a contribution, but the details of a payment arrangement will be project-specific and set out in the recipient's funding agreement.

Grant funding is typically paid as a lump sum or in installments, according to a payment schedule that will be set out in the funding agreement.

Contribution payments may be paid based on one, or a combination of the following:

• achievement of predetermined performance expectations or milestones
• reimbursement of eligible costs
• a costing formula

Contributions are usually paid as reimbursements to a recipient for eligible costs incurred in completing the project. In these cases, recipients must submit financial and progress reports according to the funding agreement, which must be approved by the program before they can receive reimbursement payments from a funding program. These arrangements require applicants to have enough cash flow to fund their activities in their entirety prior to being reimbursed.

Advance payments are sometimes available if needed to achieve project objectives. Some funding programs may provide for advance payments in the funding agreement, based on recipients' cash-flow requirements.

Usually, you will only be reimbursed for eligible expenses incurred after entering into a contribution agreement with a funding department. However, in some cases, a program may reimburse eligible recipients for eligible expenses incurred before the project start date. The program's application guide will state whether the program allows for this possibility and will also describe the nature of expenses that may qualify for retroactive reimbursement. Even if a program allows for retroactive reimbursements, they are not guaranteed to you, so if you rely on this possibility before entering into a funding agreement, you will be doing so at your own risk.

Ability to fund total project costs

You will be asked to indicate that you have, or have conditionally secured, sufficient funding to support your project's total costs (eligible and ineligible). Consider your funding needs as well as all sources of funding available to you to support your clean tech project:

• Will you have enough funding to cover total project costs, taking into account all sources of government and non-government funding available to you, considering the permitted uses of funding and any stacking limits set by the program?
• Will you be able to meet the program's cost-sharing obligations?

In some cases, the more funding you can contribute to the project from non-government sources, the stronger your application will be.

It's a good idea to secure any non-governmental sources of funding early in the application process.

Timelines

Consider whether your project timeline aligns with the funding program's timeline, including:

• the application intake period
• the review and decision-making timeline
• project duration requirements
• the timeframe in which projects must be completed

Funding programs do not generally support expenses incurred before or after the end of the funding period set out in a contribution agreement, so it's important to set your timelines and plan your project activities accordingly.

You're not guaranteed funding through a funding program, even if your project meets the program's eligibility criteria. The degree to which your project's objectives and expected outcomes align with the funding program's stated objectives, priorities and expected outcomes is a very important consideration during project selection. This is because federal departments use funding programs to advance departmental objectives that reflect Canada's priorities and interests. The program's objectives, priority areas and expected outcomes will be program specific and found in the program's application guide. These can relate to innovation, technology advancement, job creation, regional economic development, environmental benefits and the promotion of equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI).

The more clearly you can articulate how your eligible project advances the program's objectives, the more competitive your project proposal will be. While a program's priority area(s) may change from time-to-time, it can be helpful to read the published descriptions of past and current projects funded by programs of interest to you. This may give you an idea of the types of projects that are typically supported by the program and help you assess your project's eligibility and competitiveness.

In most cases, it will be important to consider your intellectual property (IP) strategy as you plan your project and develop your project funding strategy.

Intellectual property can help you secure Government funding

Funding programs want to support projects that are likely to succeed. The presence of IP assets often shows funding programs that your company has a certain degree of market exclusivity or competitive advantage and that it has a higher likelihood of success. Before you start applying to funding programs, consider developing a sound IP strategy as part of your business plan and taking steps to secure rights to existing IP that you will need to complete your project and benefit from its results.

Background intellectual property and freedom to operate

"Background IP" is pre-existing IP that you can use during the course of your project. It may be as part of new IP that you create (called "foreground IP"). Owners of protected IP may take legal action against those who infringe on their rights, so it's extremely important to perform IP due diligence to ensure that you have freedom to operate. If you plan to use someone else's protected IP in the course of your project (including as part of new IP that you create), you must secure the appropriate rights through a formal contractual arrangement with the owner of that IP. Be aware that most funding programs will require you to agree to indemnify the Government if anyone sues you for IP infringement or royalties related to your project.

Foreground intellectual property

"Foreground IP" is IP you develop as part of your Government-funded project. Another important consideration as you search for federal funding opportunities is funding program policies on ownership of foreground IP that may result from projects funded through those programs. The Government believes that commercial exploitation of IP contributes to economic growth and job creation, and that such exploitation is best achieved by the private sector. Therefore, the Government's default position is to allow funding recipients to own the rights to foreground IP. This said, the Government might require a recipient to grant the Government a license to rights in foreground IP. The application guide will typically state whether the Government or the funding recipient will own foreground IP, as well as any license-back obligations to this IP and any relevant background IP.

