Key Government Contacts Mr. Rick Mohorovich Senior Business Consultant Automotive and Advanced Manufacturing Investment Branch Ministry of Economic Development and Trade Trade and Investment Division 5th Floor, Hearst Block 900 Bay Street Toronto ON M7A 2E1 Tel 416-325-0457 Email rick.mohorovich@edt.gov.on.ca Mr. Steve Haddon Senior Business Advisor Ministry of Small Business and Entrepreneurship Ministry of Economic Development and Trade Ministry of Research and Innovation 180 Elgin Street, Suite 810 Ottawa ON K2P 2K3 Tel 613-242-3841 Toll Free 1-800-267-6592 Email steve.haddon@ontario.ca Ext. 233 Mr. Ken Hitchmough Industrial Technology Advisor Industrial Research Assistance Program (IRAP) NRC – National Research Council Tel 613-991-4425 Email Ken.Hitchmough@nrc-cnrc.gc.ca Ms. Ellen Yachin Senior Advisor Program Delivery Unit- Advanced Manufacturing Investment Strategy (AMIS) Ministry of Economic Development and Trade 900 Bay Street Toronto ON M7A 2E1 Tel 416-325-6746 Email ellen.yachin@ontario.ca Mr. Leigh Davison Sector Competitiveness Branch- Office of Aerospace Ministry of Economic Development and Trade 7th Floor, Hearst Block 900 Bay Street Toronto ON M7A 2E0 Tel 416-325-1359 Email leigh.davison@ontario.ca Page 1 of 24 Main Government Programs & Incentives Strategic Aerospace and Defence Initiative (SADI) Program Responsibility Industry Canada, Government of Canada Program Description The Strategic Aerospace and Defence Initiative supports private sector industrial research and precompetitive development (R&D) in Canada's aerospace, defence, security and space (A&D) industries. Industry characteristics for R&D in the A&D industries such as high development costs, long development lead times and long payback periods, combined with the cyclical nature of the industry and the fact that projects are high risk, make it difficult for the private sector to entirely fund an R&D project. Through repayable project contributions, the Strategic Aerospace and Defence Initiative will encourage strategic research and development and leverage crucial private-sector R&D investment in the aerospace, defence, security and space industries. SADI will foster collaboration between research institutions, universities and colleges, non-profit organizations and the private sector. Supporting R&D in the industry also enables Canada to attract global A&D firms and first class scientific and engineering talent. Eligibility Criteria SADI is open to all Canadian companies in aerospace and defence (A&D) industries. The following activities may qualify for SADI. Industrial research: Planned research or critical investigation aimed at discovering new knowledge, with the objective that such knowledge may be useful in developing new products, processes or services, or in bringing about a significant improvement to existing products, processes or services. Pre-competitive development: The translation of industrial research findings into a plan, blueprint or design for new, modified or improved products, processes or services, whether intended for sale or use, including the creation of a first prototype that could not be used commercially. Pre-competitive development may further include the conceptual formulation and design of products, processes or services, as well as initial demonstration or pilot projects. Funding SADI is expected to invest nearly $900 million in five years, with funding to reach a maximum of $225 million per year. Contributions to SADI projects will equal approximately 30 percent of a project's total eligible costs. Repayment periods will average 15 years starting approximately one year after R&D has been completed. Program Type Research and development, Financing Contact Information The Strategic Aerospace and Defence Initiative is administered through Industry Canada's Industrial Technologies Office. Click here to download the Application Guide. Derek Yue Senior Investment Manager Environment Technologies, Industry Canada 151 Yonge Street, 4th Floor Toronto ON M5C 2W7 Tel: (416) 973-5159 Email: yue.derek@ic.gc.ca Page 2 of 24 The Advanced Manufacturing Investment Strategy (AMIS) Program Program Responsibility Ontario Ministry of Economic Development and Trade Program Description The Advanced Manufacturing Investment Strategy (AMIS) program is a $500 million multi-year repayable loan program intended to encourage eligible companies operating in Ontario to transform processes and adopt leading edge technologies that will increase productivity and competitiveness. This repayable loan program is interest free for up to the first five years and will provide loans for up to 10 per cent of total project costs. No project will exceed $10 million in contributions from the program. Eligibility Criteria The Advanced Manufacturing Investment Strategy (AMIS) is open to all sectors. Projects must, over 5 years, create/retain 100 or more high value jobs or have a minimum total project investment of $25 million. Eligible projects must be situated at facilities within Ontario and undertaken by companies that operate or will operate, by virtue of the project, in Ontario. Note: The AMIS program does not provide loan funds to start-up companies, for business restructuring, or regular capital reinvestment. Funding AMIS will fund the best investments in high quality projects that will yield the greatest results for Ontario. If selected for funding, loan terms for the project would be negotiated on a case-by-case basis subject to, among others, the following conditions: Interest rates will be set at the Province's cost of borrowing for a comparable term plus 1%. Loan amount will be up to 10% of total project costs, to a maximum of $10 million per project. Interest on the loan may be forgiven for up to five years if a company achieves specified performance. Loans will only be made to financially established companies. Please note AMIS is not an entitlement program, hence, companies that meet the criteria may not be automatically eligible. Miscellaneous/Other Information Applications to the Advanced Manufacturing Investment Strategy (AMIS) program will be sought through a competitive “Call for