BDC Advisory Services — Data to AI Program ### 📋 Eligible Entities - Canadian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) - Private for-profit businesses - Businesses operating in any industry sector - Companies with revenue typically under $50 million (eligibility may vary) - Sole proprietors and incorporated businesses - Businesses at any stage of AI adoption (beginners to advanced) ### 💰 Funding Details - Grant Type: Advisory services (non-repayable) - Cost Coverage: BDC subsidizes a portion of advisory fees; businesses typically pay a co-investment - Matching Requirement: Cost-sharing model (exact percentage varies by service scope and business profile) - Repayability: Non-repayable grant/subsidy for advisory services - No Direct Cash Disbursement: Funds are applied toward professional consulting fees, not direct business payments ### 🛠️ Approved Expenses - AI readiness assessments and strategic consulting - Data audit and management evaluation - AI implementation roadmap development - Process optimization studies using AI/automation - Productivity improvement planning - Technology adoption guidance and best practices - Digital transformation strategy development - Business process streamlining recommendations - Professional consultant fees for AI advisory services ### ⚠️ Conditions & Milestones - Must engage a BDC-approved consultant or advisor - Business must demonstrate commitment to implementing AI solutions - Completion of initial business assessment and needs analysis - Participation in advisory meetings and strategy sessions as required - Development and approval of an actionable AI implementation plan - Follow-up monitoring to track adoption progress - Timeframe typically spans 3-6 months depending on scope - No guarantee of funding for subsequent implementation costs - Businesses must be current with tax obligations and in good standing