Information about programs and information holdings

Business innovation

The business innovation programs make it easier for Canadian businesses to access the support they need to research, develop and commercialize innovative processes and products. They ensure Government of Canada innovation programs are cohesive and responsive to the needs of innovators. These programs include the Strategic Innovation Fund (SIF), which brings together previous funds (Automotive Innovation Fund, Automotive Supplier Innovation Program, Strategic Aerospace and Defence Initiative, and Technology Demonstration Program), while also expanding access to other sectors such as clean technology and agri-food. This group of programs also includes: the Accelerated Growth Service (AGS), to facilitate the growth of Canadian small and medium enterprises (SMEs) by providing client-centric, better-coordinated service delivery across the federal government; Innovation Canada platform, a "one-stop-shop" for innovators and entrepreneurs to find and access programs easier and faster; and Innovative Solutions Canada (ISC), which provides businesses with an opportunity to develop and validate new technologies and services in a government environment.

Innovative Solutions Canada

Description: Innovative Solutions Canada (ISC) is a research and development (R&D) procurement program that supports the growth, scale-up and commercialization objectives of innovative Canadian firms. ISC funds companies to advance early and late stage R&D for technologies that address the procurement needs and priorities of government, through grants and contracts. The program further validates technology through its Pathway to Commercialization, a procurement tool that can be leveraged by all federal departments and agencies to acquire, without competition, innovations which have been successfully developed through program funding.

Document types: Application forms; selection criteria grids; evaluation grids; procedures and guidelines; correspondence about applications; agreements; contracts; statements of work; terms of reference; agendas; meeting minutes; notices; recommendation documents; briefing and discussion papers; claims; payment requisitions; post-completion evaluation reports; data analysis; survey analysis; policy documents; purchase requisitions; communication materials released in all formats (including web sites); photographs of companies' success stories; videos; audit documentation; correspondence; backgrounders; reports; tracking documents; funding approval documentation; presentation material; and interdepartmental network contact list.

Record number: OS-SO-PRO-030-01

Accelerated Growth Service

The Accelerated Growth Service (AGS) offers three key services including the Advisory Service, the Growth Service and the new Scale-Up Service (Global Hypergrowth Project) to help firms grow and scale. Requests for these services come from a variety of sources, including the ISED call centre where there is a dedicated telephone line to help companies access the right service. If a company is incorporated, ready to grow or scale, looking to create a new product, service or process—or just looking for advice—they might be eligible to connect with an Innovation Advisor from the Accelerated Growth Service.

Innovation Advisors are former Canadian entrepreneurs who understand what it takes to grow a business. They can leverage their extensive network of contacts to help clients find, and take advantage of all the government programs and services at their disposal, from financing to technical advice, to foreign market expertise. With the Growth Service and the Scale-Up Service, Innovation Advisors—a custom-built, government team drawn from a network of 70+ federal, provincial, municipal and non-profit partners—builds uniquely tailored plans to help clients grow and meet their goals, while providing advice on how to pitch business to government, navigate government programming, and position applications.

Document types: Information pertaining to the administration of the AGS and the Global Hypergrowth Project.

Record number: OS-SO-PRO-010-01

Strategic Innovation Fund

Description: The Strategic Innovation Fund (SIF) supports large-scale, transformative and collaborative projects that help position Canada to prosper in the global knowledge-based economy. SIF's projects promote the long-term competitiveness of Canadian industries, clean growth, and the advancement of Canada's strategic technological advantage. As part of the Innovation and Skills Plan, the SIF plays a key role in the continuum of innovation funding, providing support for projects through simplified application processes, accelerated processing, and assistance that is more responsive and focused on results. The SIF covers all sectors of the economy and is available to for-profit and not-for-profit organizations to support the Canadian ecosystem.

Document type: Briefing notes; issues notes; assessments; Cabinet documents; correspondence; emails; Question Period cards; briefing decks; project summary forms; contribution agreements; financial data outlines; project data sheets; project amendment forms; project proposals; project claims; project monitoring updates; project and program media packages; project risk analyses; repayment data; and forecasts.

Record number: OS-SO-PRO-030-01

BizPaL

Description: BizPaL is an online service that benefits Canadian businesses by helping them identify which permits and licences they require and how to obtain them. Entrepreneurs simply select their location and the business activities they plan to undertake and BizPaL then automatically generates a list of all required permits and licences from all levels of government (federal, provincial, territorial and municipal), along with basic information on each, and links to government sites where the entrepreneur can learn more and, in some cases, apply online.

