Southern Ontario Invests $23M in Regional Quantum Initiative (RQI)

Computing, sensors, and advanced materials development technologies can be improved by using quantum science to manipulate and control systems at the atomic and subatomic level. To transform quantum research into products and solutions, the province is introducing a program called the Regional Quantum Initiative (RQI). Canadian companies have significant commercialization potential with quantum technology as a wide range of industries, including life sciences, clean energy, and more, can benefit from quantum technologies.

“Southern Ontario is home to many competitive advantages, including world-leading research centres and high-potential quantum companies, and is well-positioned for quantum breakthroughs. The launch of the Regional Quantum Initiative will provide businesses in this sector with the support they need to commercialize their technologies and bring them to market, helping make Canada a world leader in advancement of quantum technologies.”

The Honourable Helena Jaczek, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario

The RQI is a part of Canada’s National Quantum Strategy (NQS) and is designed to support commercialization and globalization of Canadian quantum products and solutions through the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev).

“Quantum science will transform how everything is designed and developed. It has the potential to dramatically grow the economy and create thousands of well-paid jobs. Our government, through important investments like these and the National Quantum Strategy, is proud to amplify Canada’s strength in quantum science and further cement Canada’s leadership in this field.”

The Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry

Funding Amount

The funding available through this program totals $23 million over six years. Eligible applicants can receive between $500,000 to $5 million for up to six years per project. However, total government support for RQI projects may not surpass more than 75% of total project costs.

All funding is without interest and is fully repayable starting one year after project completion.

Applicant Eligibility

An applicant may be eligible through the RQI program if they are a small or medium-sized enterprise (SME) that:

• Is located in southern Ontario;
• Is incorporated at the time of application;
• Owns or has a license to the project’s intellectual property; and
• Can cover 50% of eligible project costs.

Eligible Activities

A RQI application may be considered eligible if it meets one or more of the four core activities of the program:

• Piloting and/or demonstrating quantum technologies, including in operational settings, with a focus on advancement of technological systems to bring them to market;
• Commercializing quantum technologies for diagnostics, expansion, supply chain integration, and more;
• Business improvement via organizational growth, improving management practices or governance, and investment readiness; and
• Securing, improving, or adopting new quantum technology for firms in priority sectors, such as life sciences, defence, financial technologies, and advance manufacturing.

Program Timelines

This program is currently open and accepting applications until September 20, 2022, or funding is fully committed.

Learn More About Government Funding for Technology

To learn more about the government funding for advanced software technologies, visit our Software Development Funding Programs directory for a collection of the top programs available today. You can also learn more about new and upcoming quantum initiatives, such as, “ISC Launches Four New Challenges Targeting Quantum and Charging Technology Gaps” by signing up for our government funding newsletter which offers weekly insights to the government funding landscape for Canadian businesses.

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