Innovation Canada — Innovation Advisors in MB ### 📋 Eligible Entities - Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Manitoba - Businesses at any stage of innovation development (early-stage to growth) - For-profit companies developing new products, technologies, or processes - Businesses operating in Manitoba or planning to establish operations in the province - Sole proprietors and incorporated businesses - Note: Non-profits may have limited eligibility; verify with program administrator ### 💰 Funding Details - Grant Type: Free advisory service (non-financial grant) - Cost to Business: $0 – completely funded by government - Format: One-on-one consultations with Innovation Advisors - No Matching Requirement: This is a fully-funded support program - No Repayment: Advisory services are non-repayable - Duration: Flexible; typically multiple sessions based on business needs ### 🛠️ Approved Expenses This is an advisory service program; no direct funding is provided for business expenses. Advisors assist with: - Identifying relevant government grants, loans, and tax incentives - Navigating federal and provincial innovation funding programs - Understanding eligibility criteria for other support programs - Developing innovation strategy and funding roadmaps - Connecting businesses to additional resources and networks - Guidance on R&D, commercialization, and scaling innovation ### ⚠️ Conditions & Milestones - Application Required: Businesses must apply or be referred to access an advisor - Manitoba Location: Business must be based in or relocating to Manitoba - Innovation Focus: Project must involve development of genuinely new or significantly improved products, technologies, or processes - Engagement Requirement: Business must actively participate in advisory sessions - Confidentiality: Advisor discussions are confidential - No Guarantee of Funding: Advisor assistance does not guarantee approval for subsequent grant programs - Timeline: Sessions scheduled based on advisor availability and business readiness - Documentation: Advisors may request business information to tailor recommendations