Document types: Briefing notes; minutes of meetings; intergovernmental Letters of Agreement; client experience and web traffic reports; statements of work; Requests for Proposals; planning documents; approvals; invoices; and marketing materials.

Record number: IS-SI-010-07

Business Benefits Finder

Description: The Business Benefits Finder brings together hundreds of federal, provincial and territorial government programs and services all in one place. By answering a few quick questions, users receive a tailored list of programs and services including funding, loans, wage subsidies, tax credits, expert advice, and more.

Document types: Information pertaining to the administration of the Business Benefits Finder initiative, including from provincial and territorial governments.

Record number: OS-SO-PRO-030-01

Global Innovation Clusters (formerly: Innovation Superclusters Initiative)

The Global Innovation Clusters (GIC) initiative (renamed in Budget 2022) is a non-repayable contribution program. Its objective is to support the acceleration of world-leading innovation clusters in Canada that translate the country's strengths into new commercial opportunities for Canadian firms. Eligible recipients are industry-led, incorporated, not-for-profit organisations. Funding for this program was provided by Budgets 2016 and 2017, and consists of a total of $950 million, over five years. An additional $60 million was provided to the Clusters in Budget 2021. The program was renewed in Budget 2022 with an investment of $750 million over the next six years.

Document types: Information pertaining to the administration of the Global Innovation Clusters Program.

Record number: OS-SO-PRO-010-01

Cyber Security Innovation Network

Description: The Cyber Security Innovation Network (CSIN) is a pan-Canadian network supporting the growth of Canada's cyber security ecosystem through academia-industry collaboration. The network seeks to enhance research and development, increase commercialization, and further support the development of skilled cyber security talent across Canada. The National Cybersecurity Consortium (NCC) was selected through a competitive process to lead the program. The NCC is a not-for-profit organization founded by centres of expertise on cyber security at five Canadian universities including: University of Calgary; Concordia University; University of New Brunswick; Toronto Metropolitan University; and University of Waterloo.

Document types: Written recommendations; working papers and research documentation; agendas; briefings; supporting documentation; meeting minutes; Board of Director meeting materials; payment documents; correspondence; Treasury Board Submissions; funding agreements; annual reports and corporate plans from recipients; contracts; audits & evaluations; program design information; progress reports; and policy and analytical materials concerning the management, performance, and outcomes of funding.

Record number: OS-SO-PRO-030-01

Spectrum and Telecom

Spectrum and Telecom programs support the development and administration of domestic regulations, procedures and standards that govern Canada's radiocommunication and telecommunications industries. These programs set legislative and policy frameworks to enable a fair and competitive marketplace and put into place the right conditions for market-driven telecommunications investment, innovation, and growth. They maximize the public benefits of spectrum by managing it efficiently and effectively, through spectrum and radio licensing including auctions, compliance monitoring and enforcement. Under these programs, Canadian interests in the radiocommunications and telecommunications industries are protected through the negotiation of international treaties and agreements.

Spectrum and Telecom programs also play a role in public safety by protecting information and communications technologies critical infrastructure, in making spectrum available for first responders, in supporting the telecommunications industry in times of emergency, in leading cyber resilience initiatives, and supporting cyber security. They are supported by research and development carried out at the Communications Research Centre (CRC), the federal centre of research excellence for advanced telecommunications, focusing on spectrum and wireless research and development. The Centre provides technical advice to enable evidence-based decision-making and spectrum program management for ISED, as well as offering research and development support to other government departments and external stakeholders.

International Telecommunication Union (ITU)

Description: The ITU Assessed Contribution Program provides funds to the ITU to cover Canada's general membership fees, while the ITU Grant Program provides funding above the general membership fees, in order to support priority areas. ISED participates in the activities of the ITU, the United Nations specialized agency for information and communication technology issues, by coordinating Canadian participation in the ITU. These efforts consolidate, promote and protect the interests of the Government of Canada, Canadian telecommunications carriers, users and manufacturers and other Canadian organizations concerned with the work of the ITU.

Document types: Proposals; positions; memoranda; legal opinions; statistical reports; agendas; minutes of meetings; briefing notes; membership lists; registration information; information on public or private organizations interested in the work of the ITU; and summary records of meetings in preparation for ITU meetings.