Consider the IP implications of the funding program's IP policy for your organization's IP strategy and your obligations to any third parties, including your financing partners. You are strongly encouraged to negotiate contractual agreements with your project collaborators that outline the ownership and management of IP generated through your project.

As part of your IP strategy, also consider how you will protect any foreground IP that results from your project's activities. In most cases, it will be your responsibility to take appropriate steps to protect IP that results from your project. You may be required to provide the funding department with information regarding your IP strategy as it relates to your project's activities.

Time

Planning your project and preparing a quality funding application is time-consuming.

Programs fund projects that are likely to succeed and it is your responsibility to provide information in your application to demonstrate that your project is deserving of a program's funding.

Your application should show that you have a clearly-defined, comprehensive project proposal that meets the program's eligibility criteria and aligns with the program's objectives.

• Get tips for writing funding applications

You must also show that you are essentially project-ready, meaning that you will be able to implement your project according to the timelines you set out in your application. This means that by the time you submit your application, key elements are in order, such as any necessary permits, intellectual property rights, partnership agreements, etc.

You'll also need to gather any supplementary documents required by programs, such as financial statements and letters of support.

All of this takes time. Before starting an application, consider whether you have the time and resources you need to plan your project and prepare a strong application by relevant application deadlines. Most programs will not accept project proposals submitted after applications deadlines.

Repayment obligations

Grants are non-repayable, whereas contributions may be non-repayable or repayable (in whole or in part). Consider whether you will be able to meet any repayment obligations attached to a contribution (these will be stated in the application guide).

A repayable contribution is funding you will be expected to repay at some point. A repayable contribution may be conditionally repayable or unconditionally repayable.

• Conditionally repayable contributions are repayable only when certain conditions are met. For example, repayments may be based on your project's revenue, meaning you would be expected to repay the contribution only when certain financial criteria have been met (e.g. once you have achieved a certain income threshold or profit margin). The specific conditions that will trigger your repayment obligations will be specified in your contribution agreement.
• Unconditionally repayable contributions must be repaid, regardless of your project's outcomes, according to the repayment schedule set out in your contribution agreement.

Note that contribution repayments, when due, are considered debt you owe to the Government and you may be charged interest on late repayments.

Reporting obligations

As a recipient of a grant or contribution, you will be required to submit reports to the funding program to show that you are completing your project according to the terms of your funding agreement.

Typically, reporting on grants is limited to information necessary to confirm your ongoing eligibility for grant funding. You may also be required to report on results achieved using the funding.

Contributions usually come with more reporting obligations than grants. As a recipient of a contribution, you must submit progress reports and detailed financial reports showing how you used the funding. Since contribution funds are usually issued on a reimbursement basis, the payments you receive for your eligible expenses will be given after the receipt and approval of your progress and financial reports.

Reporting obligations may extend beyond the lifetime of your project (sometimes for years). Many programs require recipients to report on additional work or follow-up activities related to their projects, as well as updates on project outcomes.

This glossary explains some of the terms that you may come across as you search and apply for federal clean tech funding.

A

activity

Project activities are the tasks described in your project's work plan that must be completed to achieve your project's objectives.

Related: eligible activity, project objective, work plan

advance payment

Often, contribution payments are made on a retroactive basis, which means that you are reimbursed by the program for eligible expenses you already incurred. Often, you must meet certain progress milestones agreed-to in your funding agreement in order to receive your next payment. Advance payments are contribution payments made to you based on your cash-flow needs before you have met the performance obligations that would justify issuing your next payment.

Related: basis of payment, milestone, reporting requirements

applicant

An applicant is an individual, organization or government that has applied or is applying for federal funding.

Related: proponent, recipient

applicant guide

A program's applicant guide provides guidance and official instructions on applying for funding from that program. A program's applicant guide describes the program's:

• objectives
• funding
• eligibility criteria
• project selection criteria
• how to submit an application
• other program-specific information

We refer to an applicant guide as an "application guide" in this toolkit.

application

A complete funding application includes all of the forms and supporting documentation that you must submit to a program to be considered for the program's funding. "Application" is often used interchangeably with the term "project proposal".

• Get tips for writing your application

Related: applicant guide, program, project

application guide

Refer to applicant guide.

audit

An audit is an independent assessment of a funding recipient's project that is conducted to provide assurance to a funding program that the recipient is meeting the terms and conditions in their funding agreement. An audit may address any of the recipient's financial and non-financial obligations under the agreement.