Proposals” process. Please check the Ministry’s website for the latest round of closing dates. The program allows for up to three calls for proposals annually over five years. To download a copy of the Proposal and Business Plan Application Package click here. Ministry of Economic Development and Trade staff is available for a no-obligation PreAssessment meeting prior to the submission of your application to provide feedback on your proposal concept. Program Type Financing, business development Contact Information Advanced Manufacturing Investment Strategy (AMIS) program Ministry of Economic Development and Trade Sector Competitiveness Branch 6th Floor, Room 611A, Hearst Block 900 Bay Street Toronto ON M7A 2E1 Tel: (416) 325-6867 Fax: (416) 314-7014 Email: AMIS@ontario.ca Website: www.ontariocanada.com/ontcan/en/progserv_amis_en.jsp Page 3 of 24 Canada Small Business Financing Program (CSBF) Program Responsibility Industry Canada Program Description The Canada Small Business Financing (CSBF) Program, under the Canada Small Business Financing Act, can assist small businesses in obtaining term of up to $250,000 to help finance fixed assets needs. Qualified lenders make the loans (chartered banks, caisses populaires, most credit unions, many trust, loan and insurance companies) and the leases are issued by participating lessors. CSBF loans are not available for the purpose of financing inventory, working capital or existing debt. Eligibility Criteria Most small businesses starting up or operating in Canada – excluding farming, charitable and religious enterprises – are eligible as long as their estimated annual gross revenues do not exceed $5 million during the fiscal year in which they apply for a loan or a lease. Businesses may be operated as sole proprietorships, partnerships or incorporated companies. Funding Under the CSBFA and the Small Business Loans Act (SBLA), a borrower’s maximum outstanding loan may not exceed $250,000. Loan proceeds may be used to finance up to 90% of the cost of the asset, including non-refundable taxes and duties. Lenders are obligated to take security in the assets financed. Under the CSBFA, borrowers may choose between: Floating rate loans, where the interest rate fluctuates with changes in the lender's prime lending rate over the term of the loan, but cannot be more than 3% over the lender's prime lending rate; and Fixed rate loans, where the interest rate is fixed for the term of the loan, but cannot be more than 3% over the lender's residential mortgage rate for the applicable term This 3 % includes an annual administration fee of 1.25% payable by the lender to the government. A loan can be prepaid and/or the interest rate can be converted to a fixed or floating rate. The lender may charge a penalty for the prepayment or conversion of the loan. Miscellaneous/Other Information The period during which a loan must be repaid will generally coincide with the expected economic life of the asset being financed, up to a maximum of 10 years. Installment payments on the loan principal must be scheduled at least annually, but monthly payments are usually called for depending upon arrangements between the borrower and the lender. Program Type Financing, business development, Financing - capital assets Contact Information Contact the lender of your choice to find out more about the CSBFA. For further details about the CSBF Act, the program parameters or the list of lenders, visit the Industry Canada website: www.strategis.gc.ca/csbfa (Information aussi disponible en français) Canada Small Business Financing Program Info line: (613) 954-5540 or 1-866-959-1699. E-mail: CSBFA-LFPEC@ic.gc.ca Page 4 of 24 Canadian Commercial Corporation (CCC) Program Responsibility Canadian Commercial Corporation is a Crown corporation reporting to Parliament. Program Description As Canada’s international contracting agency, Canadian Commercial Corporation helps Canadian exporters secure market access primarily in complex government-to-government markets. CCC builds confidence in Canadian exports by giving the exporters the credibility of a Government guarantee of contract performance that opens doors and leads to contracts with improved terms. The US Department of Defense business represents two-thirds of CCC's contract billings. CCC also provides export-related assistance and advice to small-and-medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The following are some of the principal products/services CCC offers: Business Leads helps Canadian exporters to identify and pursue qualified leads and to support their international sales efforts. SourceCAN opportunity matching Market Access breaks down the barriers by giving foreign buyers and Canadian exporters access to government-to-government vehicle that simplifies and streamlines the procurement process. International prime contractor solution U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) schedules submission service U.S. Department of Defense prime contractor solution NASA prime contractor solution Export Contracting help exporters to close sales by securing the best possible terms and conditions. Program Type Export business development Contact Information Canadian Commercial Corporation 50 O'Connor Street, 11th floor Ottawa ON K1A 0S6 Tel: (613) 996-0034 Toll-free in Canada : 1-800-748-8191 Email: info@ccc.ca Website: http://www.ccc.ca Page 5 of 24 Export Development Canada Program Responsibility Export Development Canada is a Crown Corporation that is financially self-sufficient and operates on commercial principles. Program Description Export Development Canada (EDC) provides innovative financing, insurance and bonding solutions to Canadian companies that export goods and services, or invest in other countries. In 2005 EDC‘s services and deal structuring capabilities helped to facilitate $57.5 billion in transactions for nearly 7,000 Canadian companies. Approximately 90 per cent of EDC’s customers are small and mediumsized businesses. The following are some of the EDC financing and risk management programs for Canadian companies and their international customers. For Canadian companies that export