PacifiCan — Regional Economic Growth through Innovation — Regional Innovation Ecosystems ### 📋 Eligible Entities - Not-for-profit organizations (primary applicants) - Indigenous organizations and Indigenous-led not-for-profits - Consortiums of organizations working collaboratively - Regional economic development organizations - Business support service providers (incubators, accelerators, business development centers) - Post-secondary institutions partnering with not-for-profits - Organizations operating in Western Canada (British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba) - Must demonstrate capacity to support businesses at all stages of development - Priority given to organizations serving under-represented groups (women entrepreneurs, Indigenous businesses, racialized communities, persons with disabilities, rural entrepreneurs) ### 💰 Funding Details - Grant Type: Non-repayable financial contribution - Typical Funding Range: Project-specific; not a fixed amount - Matching Requirements: Cost-sharing expected (applicants must demonstrate financial contribution from other sources) - Repayability: Non-repayable grant (not a loan) - Currency: Canadian dollars - Funding Period: Multi-year support available (project-dependent) - Maximum Duration: Varies by project scope (typically 3-5 years) ### 🛠️ Approved Expenses - Business support services: - Mentoring and coaching programs - Technical assistance and advisory services - Business training and skill development - Market research support - Network development: - Ecosystem building initiatives - Collaboration platforms for entrepreneurs - Industry-specific network creation - Support for specific cohorts: - Programs targeting women entrepreneurs - Indigenous business support initiatives - Racialized entrepreneur programs - Rural business development services - Supports for persons with disabilities - Innovation and competitiveness: - Digital adoption assistance - Export readiness programs - Global competitiveness enhancement services - Infrastructure and operations: - Operating costs of support organizations - Facility and technology investments to deliver programming - Staffing for program delivery -