Related: funding agreement, reporting requirements

back to top of glossary

B

background intellectual property

Background intellectual property (IP) is IP that you, or your project collaborators or partners, own or have licensed before your project's start date that is necessary to complete your project and/or exploit any IP created during your project.

• Intellectual property 101
• Plan your IP strategy

Related: foreground intellectual property, intellectual property

basis of payment

The basis of payment for a grant or contribution describes how often and under what conditions you will receive your funding payments, and in what amounts. These terms will be set out in your funding agreement.

Related: advance payment, funding agreement, holdback, milestone payment, reimbursement

benefits

Benefits are advantages that a project will or is anticipated to provide to Canada and Canadians.

economic benefits

Economic benefits relate to increased economic activity. For example, job creation and/or retention, impact in sales such as growth or market diversification, commercialization of project results.

innovation benefits

Innovation benefits relate to technological advancements. For example, creation of intellectual property, improvement of the commercialization potential of a product or technology by advancing it to a higher technology readiness level, or potential market disruption.

social benefits

Social benefits relate to the public at large. For example, environmental improvements, increased local community involvement, increased gender balance in the workforce.

Related: equity, diversity and inclusion; outcome; technology readiness level

budget

Your project budget is a financial plan that includes a detailed breakdown of costs that are expected to be incurred in completing your project and the sources of funding to be used for those costs. The program will use your budget and financial statements to assess the financial viability of your proposed project.

business

A business is economic activity carried out with the expectation of making profit.

Related: applicant, corporation

business number (BN)

A BN is a unique nine-digit business identifier issued by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) to an organization.

• Register your business with the CRA

business plan

A business plan for a project is a written document that describes your project's objectives and how those objectives will be achieved. While project business plans vary in length and scope, most address the following points:

• project rationale and objectives
• technical project information
• key project personnel
• risk and mitigation measures
• financial statements and forecasts
• other relevant information

Learn more about business plans

back to top of glossary

C

calendar year

A calendar year is a period of twelve months that begins on January 1 and ends on December 31.

Related: fiscal year

call for proposals (CFP)

A call for proposals (CFP) is a formal announcement of funding available through a particular federal program that invites the public to submit funding requests and proposals for projects that meet specific criteria set out in the CFP. May also be referred to as a "request for proposals (RFP)".

Related: application, applicant guide, funding program

cash flow

Cash flow is the money that moves in and out of your organization over a defined period of time.

Related: advance payment, financial statement

clean technology (clean tech)

Clean tech refers to any process, good, or service that reduces environmental impacts through any of the following:

• Environmental protection activities that prevent, reduce, or eliminate pollution or any other degradation of the environment
• Resource management activities that result in the more efficient use of natural resources, thus safeguarding against their depletion
• The use of goods that have been adapted to be significantly less energy or resource intensive than the industry standard

climate change adaptation

Adapting to climate change involves anticipating the adverse effects of climate change and taking appropriate action to prevent or minimize them. It can also include taking advantage of opportunities that may arise as a result of climate change. Adaptation can include changes in behaviour, technology, institutions, policies, and other aspects of human systems.

Related: climate change mitigation

climate change mitigation

Climate change mitigation involves efforts to reduce or prevent emission of greenhouse gases, or to enhance carbon sinks. Mitigation can mean planting trees, using renewable energies, making older equipment more energy efficient, or changing management practices or consumer behavior. It can be as complex as a plan for a new city or as a simple as improvements to a cook stove design.

Related: climate change adaptation

conditionally repayable contribution

A conditionally repayable contribution is funding that you must repay to the Government when your project achieves certain success outcomes or milestones. Your specific repayment conditions will be agreed upon and set out in your contribution agreement.

Related: contribution, non-repayable contribution, repayable contribution, unconditionally repayable contribution

contribution

A contribution is conditional funding from the federal government to an individual, organization or other level of government to reimburse some portion of the costs incurred in carrying out a project that the Government has agreed to support. You must account for the use of contribution funds you receive and report back to the program on project results achieved with their use. A contribution may be non-repayable, repayable or conditionally repayable.

Related: grant, reimbursement, transfer payment

contribution agreement

A contribution agreement is a funding agreement between you and the Government that sets out both of your obligations with respect to contribution funding provided to your project through a federal funding program.

Related: funding agreement

corporation

A corporation is a legal entity created when one or more entrepreneurs register a business with a provincial or federal government through articles of incorporation. The law treats the corporation as a person that can sue and be sued. The corporation is distinct from the individuals who own it (shareholders).