and for foreign customers: Pre-shipment Financing Foreign Exchange Facility Guarantee (FXG) Security Compliance Loan Foreign Buyer Financing Equity Investments Lines of Credit Corporate Loan Syndication Project Finance Credit insurance for export transactions and Contract insurance for capital goods, service contracts and projects: Accounts Receivable Insurance (ARI) EXPORT Protect Performance Security Insurance (PSI) Contract Frustration Insurance (CFI) Political Risk Insurance (PRI) Contract Bonding Services Performance Security Guarantee (PSG) Surety Bond (re) Insurance (SBI) Program Type Business development, export, financing, Financing - Exports, Advice and Consultation Contact Information Export Development Canada 151 O'Connor Ottawa ON K1A 1K3 Tel: (613) 598-2500, 1-866-283-2957 Fax: (613) 237-2690 Website: http://www.edc.ca Page 6 of 24 Capital Leasing Pilot Project Program Responsibility Industry Canada Program Description The Capital Leasing Pilot Project, under the Canada Small Business Financing Act (CSBFA), assists small businesses in obtaining capital leasing up to $250,000 for new and used equipment. Capital leases are made directly by participating leasing companies (lessors). The Capital Leasing Pilot Project was created to help small businesses access additional financing through capital leases, to finance new or used equipment for the expansion or creation of their business. Eligibility Criteria Most small businesses starting up or operating in Canada – excluding farming, charitable and religious enterprises – are eligible as long as their estimated annual gross revenues do not exceed $5 million during the fiscal year in which they apply for a capital lease. Businesses may be operated as sole proprietorships, partnerships or incorporated companies. Funding Capital leases may be used to finance: new or used equipment necessary for the operation of a business registration fee equal to 2% of the financed cost of the equipment, provided that the total amount of the capital lease does not exceed $250,000. the total outstanding balance of all capital leases made under the Pilot Project and of all loans made under the CSBFA and the Small Business Loans Act (SBLA) cannot exceed $250,000. Capital leases under the pilot project are not eligible: if the cost of the equipment exceeds $250,000 if equipment for which the financed cost is greater than 100% of the cost of the equipment if the financing is used for: real property or immovables; equipment that is the subject of a conditional sale or a sale-lease back; and software related to the operation of the small business. The imputed rate of interest (which is used to calculate the scheduled payments) cannot exceed 13.25% plus the Government of Canada bond rate for the term of the lease. This interest rate includes an administration fee of 1.25%. Miscellaneous/Other Information Contact participating lessors to find out more about this pilot project. The list of the participating leasing companies in the Capital Leasing Pilot Project is regularly updated on the Web site: www.strategis.gc.ca/csbfa Program Type Business Development, financing, Financing - capital assets Contact Information For further details about the CSBF Act, the program parameters or the list of lessors, visit the Industry Canada website: www.strategis.gc.ca/csbfa Canada Small Business Financing Program Info line: (613) 954-5540 or 1-866-959-1699. E-mail: CSBFA-LFPEC@ic.gc.ca Page 7 of 24 Ontario Commercialization Investment Funds Program (OCIF) Program Responsibility Ministry of Research and Innovation Program Description The Ontario Commercialization Investment Funds program intends to facilitate the commercialization of technology derived from research and development performed in Ontario. The program provides a grant to leverage seed capital for spin-off technology companies created by faculty, staff or students of research institutes. How the program works A research institute or a group of research institutes, as sponsor(s), applies to the Ministry of Research and Innovation for registration of a corporation or partnership as an Ontario Commercialization Investment Fund corporation or partnership (OCIF). The ministry reviews the application and related documentation. If approval is granted, a registration number is assigned and a certificate of registration is issued. The OCIF raises capital from eligible investors. When an OCIF corporation/partnership plans to invest or has invested in an eligible business, it will apply to the Ministry of Research and Innovation (MRI) for a certificate indicating that the investment is an eligible investment and the amount of the grant available in respect of the investment. If approval is granted, MRI will issue a certificate stating that the investments or proposed investments are eligible, and specifying the amount of grant available. Eligibility Criteria Please refer to the publication “A Guide to the Ontario Commercialization Investment Funds Program” for a description of the following program elements. Click here to download the Guide. Sponsors Registration of an OCIF Restrictions Eligible investors Eligible investment Eligible business Investment Certification Funding The Ontario Commercialization Investment Funds Program provides research institutions in Ontario with an alternative source of the investment capital necessary to promote growth and create jobs. Once a year, the OCIF applies to the Ministry of Research and Innovation for a grant, which is calculated as 30 per cent of the amount of eligible investments. The maximum amount of grant available to one or more OCIFs in respect of a particular eligible business and all businesses related to the eligible business is $225,000 (maximum investment of $750,000). Program Type Research and development, financing, tax incentive Contact Information For information regarding eligible investments, eligible businesses or for an application for an OCIF investment certificate, please contact: John Marshall, Director Economic Development and Innovation Directorate Ministry of Research and Innovation 56 Wellesley Street, 11th Floor Toronto ON M7A 2E7 (416) 325-6644 (416) 326-9654 (Fax) Email: John.Marshall@mri.gov.on.ca Website: http://www.mri.gov.on.ca Page 8 of 24 ecoEnergy for Renewable Heat Program Responsibility Natural Resources Canada Program Description The ecoENERGY for Renewable Heat program will invest $36 million over four years to: increase the use of renewable thermal energy; help develop renewable thermal energy industry capacity; and contribute to cleaner air by displacing fossil fuel-based energy use for space heating and cooling, and water heating in Canadian buildings. Incentives will be offered to the industrial/commercial/institutional entities to support the installation of solar space and water heating. Natural Resources Canada estimates suggest the program will support installations in about 700 buildings by 2011. ecoENERGY for Renewable Heat will also help establish solar and geothermal (ground-source heat pump) technologies in the marketplace by supporting the development of industry standards and certification processes, promoting the adoption of these technologies by building codes and provincial and municipal regulations, and training system designers, technicians and installers. Eligibility Criteria Active solar water and air heating systems that are installed in Canada qualify for the incentive. Eligible buildings used in part for residential occupancy, the building must have a common entrance and must either exceed 600 m2 in building area or have at least four (above ground) storeys of building height. Eligible systems must use only collectors accepted by the program. Proposed systems that exceed a specified cost per square metre will undergo a technical review before a Contribution Agreement is entered into and may or may not be eligible. Funding 25% of the purchase, installation and certain other costs of a qualifying system (40 percent in remote communities). The maximum incentive is $80,000 per installation. The corporate maximum incentive for multiple installations is $2 million. In the case of for-profit applicants, the total project funding from all levels of government is limited to 50 percent of eligible project costs. Program Type Financing Contact Information ecoENERGY for Renewable Heat Renewable and Electrical Energy Division Natural Resources Canada 615 Booth Street, Room 150 Ottawa ON K1A 0E9 Tel.: 1-877-722-6600 (toll-free) Fax: 613-943-6517 E-mail: ecoenergyrhp@nrcan.gc.ca Website: http://www.ecoaction.gc.ca/ecoenergy-ecoenergie/heat-chauffage/indexeng.cfm Page 9 of 24 Industrial Research Assistance Program (IRAP) Program Responsibility National Research Council Canada Program Description The Industrial Research Assistance Program (IRAP) helps Canadian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) meet technological challenges and build innovation capacity. The IRAP portfolio of services has four main components: Technology Expertise and Advisory Services NRC-IRAP Industrial Technology Advisors (ITAs) provide customized technical and business oriented solutions to SMEs clients at each stage of the R&D development process and the innovation cycle. Financial Assistance for R&D activities Through its Research and Technology Development Activities program, NRC-IRAP provides non-repayable funding contributions to Canadian SMEs interested in growing by using technology to commercialize services, products and processes in Canadian and international markets. NRC-IRAP also invests on a cost-shared basis for research and pre-competitive development technical projects. On behalf of the Government of Canada's Youth Employment Strategy Programs NRCIRAP delivers two initiatives that enable SMEs to hire recent post-secondary graduates with specific skills and expertise to advance innovative programs: - Internship Program with Innovative Small and Medium-sized Enterprises - Collaborative Research Internships Program Networking Extensive network to link entrepreneurs, R&D institutions, technology brokers and technology transfer centres to those with knowledge and information about local sources of financing. Partnerships Link with more than 100 partner organizations in Canada's innovation system. Eligibility Criteria Canadian small or medium-sized incorporated business (500 employees or less) are eligible for support. Funding NRC-IRAP funds portions of project costs and reimburses salaries and labour fees through its Youth Employment Strategy program and a Research and Development Activity program. Contributions are targeted towards clients who can present a strong business case for a technology, demonstrate the technical, financial and managerial capacity to take an idea from concept to commercialization; and demonstrate a clear need for financial support. Program Type Research and development, financing, human resources and training, advice and consultation Contact Information Dr. Sam Stevens Executive Director for Ontario National Research Council Canada Tel: 1-877-994-4727 Email: publicinquiries.irap-pari@nrc-cnrc.gc.ca Website: http://irap-pari.nrc-cnrc.gc.ca/ Page 10 of 24 Ontario Innovation Demonstration Fund Program Responsibility Ontario Ministry of Research and Innovation Program Description The Ontario Innovation Demonstration Fund (IDF) is a discretionary, non-entitlement funding program to help companies in their efforts to commercialize innovative technologies in Ontario. The Innovation Demonstration Fund (IDF) focuses on the commercialization and initial demonstration of innovative technologies, processes and/or products. Funding will be available for new and emerging technologies, with a focus on bio-based, environmental and alternative energy technologies. The funding is to be used for technology demonstration activities and pilot scale demonstrations. Who May Apply Companies with Eligible Projects that will be undertaken in Ontario, and where the project will result in full-scale commercialization in Ontario may apply. Applicants must demonstrate how: The proposed technology demonstration at the pilot stage will provide a competitive advantage for Ontario or other significant benefits. The technology, product or process is best in class and will lead to a