Saskatchewan Launches Innovation Commercialization Grant
The SAIF program offers up to $450,000 to accelerate tech commercialization in Saskatchewan’s core sectors.
Saskatchewan is bolstering its commitment to industrial innovation with the Saskatchewan Advantage Innovation Fund (SAIF). Administered by Innovation Saskatchewan, SAIF is designed to accelerate the commercialization of novel technologies addressing critical challenges within the province’s key economic sectors.
The fund supports industry-led research and development (R&D) projects that demonstrate strong market demand and potential for economic impact. With a focus on commercialization, SAIF targets collaborative ventures that engage industry players, researchers, and end users. The program is structured around two competitive intake periods annually, making it a strategic opportunity for businesses looking to transform cutting-edge R&D into viable products or services.
SNAPSHOT
Non-repayable grants of up to $450,000 for tech commercialization projects.
Focus areas include mining, energy, manufacturing, healthcare, and cleantech.
Requires industry partnerships and at least 50% matching contributions.
Open to expressions of interest until September 30, 2025.
PROGRAM BENEFITS
Non-Repayable Grant Funding: Up to $450,000 per project to support R&D and commercialization activities.
Broad Eligible Costs: Covers R&D salaries, equipment depreciation, IP-related expenses, technical consulting, and more.
Eligibility for Repeat Funding: Additional funds available for distinctly new projects, with a lifetime maximum of $900,000.
Milestone-Based Disbursement: Funds released in stages based on deliverables and reporting.
Stacking Flexibility: Coordinated with other federal or provincial programs, subject to SAIF caps.
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS
Businesses are evaluated upon:
Saskatchewan Presence: Preference for lead proponents based in Saskatchewan, though external innovators may be considered case-by-case.
Demonstrated Industry Challenge: Must solve a specific sector-wide challenge, not just a company-level issue.
Innovation Threshold: Proposals must show novel, non-derivative technological advances.
Commercialization Path: Applicants must present a clear, feasible go-to-market plan with long-term benefits.
Industry-Led Partnership: Projects must include active industry partners across the value chain, led by a for-profit entity.
Financial Contribution Requirement: SAIF funding cannot exceed 30% of the total project budget; 50%+ must come from industry partners.
Letters of Intent: Minimum of two letters from prospective or committed customers to validate market interest.
CONNECT WITH HICKEY CANADA’S INCENTIVES TEAM
The Hickey & Associates Canada incentives team has advised companies navigating the complex incentives process across Saskatchewan and other Canadian provinces. Contact us for more specifics, including specific eligibility criteria, application details, and funding requirements.
If you’d like our support throughout the application process, we are here to help.