Many programs require applicants to be legally incorporated in Canada.

Related: business number, incorporation

cost-share

Often program funding is only available to cover a certain percentage of your project's total eligible costs, up to a specified amount. That funding comes with cost-sharing obligations, which means that you will be responsible for covering the percentage of eligible costs not covered by the program. Some programs may permit you to fulfill your cost-share obligations with in-kind contributions.

Related: eligible costs, in-kind contribution

back to top of glossary

D

due diligence

Programs perform due diligence evaluations of project proposals as part of their decision-making processes to validate the information provided in applications, and to assess the capacity of applicants to implement their proposed projects, achieve project objectives, and fulfill repayment obligations (if applicable). Factors taken into consideration may include the managerial, technical and workforce capabilities; technical feasibility; and financial and market risk.

duty to consult

The Government of Canada has a legal duty to consult with Indigenous peoples, and where appropriate to accommodate them, when Canada is contemplating funding a project that may negatively impact on existing or potential Aboriginal or treaty rights. This is true whether those rights have been established (proven in court or agreed to in treaties) or whether there is potential for those rights to exist.

The Government is responsible for understanding how and when project funding could have an adverse impact on Aboriginal and treaty rights. When applicable, the Government will consult prior to providing funding to a recipient.

• Learn more about Canada's duty to consult Indigenous Peoples

Related: impact assessment

back to top of glossary

E

eligible activity

An eligible activity is an activity that is required to complete a project and that is eligible for funding through a funding program.

Related: activity

eligible applicant

An applicant is eligible for funding if they satisfy all of the mandatory eligibility criteria set out in the program's application guide.

Related: applicant, eligibility criteria

eligible costs

Eligible costs are project costs to which funding from a program may be applied. They are program-specific and will be set out in program application guides and in your funding agreement. May be referred to alternatively as "eligible expenses", "allowable costs" or "allowable expenses".

Related: total project costs

eligibility criteria

Eligibility criteria are the set of requirements set by a funding program that you and your project must fulfill in order for the program to consider your project proposal for funding. Eligibility criteria differ from one program to another and are found in a program's application guide. Meeting a program's eligibility criteria does not guarantee that the program will approve your project for funding.

Related: applicant guide, eligible applicant, eligible project

eligible project

A project is eligible for funding through a program if it satisfies all of the mandatory eligibility criteria set out in the program's application guide.

Related: eligibility criteria, project

equity, diversity and inclusion

equity

Equity is the removal of systemic barriers and biases enabling all individuals to have equal opportunity to access and benefit from the program.

diversity

Diversity is differences in race, colour, place of origin, religion, immigrant and newcomer status, ethnic origin, ability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and age.

inclusion

Inclusion is the practice of ensuring that all individuals are valued and respected for their contributions and are equally supported.

Related: benefits

back to top of glossary

F

fair market value

Fair market value refers to the highest dollar value that goods or services would sell for in an open and unrestricted market, where both the buyer and seller are willing participants in the transaction, have all of the facts and are acting independently of one another.

Related: in-kind contribution

financial statement

Financial statements are documents showing a business's or other organization's financial situation. A complete set of financial statements includes an income statement, a balance sheet, a statement of changes in financial position and a statement of retained earnings.

• Learn more about financial statements

fiscal period / year

A professional's or business's fiscal period (fiscal year) is generally a twelve-month period for reporting on income-earning activities. It may or may not match the calendar year. The federal government's fiscal year runs from April 1st in one year to March 31st of the following year.

Related: calendar year

foreground intellectual property (IP)

Foreground IP is IP created in the performance of a project. Your funding agreement will state who will own the rights to foreground IP resulting from your project.

• Intellectual property 101
• Plan your IP strategy

Related: intellectual property, background intellectual property

funding agreement

A funding agreement is a legally binding agreement between you and a funding department that sets out the responsibilities and obligations of both parties with respect to funding provided to your project through the funding department's program.

A funding agreement usually has two parts: (1) standard clauses that cannot be changed and (2) appendices with project-specific information and terms, such as:

• a description of the project and its objectives
• the project workplan
• the project budget

Related: budget, work plan

funding department

In this toolkit, a funding department refers to a department or agency of the Government of Canada that administers one or more federal funding programs.

Related: funding program, transfer payment

funding program

Government funding programs provide financial support to eligible projects and initiatives to advance specific federal policy objectives that the programs were designed to achieve.