globally competitive business and market opportunity. Following a successful pilot, the technology product or process will be moved into the global market. Funding 50 percent of eligible costs from a minimum of $100,000 to a maximum of $4,000,000 per project total. Ministry funding limit is $2,000,000 per year, per project. Financial Assistance from $100,000 up to $300,000 will take the form of a secured noninterest bearing forgivable loan. The loan may be forgiven at the end of a term depending on performance targets achieved. Financial Assistance between $300,000 and $4,000,000 may take the form of one of the following funding vehicles: Non-interest Bearing Secured Forgivable Loan; Secured Repayable Loans; Secured Incentive Term; Royalty Agreements; and Equity participation. Miscellaneous/Other Information Proposals can be submitted on an ongoing basis. Applicants must submit a completed application form and business plan. Rigorous due diligence will be undertaken to assess the applicant’s business case as well as the applicant’s technological, managerial and financial ability to achieve the stated objectives of the program and the project. The Ministry shall determine the funding mechanism and the precise terms relating thereto including the degree of forgiveness in any loan structure and taking into account various factors which include but are not limited to: The extent to which the Ontario contribution maximizes the likelihood of success for the project; Stage of the company (i.e. start-up, small or medium sized enterprise, large company); The extent to which the Project meets the goals of the IDF; Ministry investment required to complete the project; and Likelihood of project and business success. Page 11 of 24 To download the Ontario Innovation Demonstration Fund Program Guidelines, Application Form and Business Plan Guide click here. Program Type Commercialization, research and development, financing Contact Information Innovation Demonstration Fund Ministry of Research and Innovation Commercialization Branch 11th Floor, 56 Wellesley Street West Toronto ON M7A 2E7 Tel: (416) 326-9658 Fax: (416) 314-0680 Email: idf@mri.gov.on.ca Website: http://www.mri.gov.on.ca Page 12 of 24 Ontario Innovation Tax Credit (OITC) Program Responsibility Ontario Ministry of Revenue Program Description The OITC is a 10% refundable tax credit for corporations that make expenditures on scientific research & experimental development (SR&ED) carried on in Ontario. Eligibility Criteria The credit is available to all public and private corporations with permanent establishments in Ontario. Only expenditures for scientific research & experimental development carried on in Ontario, for which the taxpayer is eligible for federal (SR & ED) investment tax credit, qualify for the OITC. Funding The OITC is calculated at 10% of qualifying expenditures Maximum claim is $200,000 per taxation year Qualifying expenditures are 100% of current expenses such as salaries and wages, and 40% of capital expenditures; OITC is available on qualifying SR&ED expenditures to a maximum of $2 million annually Miscellaneous/Other Information To claim the OITC, corporations must complete the OITC claim form, file the Ontario corporate tax return (CT23 or CT8) and enter the amount on line 191. To ensure quick identification of the claim, provide a copy of the related federal schedules (T2 SCH 31 and T661). Program Type Research and development, Tax Credits Contact Information Ministry of Revenue Tax Compliance and Regional Operations Branch Specialty Assessments Unit 33 King Street West Oshawa ON L1H 8X4 Tel: (905) 837-3814 Toll Free: 1 866 805 7702 ext. 3814 Fax: (905) 837-3824 Ontario Innovation Tax Credit (OITC) Claim Form/Guide http://www.rev.gov.on.ca/english/forms/ct/pdf/0329f.pdf Page 13 of 24 Ontario New Technology Tax Incentive (ONTTI) Program Responsibility Ontario Ministry of Revenue Program Description Introduced in the 1997 Ontario Budget, the ONTTI encourages the development and transfer of new technology. The ONTTI allows taxpayers a 100% immediate write-off of the eligible cost of qualifying intellectual properties acquired in the course of an intellectual property transfer. Eligibility Criteria The ONTTI applies to contracts entered into after May 6, 1997 in respect of eligible costs incurred after August 31, 1997. The property must be first used by the taxpayer within a reasonable time following its acquisition and continues to be used during the entire period in which the innovation or invention is being implemented The property must be acquired in an "intellectual property transfer." Eligible costs are included federally in Class 14, Class 44 or the ECE pool of the taxpayer An intellectual property transfer is an acquisition of qualifying intellectual property by a corporation from an unrelated person for the purpose of implementing an innovation or an invention in the corporation's business that is carried on in Ontario Miscellaneous/Other Information Neither the "half-year" rule nor the "available for use" rule applies for ONTTI purposes. Program Type Research and development, Tax Credits Contact Information Ministry of Revenue Client Accounts and Services Branch 33 King Street West Oshawa ON L1H 8X4 Tel: (905) 837-3814 Fax: (905) 837-3824 For further details, see Tax Legislation Bulletin October 1998 #98-12: Website: http://www.fin.gov.on.ca/english/tax/bulletins/ct/ontti_frost_9812.html Page 14 of 24 Ontario Centres of Excellence Commercialization Program Program Responsibility Ontario Centres of Excellence Program Description The OCE Commercialization Program addresses the "innovation gap" between valuable research results and the new, marketable products and services that drive economic growth. It consists of three initiatives: Market Readiness: Prepares entrepreneurs and their technologies for the market by investing in a range of activities, including market analysis, technology validation and business plan development. Accelerator Investment: Pre-seed investment of up to $250,000 into a new company commercializing academic research. Martin Walmsley Fellowship for Technological