Alberta Innovates — Associés en recherche et développement en Alberta ### 📋 Eligible Entities - Private for-profit corporations registered in Alberta - Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) - Incorporated business entities with operations in Alberta - Organizations must have the capacity to employ a professional researcher or development specialist - Businesses seeking to conduct innovation projects in partnership with research institutions or independently ### 💰 Funding Details - Maximum Grant Amount: $105,000 CAD - Coverage Rate: Up to 75% of eligible professional salary costs - Funding Duration: 12 months - Repayability: Non-repayable grant (contribution/subsidy model) - Matching Requirement: Applicant organization must cover minimum 25% of eligible salary costs - Payment Structure: Typically disbursed in installments upon milestone completion and expense verification ### 🛠️ Approved Expenses - Salary costs for a qualified professional (researcher, engineer, or development specialist) - Professional wages dedicated to: - Proof-of-concept validation - Prototype development and testing - Feasibility studies and assessments - Research and development activities supporting innovation - Technical problem-solving and solution design - Wages must be for work directly related to the approved innovation project ### ⚠️ Conditions & Milestones - Project Duration: 12-month maximum engagement period - Professional Requirement: Funded position must be for a dedicated, qualified professional - Reporting Obligations: Regular progress reports and milestone documentation required - Expense Verification: All salary expenses must be supported by payroll documentation and timesheets - Matching Contribution: Applicant must demonstrate and provide 25% cost-sharing throughout project - Project Alignment: Work must clearly demonstrate innovation outcomes (proof-of-concept, prototype, or feasibility validation) - Timeline Compliance: Project must be completed within the 12-month funded period - Accountability: Recipient must track and report on deliverables and project progress