Related: funding department, request for proposals

back to top of glossary

G

Government

In this toolkit, "Government" refers to the federal Government of Canada, unless stated otherwise.

grant

A grant is an unconditional transfer payment that the Government provides to individuals, organizations or other levels of government to fund projects that meet eligibility criteria set by a funding program. Grants may be subject to project progress and performance reporting obligations. You do not have to pay grant funding back to the Government.

Related: transfer payment

grant agreement

A grant agreement is a funding agreement between you and the Government that sets out both of your obligations with respect to grant funding provided to your project through a federal funding program.

Related: funding agreement

back to top of glossary

H

holdback

A holdback is a percentage of a recipient's funding that a program may, if permitted by the funding agreement, temporarily withhold to avoid overpayments to the recipient and to ensure that the recipient carries out their project according to the terms and conditions of their funding agreement. A holdback is usually released to the recipient once the recipient has submitted all required final reports and deliverables to the funding program.

Related: funding agreement

back to top of glossary

I

impact assessment

An impact assessment is a process for identifying, predicting and evaluating the environmental, health, social and economic impacts of development proposals before allowing them to proceed. It includes opportunities for public engagement as well as Indigenous engagement, reconciliation and partnership.

• Learn more about impact assessments

Related: duty to consult

incorporation

Incorporation is the act of establishing a corporation under the provincial or federal law by filing the required documents.

• Learn more about incorporating and registering your business or organization with the government

Related: business number, corporation

indicator

Refer to performance indicator.

in-kind contribution

In-kind contributions are non-monetary goods or services that you or your partner(s) contribute to your project. They are valued at fair market value.

Related: cost-share, fair market value

innovation

Innovation may include any of the following:

• an invention, new technology or new process that is not currently available in the marketplace
• significant modifications to the application of existing technologies/process that are applied in a setting or condition for which current applications are not possible or feasible
• an improvement to an existing technology/process that represents a significant (usually patentable) improvement in functionality, cost or performance of goods and services that are considered state of the art or the current industry best practice

intellectual property (IP)

IP refers to creative efforts that can be protected through trademark, patent, plant breeders' rights, copyright, industrial design or integrated circuit typography. IP may also refer to know-how and trade secrets.

• Learn more about IP

Related: background intellectual property, foreground intellectual property

installment

Installments are partial payments of your grant issued to you periodically according to the payment schedule set out in your grant agreement.

Related: lump-sum payment

intake period

A program's intake is the period of time during which it accepts project proposals. Intake periods may have a set end date or be open ended, closing only when all of the program's funding has been allocated to projects.

back to top of glossary

J

K

key personnel

Your project's key personnel are the individuals directly involved in your project and essential to its progress.

back to top of glossary

L

lead applicant

The lead applicant is the individual or entity responsible for submitting the funding application.

Related: applicant, application

lump-sum payment

A lump sum is funding paid as a single payment instead of in instalments paid over a period of time.

Related: installment

back to top of glossary

M

milestone

Refer to project milestone.

milestone payment

Contributions are often paid out retroactively, meaning that you will submit a claim to the program for eligible project expenses you already incurred and the program will then reimburse you for those expenses. Usually, milestone-based payment arrangements require that you submit documentation to the program that shows you have met specified performance milestones in order to receive your next contribution payment. A payment schedule would be set out in your contribution agreement.

Related: basis of payment, contribution, project milestone

back to top of glossary

N

net-zero emissions

Canada is committed to reaching net zero greenhouse gas emissions. Net zero does not mean zero emissions. Emissions will still be produced in a net zero world, but they will be offset by the removal of emissions already in the atmosphere. 

non-repayable contribution

A non-repayable contribution is a contribution that you do not need to repay to the Government, provided that you comply with the terms and conditions specified in your contribution agreement.

Related: contribution, contribution agreement, repayable contribution

North American Industry Classification System (NAICS)

The NAICS is an industry classification system developed by the statistical agencies of Canada, Mexico and the United States. It provides common industry definitions and a common conceptual framework to facilitate economic analysis.

NAICS has a numerical and hierarchical structure that divides the economy into 20 sectors, which are further divided into subsectors, industry groups and industries based on different economic activities in which businesses engage. You may be asked to identify your organization's six-digit NAICS code in your funding applications.

• Learn more about the NAICS

back to top of glossary

O

objective

An objective is a high-level, enduring benefit that a program or project aims to achieve.

Related: program objective, project objective

outcome

Outcomes are the changes or impacts that result or are anticipated to result from your project. Examples: lowered unemployment rate, health improvement for a targeted group, increased industrial activities or productivity, enhanced foreign trade. Outcomes should be specific and measurable. They are critical factors in determining the success of your project.