Record number: IS-SI-010-07

Spectrum management regime legislation and regulation

Description: The use of spectrum in Canada is authorized pursuant to legislative and regulatory frameworks. These frameworks must be responsive to emerging trends in spectrum use as well as to the changing needs and expectations of Canadians. Furthermore they enable the continued development of a robust wireless infrastructure in Canada, supporting timely access to spectrum in all regions of the country.

Document types: Memoranda; procedures; policies; project plans; surveys; statistical reports; agendas; minutes of meetings; briefing notes; letters; audits; implementation reports; communiqués; licences; certifications; resolved/unresolved issue reports; proposals; applications; monitoring reports; inspection and investigation reports; information relating to the development of spectrum regulatory policies and procedures; information relating to radio spectrum utilization; and the development of technical standards and regulations for the following items, functions and activities:

• Telecommunication systems;
• International treaties and agreements (including Mutual Recognition Agreements);
• Investigations on vulnerabilities and security of telecommunications;
• Certification of broadcasting facilities;
• Authorization of radiocommunication and broadcasting systems;
• Certification of radio operators;
• Certification of radio equipment;
• Registration of telecommunications equipment;
• Accrediting foreign and domestic conformity assessment bodies;
• Radiocommunication interference investigations;
• Enforcement of the Radiocommunications Act and the Telecommunications Act and their Regulations.

Record number: IS-SI-01-010-07

• Spectrum/Telecommunications Workflow and Documentation Management Personal Information Bank

  Description: This bank describes information that is used in support of managing all activities related to radio frequency and spectrum licence applications. The personal information may include name and contact information.

  Class of individuals: The information relates to applicants of radio station and spectrum licences.

  Purpose: The personal information is used to ensure regulatory requirements are met for the issuance and management of radio/spectrum licences.

  Consistent uses: For the administration of the program.

  Retention and disposal standards: Records will be retained for 10 years after cancellation, expiration, withdrawal, suspension or revocation and then are destroyed.

  RDA number: 2016/07

  Related record number: OS-SO-PRO-030-01

  TBS registration: 004152

  Bank number: ISED PPU 083

• Spectrum/Telecommunications Client Operation File (Radio Operator Certification Personal Information Bank)

  Description: This bank describes information that is related to amateur and professional radio operators. The personal information may include name, date of birth, radio operator certificate number, class of certificate, and date of issue of certificate.

  Class of individuals: This information relates to radio operators.

  Purpose: The personal information is used to establish eligibility for radio operator certificates and to maintain a list of amateur and professional radio operators holding certificates of proficiency for the appropriate type of service. Concerning amateur radio operators specifically, the intent was to establish and maintain a list of amateurs' certificate qualifications and call sign information for public dissemination, sharing and reproduction by anyone, in order that all amateurs would be aware that the frequencies and emissions of other amateurs with whom they may communicate have been authorized to be used pursuant to the Radiocommunications Act. Personal information is collected pursuant to the Radiocommunications Act.

  Consistent uses: There are no consistent uses for this PIB.

  Retention and disposal standards: For amateurs, files are retained two years after the certificate is invalid, for professionals—20 years (5 active and 15 dormant). Operators' examination results are retained for five years (active for two and dormant for three). Radio Operator Certificates records are retained for 20 years (active for 5 and dormant for 15). Destruction through agreement with Library and Archives Canada.

  RDA number: 2016/007

  Related record number: OS-SO-PRO-040-02

  TBS registration: 003387

  Bank number: ISED PPU 019

• Telecommunications Engineering and Certification Personal Information Bank

  Description: This bank describes information that is related to memberships in various committees such as national standards committees on telecommunications and information technology. The personal information may include name, contact information and professional title.

  Class of individuals: Members of various committees, such as national standards committee.

  Purpose: The personal information is used to disseminate information on standards and administer national standards committees.

  Consistent uses: There are no consistent uses for this PIB.

  Retention and disposal standards: Records will be retained for 10 years after last administrative action and then are destroyed.

  RDA number: 79/002

  Related record number: ISED SIT 925

  TBS registration: 003389

  Bank number: ISED PPU 023

• Spectrum/Telecommunications Client Operation File (Radio Station/Spectrum Licensing) Personal Information Bank

  Description: This bank describes information that is related to non-broadcasting radio/spectrum licensing information, derived from applications submitted by applicants for radio/spectrum licences. It contains information such as radio frequencies, call signs, emissions, station location. The personal information may include name and contact information.

  Class of individuals: This information relates to applicants and holders of radio/spectrum licences.

