Centres d'accès à la technologie (CAT) ### 📋 Eligible Entities - Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) - Startups and emerging businesses - Manufacturing and production companies - Technology-focused organizations - Businesses seeking to improve productivity and innovation - Organizations located across Canada with access to one of the 70 CAT centres - Entrepreneurs and business owners requiring specialized technical support ### 💰 Funding Details - Structure: Access-based program (not a direct cash grant) - Funding Type: In-kind support through technology, equipment, and specialized expertise - Cost Model: Subsidized or reduced-cost access to CAT facilities and resources - Geographic Coverage: 70 centres distributed across Canada - Repayability: Non-repayable (access-based support model) - Matching Requirements: Varies by centre and specific project needs ### 🛠️ Approved Expenses - Access to specialized technologies and equipment - Use of advanced machinery and production tools - Technical expertise and consulting services - Support for productivity improvement projects - Innovation and product development initiatives - Engineering and technical problem-solving assistance - Training and knowledge transfer from specialized staff - Prototyping and testing services - Digital transformation and technology adoption support ### ⚠️ Conditions & Milestones - Projects must focus on productivity and innovation objectives - Applicants must work with a CAT centre in their region - Access is granted based on project eligibility and centre capacity - Users must comply with centre-specific operational policies and safety requirements - Projects should demonstrate clear business or innovation outcomes - Time-limited access periods may apply depending on project scope - Businesses must provide project details and expected results to the centre - Ongoing communication and progress tracking with CAT staff required - Priority given to projects with measurable productivity or innovation impact