Related: performance measurement, performance indicator

output

Outputs are the products or services produced directly through project activities and delivered to a target group or population. Examples: new jobs created, shelters for homeless, research reports, seminars, direct support to social or economic activities.

back to top of glossary

P

partner

A project partner is an organization or individual who will contribute cash and/or in-kind resources to your project according to terms negotiated between yourself and that organization or individual.

partnership (business)

A partnership is an unincorporated business established by two or more owners.

Related: business number, corporation, sole proprietorship

partnership (project)

In the context of a project, partnership refers to a formalized working relationship between two or more organizations with separate identities and independent accountabilities. A partnership is based on mutual benefit, shared goals and a clear agreement setting the terms of the arrangement.

performance indicator

A performance indicator is a qualitative or quantitative piece of information used to measure progress toward the achievement of an outcome. Performance indicators form the basis for performance measurement and reporting.

Related: performance measurement

performance measurement

Performance measurement is the process of comparing a project's anticipated outcomes and the outcomes actually achieved.

Related: performance indicator, progress report

program

Refer to funding program.

program objectives

Program objectives are short-, medium- and/or long-term enduring benefits to Canadians that a funding department aims to a achieve through a funding program. Program objectives stem from the funding department's mandate and vision.

Related: benefits, funding department, funding program, objective

progress report

Progress reports are periodic reports you must submit to programs supporting your project. Programs use these reports to assess your project's progress and to determine whether to provide you funding for your project's next budget period.

Related: performance indicator, reporting requirements

project

A project is an activity or a series of activities that has a beginning and an end. A project is carried out to produce defined outputs and outcomes that support a program's specific public policy objective(s). A project has a clear work plan, a budget and performance parameters.

Related: program, project objective, outcome

project milestones

Milestones are pre-defined deliverables or significant events that will be achieved during the project.

project objectives

Project objectives are statements of desired changes that your project aims to achieve. They provide a context in which the progress of your project can be measured. They should be clearly linked to the objectives of the program to which you are applying.

Related: objective, program objective

proponent

A proponent is a person or other entity that proposes a project. The word "proponent" is sometimes used interchangeably with the word "applicant".

Related: applicant

back to top of glossary

Q

R

recipient

A recipient is an individual or entity that is a party to a funding agreement and has been authorized to receive funding through a program. Upon approval of a project and signing of a funding agreement, an applicant becomes a recipient.

result

Refer to outcome.

reimbursement

A reimbursement is a contribution payment paid to you as compensation for eligible project expenses that you already incurred in carrying out your project's activities. Typically, you will not be issued the payment until you have properly accounted for your expenditures by submitting an acceptable claim form, progress report and/or other documents required by the program.

repayable contribution

A repayable contribution is a contribution you must repay to the Government. Repayable contributions may be conditionally repayable or unconditionally repayable. Repayment conditions are typically performance-based.

Related: conditionally repayable, unconditionally repayable

reporting requirements

Funding recipients are required to submit periodic, project-related reports to the funding program, which may include financial, progress and/or performance reports.

Related: risk, risk management

request for proposals (RFP)

A request for proposals (RFP) is a formal announcement of funding available through a particular federal program and invitation to the public to submit funding requests and proposals for projects that meet specific criteria set out in the RFP. May also be referred to as a "call for proposals (CFP)".

Related: application, applicant guide, funding program

risk

Risk refers to uncertainty that can create exposure to undesirable future events and outcomes. It is the expression of the likelihood and impact of an event with the potential to affect the achievement of the project's objectives. Risks may be related to technical issues, business and financial aspects of the project, project performance and timelines, among other things.

Related: risk management

risk management

Risk management is the systematic approach to setting the best course of action under uncertainty. It refers to the identification of the risks to a project, the quantification of those risks (in terms of impact and probability), and the development and implementation of mitigation plans to address them.

Related: risk

back to top of glossary

S

sole proprietorship

A sole proprietorships is a business that is not incorporated and is owned by a single individual.

Related: business number, corporation, partnership

stacking limit

A stacking limit is the maximum value of combined funding from federal, provincial or territorial, and municipal governments that a program permits you to receive for your project. Different programs have different stacking limits. Stacking limits are usually expressed as a percentage of eligible costs.

