Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative

Description

The Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative (RAII) empowers Northern Ontario SMEs to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) solutions into their operations, with the goal of enhancing business productivity, innovation, and commercialization. The RAII program provides matching funds of up to $20,000 to help SMEs through funding, AI and IT mentorship, AI training workshops, and regional leaders to drive regional economic growth and build AI capabilities.

Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative

The Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative (RAII) empowers Northern Ontario SMEs to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) solutions into their operations, with the goal of enhancing business productivity, innovation, and commercialization. The RAII program provides matching funds of up to $20,000 to help SMEs through funding, AI and IT mentorship, AI training workshops, and regional leaders to drive regional economic growth and build AI capabilities.

Funded by FedNor

Eligible Applicants Criteria

• The applicant must be a NORCAT Innovation client. If you are not a NORCAT Innovation client, complete the Discovery Document Form.
• Applicants must be a growth-oriented and for-profit (registered sole proprietor, partnership or corporation).
• Demonstrate a clear need for AI integration to enhance productivity, commercialization, and competitiveness.
• Provide an AI commercialization or integration project proposal at a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of at least 7 (prototype stage or beyond).
  • TRL Level definition

Note: Retail and service-based businesses will not be considered under this program.

Eligible Activities

Pillar 1: AI Productization and Commercialization

• Technology demonstration and/or commercialization of Canadian-made AI technologies and solutions.
• Business and capacity development supporting the scale-up of developing AI technologies and AI-driven solutions.

Pillar 2: AI Adoption

• Strategic AI adoption and integration of AI technologies and solutions that drive innovation, growth, and productivity.
• Process re-engineering and capacity development for AI adoption.

Eligible Project Costs Include

• Technology and Capital:
  • AI servers, GPUs, and cloud infrastructure
  • Software licenses, subscriptions, and data management platforms
• Training and Commercialization:
  • Specialized AI training for employees
  • Pre-commercialization activities such as market validation and compliance preparation
• Professional Services:
  • AI solution design and development
  • Consulting and implementation services
  • Benchmarking, prototyping, and system testing

Ineligible Activities

• Ongoing operating costs and administration
• Staff salaries or internal overhead
• Activities unrelated to AI integration or commercialization

Contribution Requirements

The maximum financial assistance available under the program is 50% of approved Total Eligible Project Costs, up to $20,000 per SME, whichever is lesser.

The SME is required to pay project service providers 100% of invoiced costs, including all applicable HST, prior to submitting for reimbursement.

Program Requirements

1. Client Intake & Discovery:
   • The applicant must be a NORCAT Innovation client. If you are not a NORCAT Innovation client, complete the Discovery Document Form.
2. Proposal Submission:
   • Submit a proposal outlining the AI integration plan, your current TRL level, and business value.
3. Quotations for Project Work:
   • The applicant must submit a minimum of two competitive quotes from independent and unrelated service providers.
   • Each quote must detail:
     • Scope of work
     • Hourly rate or total cost
     • Estimated number of hours required
4. Project Feedback Requirements:
   • Upon project completion, recipients must submit a formal exit survey describing the project's impact on their business operations, outcomes, or future plans.
5. Long-Term Reporting:
   • Applicants may be contacted for follow-up feedback for up to five years post-completion to support program evaluation and impact tracking.

How to Apply

Applications are now open for NORCAT Innovation's RAII Program. Follow the steps below to begin your application process:

1. Apply: Submit your application form online. We'll review it and confirm your project meets the program guidelines within 2 business days.
2. Evaluation: After initial review, complete a full application package so your project can be assessed in more detail.
3. Decision: Final decisions will be made within 1 month.