  Purpose: Information was obtained in order to license and control the use of all non-broadcasting radio station systems in Canada for the planning and management of the radio frequency spectrum. In particular, this bank is used in the frequency selection process for new or existing stations and in associated electromagnetic compatibility studies. It also provides information needed for the identification of sources of interstation interference, policy formulation and frequency utilization study purposes. It is used extensively to carry out our coordination obligations as per the terms of cross-border sharing arrangements with the United States. The licensee and licence fee accounting information is used for the collection of annual licence renewal fees. In most cases, the information that appears on the face of radio/spectrum licences is available for release upon request. Information such as names and addresses of licensees, assigned radio frequencies, call signs, emissions, band width and power is provided to selected government bodies, persons or companies in connection with frequency coordination procedures for station or system planning, for reference or for similar purposes. Personal information is collected pursuant to the Radiocommunications Act.

  Consistent uses: The information may be used or disclosed for the following purposes: part of this information is shared with the following organizations, agencies and government departments: Fisheries and Oceans Canada to enable them to invoice ship-to-shore services; the Canadian Coast Guard to ascertain whether a vessel has a valid radio equipment licence prior to placing telephone calls or passing traffic; a call sign and/or name is provided to the Search and Rescue Coordination Centre so that vessel/aircraft routes may be established to facilitate the location of lost vessels or aircraft; various agencies and organizations in Canada and the U.S. for coordination of frequencies and system parameters; law enforcement agencies for investigations relating to offences under the Radiocommunication Act; organizations providing radio services to the public in order to establish that their clientele is licensed; equipment suppliers to facilitate the commissioning of their clients' communications systems; and Fisheries and Oceans Canada, National Defence and other organizations to provide information on privately operated non-directional navigation beacons in the interest of safety.

  Retention and disposal standards: Records will be retained for 10 years after last administrative action (e.g. cancellation, suspension, revocation) and then are transferred to Library and Archives Canada (LAC) as archival records.

  RDA number: 2016/007

  Related record number: OS-SO-PRO-040-02

  TBS registration: 003388

  Bank number: ISED PPU 021

Radio Advisory Board of Canada

Description: The Radio Advisory Board of Canada (RABC) provides advice and makes recommendations on the technical standards for radiocommunication and telecommunication apparatus.

Document types: Information relating to composition and administration of the Radio Advisory Board of Canada.

Record number: OS-SO-PRO-010-01

International treaties

Description: Radio spectrum crosses national borders. In order to make effective use of the resource, a variety of international frameworks and treaties govern the use of spectrum along borders, as well as around the world. As interoperability is a crucial element of information and communications technology (ICT) systems, international standardization is essential in this area. The program develops, in consultation with a variety of stakeholders, Canadian positions on issues relating to spectrum, telecom, and ICT. Subsequently, the program advocates for these positions at international fora. The outcome associated with these outputs is that international frameworks support spectrum management and telecommunications/ICTs in Canada.

Document types: Information pertaining to the development and management of international treaties and frameworks in relation to radio spectrum.

Record number: OS-SO-PRO-010-01

Spectrum auctions

General: ISED makes radiofrequency spectrum available for wireless telecommunications services, including mobile, wireless broadband and satellite, with the overall objective of maximizing the benefit that Canadians derive from this resource. Auctions are typically used when demand for a particular band of frequencies is expected to exceed supply, as auctions are an efficient, fair and transparent market-based means of assigning spectrum licences. The purposes of an auction are: to have a process that leads to an efficient assignment of the spectrum; to encourage the timely deployment of services; to give Canadians a fair return on a valuable public resource; and to give effect to policy direction, such as support for competition and rural connectivity. Spectrum auctions are developed over a number of years and all decisions on the elements of the process are made following public consultations

Spectrum auction framework

Description: Records created during the repurposing of radiofrequency spectrum and the development of spectrum auction frameworks. This includes material related to the drafting of public consultations and decisions on the technical, policy and licensing considerations required to make spectrum available via auction or other licensing process.

Document types: Issue papers; working group documents; briefing notes; PowerPoint presentations; consultations and decision papers; comments submitted under public consultations and the related analysis of comments received; communications products; and technical and economic analyses

Record number: IS-SI-01-010-07

Spectrum auction operations

Description: This program area is responsible for the development, launch and administration of spectrum auction processes.

Document type: Application forms; applicant data; financial information; applicant evaluation; tables of key dates; contracts; bidder training material; software information; consultant reports; communication products; briefing material; auction results; analysis of results; bidding data; and information created during the development of spectrum auction processes, including planning, organizing, application processes, bidder training material, development of auction software, and IT material.