Related: eligible costs, total government funding

stakeholders

Stakeholders are the people and organizations that are actively involved in your project or whose interests may be positively or negatively affected by the execution or completion of your project. They may also be people or organizations that exert influence over your project and its results.

statement of interest (SOI)

A statement of interest (SOI) is a form that some programs require you to submit before you complete  a full application. An SOI usually requires you to provide applicant information, an overview of your proposed project, as well as current and historical corporate information. It's usually an element of the screening stage of a program's application process. The SOI will be assessed by the program to determine if your project meets the program's stated objectives and whether you have the basic managerial, financial and technical capability to carry out your project. It may also be referred to as a "letter of intent" or an "expression of interest".

Related: application

back to top of glossary

T

technology

Technology refers to the practical application of scientific knowledge and principles. While technology can be represented in physical form (patents, procedures, design documents, manuals, etc.), it is not a physical entity.

technology readiness level scale

The technology readiness level (TRL) scale is a system of nine stages of development used to assess the maturity of precommercial technologies. Many programs target projects at specific innovation stages and use TRLs as project eligibility criteria.

• Assess your project's maturity

Related: eligible project

term sheet

A term sheet is non-binding agreement that lays out the basic terms that will be included in a subsequent, legally-binding agreement, such as a grant or contribution agreement.

Related: funding agreement

total Canadian government funding

Total Canadian government funding refers to the total funding awarded to you by federal, provincial, territorial and municipal governments for any one activity, initiative or project.

Related: stacking limit

total project costs

Your total project costs include all of the costs you will incur in carrying out your project, regardless of the source of funds used to pay for them and including the value of any in-kind contributions you or a third-party provide to the project.

Related: eligible costs

transfer payment

Transfer payments are transfers of money from the federal government to individuals, organizations or other levels of government, to further government policy objectives.

• Learn about how the federal government uses transfer payment programs to implement federal policy objectives

Related: grant, contribution

back to top of glossary

U

unconditionally repayable contribution

An unconditionally repayable contribution is a contribution that you must repay the Government regardless of your project's outcomes. The required amounts and timing of your repayments will be scheduled in your contribution agreement.

Related: contribution, conditionally repayable contribution, repayable contribution

back to top of glossary

V

W

work plan

A description of the activities required to achieve your project's objectives. It usually sets out the key personnel responsible for each activity and a schedule for completing these activities, as well as major project milestones and deliverables. The work plan also sets out your project's anticipated outcome(s) and the performance indicator(s) for measuring your project's performance.

An applicant proposes the project's work plan in their funding application. If the project is awarded funding, a mutually agreeable work plan will be attached as an appendix to the funding agreement.

Related: activity, outcome, performance indicator, project milestone, key personnel

back to top of glossary

X

Y

Z

Other glossaries

• Glossary for Entrepreneurs (Business Development Bank of Canada)
• Glossary of Intellectual Property Terms (Canadian Intellectual Property Office)
• Office of Energy Efficiency Glossary (Natural Resources Canada)

Help finding funding for clean tech projects

• Clean Growth Hub

  The Hub provides information and works with eligible clean tech producers and adopters to find federal programs and services to advance clean tech projects. Consult the website to see a list of clean tech funding opportunities, services, events, and resources.

• Business Benefits Finder

  Get a personalized list of government funding, benefits and other support for your business.

• Grants and funding by category

  Find funding programs organized by project sector and need.

• Canada Business App

  An easy-to-use all-access point for essential information, interacting with Government resources and accessing tools to help build your business.

• Article: 16 ways to finance your clean tech business

  Read about sources of financing often used by clean tech companies at different stages of development.

• Article: 7 sources of start-up financing

  Read about seven common sources of financing for start-ups.

• Federal ecosystem of clean tech support

  Learn about different types of financial and non-financial support available through the Government for clean tech projects and initiatives at different stages of innovation.

Writing resources

• Clear communication: overview of the writing process and techniques

  Techniques to help you create clear, effective and reader-focused texts.

• Plain language, clear and simple

  A useful resource for those interested in producing writing that is accessible, precise and clear to experts and non-experts alike.

• Writing SMART objectives

  How to write objectives that are specific, measurable, achievable, realistic and time-bound.

• How to budget your proposal

  Tips and insights from experienced researchers about how to create winning budget proposals for research projects (Science Magazine).

Clean tech project tools and resources

• Technology Readiness Level (TRL) Assessment Tool

  Use the Clean Growth Hub's TRL Assessment Tool to assess the maturity of your technology.

• How to budget your proposal

  Tips and insights from experienced researchers about how to create winning budget proposals for research projects (Science Magazine).

• Research technologies and innovative solutions

  Software, tools and research technologies for your business improvement and development projects.

