The
CONNECT
Program

The CONNECT Program

Bioindustrial Innovation Canada (BIC), with funding support from the National Research Council of Canada Industrial Research Assistance Program (NRC IRAP), offers the CONNECT Program to help Canadian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) accelerate the commercialization of innovative bioproducts by connecting them with Canadian service providers offering technical or commercial expertise.

Program Focus for This Year

We are supporting projects in two core areas:

• Fermentation and synthetic biology

• AI and machine learning

The program connects businesses with Canadian service providers who provide technical or commercial expertise. Approved projects can receive up to $15,000 plus applicable taxes in funding.

Criteria:

• Applicant Firms must meet IRAP eligibility criteria and be an existing IRAP client or become a new IRAP client.

• Only one project per applicant per fiscal year is allowed.

• Service providers must be Canadian, independent, and have no close ties to the applicant.

• Projects must be completed and invoiced by March 8, 2026.

• BIC can assist in finding qualified service providers.

• The program operates on a first-come, first-served basis

Project Requirements:

Projects must involve innovation or development activities such as:

• Research and Development (R&D) work

• Lab or technical work

• Market research

How We Support You

We’re committed to driving innovation and supporting your business’s growth. Our rigorous proposal review process, contingent upon NRC IRAP approval and funding availability, ensures project success.

The services of only one service provider may be used per application. We recognize the importance of connecting with the right service provider, and we are here to facilitate introductions upon your request. To ensure equitable access, service providers can work on up to five projects per fiscal year.

Our commitment to inclusivity extends to providing applications in both official languages, ensuring accessibility for all.

Intellectual Property Policy

All intellectual property developed in the program will be owned by the applicant. Service providers must not make claims on any intellectual property developed during program activities.