IRAP

Web: http://irap-pari.nrc-cnrc.gc.ca/main_e.html∞

The Industrial Research Assistance Program, operated by the National Research Council, which is part of Industry Canada -- a federal government ministry.

For qualifying startup and early-stage companies, IRAP can provide a mix of expertise, referrals, and funding. There are IRAP ITAs (industrial technology advisors) based at the Accelerator Centre serving Waterloo Region and the surrounding area. They are typically assigned to companies by geography.

The ITAs each have technology and business experience, and provide advisory services directly to companies. They also have connections to a network of 250 ITAs across Canada, as well as the NRC's research labs and other service providers.

For qualifying companies, funding is provided on a matching basis. IRAP will provide funding for salaries, but not for equipment or materials. It often provides funding (50%) for market research. IRAP also has two information specialists in Mississauga that can help you with technical research.

IRAP has also been a significant financial supporter of WatStart.

Contacts

• Yves Richard, ITA, yves.richard@nrc-cnrc.gc.ca∞
• Shimon Schwartz, ITA, shimon.schwartz@nrc.gc.ca∞
• Richard Adair, ITA, richard.adair@nrc-cnrc.gc.ca∞