Entrepreneurship: Supports a researcher creating a new technology-based startup company. Eligibility Criteria Researchers at Ontario colleges, universities and research hospitals and previously OCE-funded programs Funding $25,000 - $250,000 depending on the program Miscellaneous/Other Information Details on Research programs are available online at http://www.oce-ontario.org/default.aspx?m=Commer Program Type Research and Development, Financing, Entrepreneurship, Financing - innovation Contact Information Main Office: 156 Front Street West, Suite 200 Toronto, Ontario M5J 2L6 General Phone: 416.861.1092 Toll Free: 866.759.6014 Fax: 416.971.7164 Email: http://www.oce-ontario.org/default.aspx?m=contact Website: http://www.oce-ontario.org Page 15 of 24 Ontario Centres of Excellence Research Program Program Responsibility Ontario Centres of Excellence Program Description The OCE Research Program is focused on meeting the competitive needs of Ontario industry by tapping into the remarkable potential for Ontario colleges, universities and research hospitals to act as generators of innovation. It consists of four targeted initiatives: Interact: Research collaborations that create new industry-academic relationships. Proof of Concept: Feasibility studies that test an idea to mitigate the risk of further research investments. Champions of Innovation: Research projects that develop disruptive technologies with the potential to create new markets and form the basis for new start-up companies. Collaborative Research: Research collaborations between industry and academia that move technologies from the lab to the marketplace. Eligibility Criteria Researchers at Ontario colleges, universities and research hospitals Funding $13,500 - $50,000 depending on the program Miscellaneous/Other Information Details on Research programs are available online at http://www.oce-ontario.org/default.aspx?m=Research Program Type Research and Development, Financing, Financing - innovation Contact Information Main Office: 156 Front Street West, Suite 200 Toronto, Ontario M5J 2L6 General Phone: 416.861.1092 Toll Free: 866.759.6014 Fax: 416.971.7164 Email: http://www.oce-ontario.org/default.aspx?m=contact Website: http://www.oce-ontario.org Page 16 of 24 Ontario Centres of Excellence Talent Program Program Responsibility Ontario Centres of Excellence Program Description The OCE Talent Program generates the next-generation innovators and entrepreneurs. It consists of five initiatives that support innovators at various stages of their development: Connections: Supports research collaboration between final-year undergraduate students and companies - creating an early opportunity to conduct industry-relevant research. International Scholarships: Gives student researchers opportunities to work with international leaders in their field. Professional Outreach Awards: Supports opportunities available to students who want to be further involved in the conference they are attending through such activities as chairing a session or volunteering to be a member of an organizing body for a conference and tradeshow. Value Added Personnel (VAP): Helps student researchers develop essential skills to complement their technical expertise. First Job: Makes it possible for companies to hire young researchers with significant academic experience and potential. Eligibility Criteria Students at Ontario universities and colleges and companies and organizations that can benefit from young innovators and entrepreneurs Funding $3,500 - $50,000 depending on the program, training is available in several programs Miscellaneous/Other Information Details on Research programs are available online at http://www.oce-ontario.org/default.aspx?m=Talent Program Type Research and Development, Human Resources and Training, Education and Training, Financing innovation Contact Information Main Office: 156 Front Street West, Suite 200 Toronto, Ontario M5J 2L6 General Phone: 416.861.1092 Toll Free: 866.759.6014 Fax: 416.971.7164 Email: http://www.oce-ontario.org/default.aspx?m=contact Website: http://www.oce-ontario.org Page 17 of 24 Scientific Research and Experimental Development (SR&ED) Tax Incentive Program Program Responsibility Canada Revenue Agency Program Description The Scientific Research and Experimental Development (SR&ED) program is a federal tax incentive program to encourage Canadian businesses of all sizes and in all sectors to conduct research and development (R&D) in Canada that will lead to new, improved, or technologically advanced products or processes. The SR&ED program is the largest single source of federal government support for industrial research and development. Eligibility Criteria Claimants can apply for SR&ED investment tax credits for expenditures such as wages, materials, machinery, equipment, some overhead, and SR&ED contracts. Funding Generally, Canadian-controlled private corporations with less than $300,000 in taxable income can receive a refundable investment tax credit (ITC) of 35% of qualifying SR&ED expenditures, to a maximum of $2 million of expenditures. Most other Canadian corporations, proprietorships, partnerships, and trusts can receive an investment tax credit of 20% of qualifying SR&ED expenditures. Miscellaneous/Other Information Free public information seminars provide a general overview of the program, explaining the program's eligibility criteria, what expenditures are eligible, and how to file a SR&ED claim. Please visit the CRA website (http://www.cra-arc.gc.ca/taxcredit/sred/seminar-e.html) for venue and time for public information seminars. Program Type Research and development, Tax Credits Contact Information Toronto Centre Tax Services Office for SR&ED enquiries 1 Front Street West, Suite 100 Toronto ON M5J 2X6 Tel: (416) 973-1717 Fax: (416) 952-8334 Website: http://www.cra-arc.gc.ca/taxcredit/sred/menu-e.html Page 18 of 24 Productivity Plus Loan (BDC) Program Responsibility Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) a financial institution wholly owned by the Government of Canada. Program Description Productivity Plus Financing is designed for small manufacturing and processing companies