Innovation Enhancement Program

The Innovation Enhancement Program will provide non-repayable contributions to public sector institutions, not-for-profit groups, community organizations and industry associations that are involved in activities that enhance innovation in the province.

Funding may be available for the development and expansion of strategic industry clusters and for public/private research partnerships involved in the development of new technologies.

Eligibility Criteria

Eligible Activities

The proposed project activities must demonstrate innovation enhancement consistent with government's innovation strategy - Innovation Newfoundland and Labrador : A Blueprint for Prosperity .

Projects may include:

• acquiring incremental expertise and consultants for specific, project-based activities including studies and feasibility analyses;
• training to assist with the retention of existing employees to meet the demands of new technologies and activities within an organization;
• assistance for quality improvement programs for educational and R&D institutions;
• initiatives that focus on developing institutional/industrial partnerships;
• development and expansion of strategic clusters, including marketing activities to capitalize on the combined strengths, expertise and experience of stakeholders to create a competitive
  advantage; and
• other activities related to innovation enhancement.

Ineligible Activities

Funds from the program cannot be used:

• to support core administration functions;
• for projects that compete with local private enterprise;
• for residential and commercial real estate services, retail, wholesale and consumer-oriented establishments; or
• by federal, provincial, and municipal governments and their agencies.

Summary

Available Funding

The program will provide assistance of up to 50% of eligible project costs in the form of a non-repayable contribution, to a maximum of $250,000 per project.

For information and assistance:

• call toll-free at 1-800-563-2299
• visit the Department's web site
• visit the regional office nearest you:  INTRD - Contacts for Newfoundland and Labrador.