Record number: IS-SI-05-01

Communications Research Centre

Description: The Communications Research Centre Canada (CRCC) conducts research on advanced telecommunications and information technologies to ensure an unbiased, evidence-based source of advice for public policy and the development of knowledge and tools to support the Spectrum and Telecommunications (STS) sector. Advanced wireless telecommunications research and development (R&D) activities are carried out in support of a sustainable spectrum management program that can address evolving wireless technologies and the social and economic demands for reliable connectivity. To further the R&D, public-private and public academic collaboration opportunities are established. To transfer the knowledge gained and help inform stakeholders, research results are made publicly available via patent licensing and publications. In addition, research facilities and test beds at various locations are maintained and shared to enable research.

The CRCC houses knowledge that informs the development of policy, standards and regulations, the deployment and use of laboratory facilities, including broadband communications infrastructure for research purposes, the development of knowledge and expertise in selected areas of communications technologies applications to assist other departments, and the explorations of new areas of wireless communications technology helping to prepare Canada for a new generation of wireless technologies and to help connect Canadians by sharing knowledge that would otherwise be difficult to obtain.

Document types: Scientific publications; technical reports; statements of work; proposals; memoranda; project plans; gating (project management) reports; surveys; statistical reports; briefing notes; assessments; contracts; evaluation criteria; procedures; policies; implementation reports; patents and copyrights; practices; business models; technical memos; and collaboration and licensing agreements.

Record number: IS-SI-01-010-07

Digital Service

While the Digital Service Program (Digital Government for Business Program) appears in ISED's Departmental Results Framework for 2021-22, the program no longer exists, and there are no specific information holdings under retention from this program.

Economic outcomes from procurement

The economic outcomes from procurement programs implement the Defence Procurement Strategy, which includes the Industrial and Technological Benefits (ITB) Policy and the weighted and rated Value Proposition (VP). The ITB Policy, including the VP, ensures that Canada's significant investment in defence-related goods and services supports the long-term sustainability and growth of Canada's defence and security industry. It also manages the monitoring and verification of Contractor obligations of the former industrial and regional Benefits Policy.

Also included under this group of programs, is the implementation of the National Shipbuilding Strategy Value Proposition, which contributes to the development and sustainability of the greater Canadian marine industry.

Industrial and technological benefits

Description: Canada's Industrial and Technological Benefits (ITB) Policy, including the Value Proposition, leverages defence and Canadian Coast Guard procurements to contribute to job, innovation and economic growth across Canada. Under the Policy, companies that are awarded defence procurement contracts are contractually required to undertake business activity in Canada equal to the value of the contracts they have won. The business activities must be in advanced technology sectors and can be either directly or indirectly related to the procured item to ensure that Canadian companies can derive benefits from federal procurements. The ITB Policy is the Canadian version of the industrial participation policies practised in over 100 countries.

Document types: Briefing notes; issue notes; cabinet documents; correspondence; emails; Question Period cards; decks; reports; applications; reviews and audits; and reports on business transactions resulting from the ITB Policy and prime contractor investment into the economy.

Record number: IS-SI-01-010-07

National Shipbuilding Strategy Value Proposition (NSS VP)

Description: The NSS VP is designed to benefit the greater Canadian marine industry to help ensure its long-term sustainability. Under the NSS VP, strategic partner shipyards are required to invest an amount equal to 0.5% of the value of the awarded large vessel NSS contracts to support human resources development, technology investment and industrial development.

Document types: Briefing notes; issue notes; Cabinet documents; correspondence; emails; Question Period cards; decks; reports; applications and assessments; and reports on proposed and approved programs.

Record number: IS-SI-01-010-07

Tourism

The Tourism programs are responsible for federal tourism policy development and integration, including Canada's New Tourism Vision, to bring greater consistency to the policies and programs that support growth in the Canadian tourism sector. These programs work with other federal government departments and agencies, tourism industry representatives, and provincial and territorial governments to address current and emerging tourism issues and opportunities in support of a competitive tourism sector in Canada. The Tourism programs also serve as the policy liaison between the Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, the Minister of Tourism, and Destination Canada, and as the federal secretariat for the Canadian Council of Tourism Ministers (CCTM).

Tourism (coordination & oversight)

Description: Research supporting federal initiatives for tourism, the analysis of tourism issues, the development of policy and program options relating to the Canadian tourism sector's interests within the Department, across the federal government, and with other jurisdictions.