• Data analysis software and modeling tools

  Clean energy project analysis, modelling and simulation software tools designed by CanmetENERGY to help you:

  • assess various types of renewable energy and energy efficient technologies
  • reduce greenhouse gas emissions
  • reduce operating costs and comply with code requirements

  • qualify for funding and incentive programs

• Calculators

  Calculators for identifying performance indicators for environmental funding applications.

•  Map of Clean Energy Resources in Canada

  An interactive map that shows, among others things, clean energy projects that are planned or under construction, clean energy test centres, clean energy research and development projects and clean tech incubators and accelerators across Canada.

• ExploreIP

  An online tool for exploring possible licensing and collaboration opportunities with public sector patent holders.

• Research Facilities Navigator

  Locate and connect with research expertise, state-of-the-art equipment and labs found in publicly funded research facilities across Canada.

Help starting and growing your clean tech business

• How to start a business

  Advice and tools for starting a business in Canada.

• Registering your business with the Government

  Find out about registering and incorporating your organization, as well as how to apply for a business number and tax account.

• Business plan guide

  Learn about the key components of a business plan.

• Business plan examples and templates

  Free business plan examples, templates and tools.

• Conducting market research

  Learn about market research and analysis.

• Canadian Intellectual Property Office

  Access intellectual property (IP) services and information about different forms of IP, including patents, copyright, industrial designs, trademarks and integrated circuit typographies.

• Intellectual property resources for clean technologies

  Specialized IP resources for creators and owners of clean tech, including how you can fast-track the patent application process for your clean technology.

• BizPal

  Find the permits and licences you need for your business.

• Business Development Canada (BDC)

  Loans, advisory services and resources for small- and medium-sized businesses.

• Export Development Canada (EDC)

  Canada's export credit agency.

• Regional Development Agencies

  Contact your Regional Development Agency for advice about tax obligations, regulations, permits and registering your business.

• Innovation Advisors

  If you're incorporated, ready to grow or scale, looking to create a new product, service or process, or looking for advice, you may be eligible to connect with an Innovation Advisor. Their extensive network of contacts can help you find, and make the most of Government programs and services at your disposal, from financing to technical advice to foreign market expertise.

Clean Growth Hub member webpages

• Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
• Business Development Bank of Canada
• Canadian Commercial Corporation
• Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada
• Environment and Climate Change Canada
• Export Development Canada
• Fisheries and Oceans Canada
• Global Affairs Canada
• Indigenous Services Canada
• Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada 
• National Research Council Canada
• Natural Resources Canada 
• Standards Council of Canada
• Sustainable Development Technology Canada
• Transport Canada
• Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat

What is intellectual property?

Intellectual property (IP) refers to the creations and innovations resulting from intellectual activity in the industrial, scientific, literary and artistic fields.

Just like other types of property, IP comes with certain legal rights, which generally include the exclusive right to prevent others from exploiting (making, using, selling, licensing, importing and exporting) your IP, often for a time-limited period.

IP can be very valuable for your business and developing a strong IP strategy to protect and leverage your IP can help to:

• prevent others from exploiting your innovations
• avoid costly legal issues
• protect your brand
• gain a market advantage over competitors and get a bigger return on your investment
• create new revenue streams (e.g. by licensing your IP)
• attract investors, financing partners and government funding

Types of intellectual property

In Canada, the most common forms of IP protection are:

• patents
• copyright
• trademarks
• industrial designs
• trade secrets
• plant breeders' rights

Often, you can protect different aspects of an innovation or creation using more than one form of IP protection.

Click through the tabs below to learn more about different types of IP:

Protecting your intellectual property abroad

There are international treaties and conventions that automatically extend copyright protection in Canada to foreign jurisdictions. However, patents, PBRs, industrial design, trademark, and copyright registrations are only valid and enforceable in the country or region in which they are granted. If you plan to operate your business in multiple jurisdictions, including selling products over the internet and/or manufacturing products overseas, consider seeking IP protections from each country or region's IP office. International agreements and application processes have been created that allow you to apply for patents, and register your industrial designs and trademarks in multiple jurisdictions at the same time, which can save you time and money.

• Learn more about protecting your IP outside Canada

More intellectual property resources and services

• Canadian Intellectual Property Office website: Get information about IP, access IP services and tools, or apply for IP.
• IP Academy: Learn about IP and building an IP strategy using CIPO's online learning resources, seminars and training materials.
• IP resources for clean tech: Access CIPO's specialized resources for clean tech organizations on how to leverage their IP as part of their business and growth strategy.