to increase productivity by acquiring equipment. Eligibility Criteria Eligible companies are small businesses in the manufacturing sector with an experienced management team, excellent growth prospects and profit potential, a solid financial foundation, and who make productivity improvement a priority Eligible use of funds is to purchase modern equipment that will increase productivity Funding Financing up to $5,000,000 BDC can offer up to 100% of the cost of new and used equipment An additional 25% can cover incidental costs such as installation, training and working capital Miscellaneous/Other Information BDC consultants are available to help assess, develop and implement a productivity improvement plan. Program Type Financing, human resources and training, Financing - Capital Assets Contact Information To contact your local branch of Business Development Bank of Canada please click here Tel: 1-877-232-2269 E-mail: info@bdc.ca Website: http://www.bdc.ca/ BDC Venture Loans® Venture Loans® provide quasi-equity financing between $100,000 and $1,000,000 to existing businesses with a high-quality management team, a clear market niche, and a good potential for growth. They are higher-risk financing designed for businesses that do not have assets to back a conventional term loan. Venture Loans© offer flexible repayment terms and a pricing structure that combines interest payments and royalties on sales. BDC Venture Capital BDC considers capital investments at any stage of a company's life cycle, from seed to growth, from acquisition or expansion to turnaround. Small businesses in leading-edge industries with a strategic market position and a dynamic management team committed to sustained growth are eligible for initial investments ranging from $500,000 to $5,000,000 with the average transaction between $1,500,000 and $2,000,000. BDC Working Capital for Exporters This loan is designed for established businesses that wish to enhance their export initiatives. Working Capital for Exporters loans of up to $250,000 are available for financing increased exports, and include flexible repayment terms to ensure the long-term viability of a business. Working Capital for Exporters also offers customized consulting services to help small businesses manage their export development. Page 19 of 24 Co-Vision (BDC) Program Responsibility Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) a financial institution wholly owned by the Government of Canada. Program Description Customized term financing for new businesses demonstrating long-term viability. The program was created to meet the following needs of start-up businesses: purchase fixed assets, start-up expenses, working capital, marketing expenses and purchase of a franchise. Eligibility Criteria To be eligible, a company must be in the start-up or early growth phase (first 12 months of sales), have invested reasonable financial resources in the business, can provide personal and credit reference, must demonstrate realistic market and sales potential, must possess experience or expertise in their chosen field. Funding Up to $150,000 Miscellaneous/Other Information Flexible terms of repayment. If requested, personalized management support can be provided. Program Type Financing, Financing - Start-ups Contact Information To contact your local branch of Business Development Bank of Canada please click here Tel: 1-877-232-2269 E-mail: info@bdc.ca Website: http://www.bdc.ca BDC Connex® BDC has leaped into the electronic commerce age by developing BDC Connex©, its virtual branch that offers a complete line of financial products, including the Global Line of Credit ®. BDC Techno.net Loan To help small businesses take up the challenge of electronic commerce and establish a lead position for themselves, BDC created the techno.net loan. Existing small businesses can apply for financing from $25 000 to $50 000 to meet the various costs related to the implementation of a Web solution. This new loan product complements BDC's other Web-related solution for small business owners, BDC Connex©. Page 20 of 24 Innovation Financing (BDC) Program Responsibility Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) a financial institution wholly owned by the Government of Canada. Program Description Innovation Financing is designed to help innovative businesses position themselves to take advantage of new markets and new technologies. Funds can be used to implement or develop an innovation strategy, develop new products or services, purchase technologies for product and process improvement, introduce quality management standards (such as ISO or HACCP), plan and implement marketing or growth strategies, develop and train staff or develop foreign markets. Eligibility Criteria Eligible companies must have growth potential, a solid business plan, a viable strategy and be established with a strong management team and a competitive advantage Funding Financing ranges up to $250,000, and terms are up to 8 years Flexible repayment plans may be available Miscellaneous/Other Information Companies may be able to combine Innovation Financing with other BDC loans when projects are related. Program Type Financing, Financing - Start-ups Contact Information To contact your local branch of Business Development Bank of Canada please click here Tel: 1-877-232-2269 E-mail: info@bdc.ca Website: http://www.bdc.ca/ Community Futures Development Corporations Counselling and advisory services often go hand-in-hand with financing to make a business successful. Community Futures Development Corporations (CFDCs) (referred to as Community Business Development Corporations [CBDCs] provide "one-stop shopping" in selected non-metropolitan areas, for individual businesses or community-based economic development initiatives. CFDCs/CBDCs offer: business counselling and advisory services to help with the establishment, expansion, competitiveness or stabilization of your business; and financing in the form of loans, loan guarantees or equity investments of up to $125 000 to help you in the creation or maintenance of long-term employment in your community. CFDCs/CBDCs are community