The Industry R&D Associates Program (IRAP) is essential for supporting SMEs by providing resources, funding, and expertise to accelerate the commercialization of their innovative technologies, enhancing their competitiveness and growth potential. IRAP is notable as it fosters innovation, drives economic growth, and promotes job creation. By providing funding and technical assistance, the program helps SMEs advance their research and development efforts, leading to the creation of new products, services, and processes. IRAP facilitates networking and collaboration, promoting knowledge exchange and partnerships among SMEs, researchers, and industry experts, thus enhancing the innovation ecosystem in Alberta.

CanExport SMEs Update: 2026-2027 Fiscal Year
Applications for the 2026-2027: CanExport SMEs funding program are open until May 29, 2026, and assessed on a rolling competitive basis. Approximately $31 million is available