organizations outside metropolitan areas that receive federal support to develop and implement long-term community plans for the development of their local economies. Renfrew County Community Futures Development Corporation www.rccfdc.org/EnglishHome.htm Tel: 613.735.3951 Email: rccfdcinfo@bellnet.ca Page 21 of 24 Ontario Apprenticeship Training Tax Credit (OATTC) Program Responsibility Ontario Ministry of Revenue / Employment Ontario Program Description The Apprenticeship Training Tax Credit encourages employers to hire and train apprentices in certain skilled trades. Corporations and unincorporated businesses are eligible for a refundable tax credit on wages and salaries paid or payable for services performed after May 18, 2004, by an eligible apprentice during the first 36 months of an apprenticeship. Eligibility Criteria The credit is available to businesses, which have permanent establishments in Ontario, are subject to Ontario Income Tax and incur eligible expenditures in respect of an eligible apprentice. Eligible apprentices are in a qualifying skilled trade and must be hired before January 1, 2012. Qualifying skilled trades include designated industrial, construction and motive power trades, and some information technology and service trades. Funding Corporations are eligible for a 25 per cent refundable tax credit on eligible expenditures incurred with respect to eligible apprentices. For businesses with total payroll costs not exceeding $400,000, the tax credit rate is increased to 30 per cent. An employer is eligible for a tax credit of up to $5,000 per year per eligible apprentice to a maximum of $15,000 over the first 36 months of the apprenticeship. The maximum annual tax credit of $5,000 is pro-rated for the number of days the apprentice is employed with that employer during the year. Miscellaneous/Other Information Eligible corporations must complete CT23 Schedule 114 and claim the tax credit on their CT23, CT23 Short or CT8 tax return. Eligible employers operating unincorporated businesses claim the tax credit on the Ontario Credits form ON479 included in their personal income tax return. Members of a partnership claim their share of the ATTC on their own corporate or personal tax returns. Program Type Human resources and training, Tax Credits Contact Information Call the toll-free Employment Ontario Hotline at 1-800-387-5656 for the phone number and location of the apprenticeship office in your area. For further details on the Apprenticeship Training Tax Credit, see Corporations Tax Interpretation Bulletin Number 3020R dated May 2007 or contact: Ministry of Revenue Client Accounts and Services Branch 33 King Street West Oshawa, Ontario L1H 8X4 Tel: (905) 837-3814 Fax: (905) 837-3824 Page 22 of 24 Ontario Job Connect Program Responsibility Employment Ontario Program Description Job Connect offers a range of services to respond to the employment needs of individuals and the skilled labour needs of employers. Job Connect is delivered by community-based colleges and non-profit agencies, such as youth employment centres and Adult Help Centres. The program connects people with apprenticeship opportunities and provides services to help newcomers and internationally trained professionals integrate more rapidly into Ontario's economy. The program also helps employers connect with people looking for work or on-the-job training opportunities. Each year, Job Connect helps more than 125,000 people through about 130 sites in 80 communities across Ontario. Job Connect helps employers by providing: Opportunities to advertise job openings through walk-in self-directed information and employment resource services open to the public Screening and recruiting services to meet their business needs Assistance to the employer in developing a training plan and training placement support Employers may be eligible for training incentives. Eligibility Criteria Employers who operate a business in Ontario, who are looking to hire staff, are ready to provide onthe-job training and/or who are seeking people who want to work, may benefit from Job Connect. Program Type Human resources and training Contact Information Visit the Employment Ontario website or call the toll-free Employment Ontario Hotline at 1-800387-5656 for the name of the organization delivering Job Connect in your area. Job Connect Offices in Renfrew County www.algonquincollege.com/pembroke/staff/staff6.html Employer Signing Bonus http://www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/tcu/employers/emp_bonus.html $2,000 Employer Signing Bonus initiative to encourage employers in the trades to register new apprentices in sectors where there is a high demand for skilled workers. This initiative will assist employers to hire and register youth under 25 years of age who have left school and require upgrading to meet the registration standards for apprenticeship training. Page 23 of 24 Targeted Wage Subsidies Program Program Responsibility Ontario Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities Program Description The Ontario Targeted Wage Subsidy Program is designed to: provide on-the-job work experience to unemployed people who are, or have recently been eligible to receive Employment Insurance and are experiencing difficulty in finding work; encourage employers to hire people who face barriers to employment (people they might not otherwise hire) by offering a temporary wage subsidy. The duration of the subsidy is determined on a case-by-case basis, up to a maximum of 78 weeks. Eligibility Criteria Businesses, organizations, individuals, public health and educational institutions, municipal governments, and band/tribal councils are eligible to apply. Funding Generally the wage subsidy should not exceed 60% of the total wages paid to the individual for the period of the agreement. Program Type Human resources and training, Financing - Hiring Contact Information Call the toll-free Employment Ontario Hotline at 1-800-387-5656, or (416) 326-5656 in Toronto, for the phone number and location of the employment and training services in your area; or visit the following Employment Ontario website . Page 24 of 24