Document types: Briefing Notes; Cabinet documents; correspondence; emails; Question Period cards; presentation decks; industry profiles; statistical reports: meeting agendas and minutes; inventories of federal initiatives, spending, and recommendations; policy development; and research, analysis and briefings relating to Destination Canada's public and corporate planning and reporting requirements.

Record number: IS-SI-01-010-07

Tourism Relief Fund – National Priorities Stream

Description: This contribution program supports the advancement of Federal Tourism Growth Strategy priorities. The funding provides opportunities to leverage the reach and expertise of national tourism organizations to expand and diversify tourism offerings, as well as address challenges facing the tourism sector as it recovers from the impact of COVID-19 and positions itself for sustainable growth.

Document types: Briefing Notes; Cabinet documents; correspondence; emails; Question Period cards; decks; industry profiles; statistical reports; meeting agendas and minutes; and inventories of federal initiatives, spending, and recommendations.

Record number: IS-SI-01-010-07

Support for small business

The support for small business programs provide support and financing to small and medium sized enterprises (SME) to help ensure Canadian companies are globally competitive, achieve high growth and have access to financing that would not otherwise be available or would be available only under less favorable terms. The programs also provide oversight and challenge functions for the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC), and promote understanding of the challenges small businesses face in adopting business practices that help them grow.

These programs provide loan guarantees to SMEs through the Canada Small Business Financing Program (CSBFP) and the Venture Capital Catalyst Initiative (VCCI) delivered by BDC. The Support for Small Business programs support the departmental results, "Canadian businesses and industries are innovative and growing" and, "Business investors and consumers are confident in the Canadian marketplace, including the digital economy" under the Companies, Investment, and Growth Core Responsibility.

The Canada Small Business Financing Program (CSBFP) is a statutory program designed to increase the availability of financing for the establishment, expansion, modernization and improvement of small businesses. In 2021-22, the CSBFP will consider and address recommendations to improve the program resulting from the five-year Comprehensive Review Report recently tabled in both Houses of Parliament. Furthermore, under ISED's Mobilizing SMEs to Export Initiative, the Department will invest in the Trade Accelerator Program to encourage promising small businesses to export and ensure they have the support needed to do so.

Transitioning to a digital economy brings many opportunities, but also new challenges for Canadian individuals and businesses, including cyber threats. ISED continues to support Canada's National Cyber Security Strategy to help SMEs protect themselves from cyber threats. This includes implementing, overseeing and evaluating the cyber certification program, CyberSecure Canada. This program is a collaboration between ISED, the Communications Security Establishment and the Standards Council of Canada, and helps SMEs protect themselves against cyber threats. In 2021–22, ISED continued to roll out tools and supports to help Canadian business become more cyber secure, including the launch of an e-learning series—a 16-module educational resource—to help improve the cyber security knowledge of SMEs, that has been well received.

More modern rules and business conditions to spur innovation and respond to shifts in business are essential to supporting Canadian businesses. Adapting to new challenges and pivoting industries includes supporting talent development to shape a resilient workforce capable of building a strong and agile economy. ISED will maintain funding to the Business + Higher Education Roundtable (BHER) to create up to 44,000 annual work-integrated learning opportunities for students across Canada by 2021–22.

Canada Small Business Financing Program (CSBFP)

Description: The Canada Small Business Financing Program (CSBFP) helps Canadian small businesses access financing that would not otherwise be available or would be available only under less favourable terms. It is a loan loss-sharing program involving partnerships with financial institutions. To be eligible, borrowers must be businesses with revenues of up to $10 million per year. Under the program, financial institutions can make term loans on real property, leasehold improvements and equipment. In the event that a registered loan defaults, the Government of Canada pays 85% of net eligible losses. The CSBFP is a national program that operates in all provinces and territories.

Document types: Registration forms; Claims for Loss Forms; contracts; requests for proposals; evaluation criteria; evaluations; memoranda; guidelines; policies; project plans; research reports; briefing notes; invoices; audits; assessments; letters/correspondence; compliance reviews; and general information on program operations and service delivery.

Record number: IS-SI-01-010-07

Venture Capital Catalyst Initiative (VCCI)

Description: Introduced in Budget 2017 and expanded in the 2018 Fall Economic Statement, the Venture Capital Catalyst Initiative (VCCI) started reporting in 2020 and will continue through 2035. VCCI invested $371 million through three funding streams to help Canada's innovative companies develop their ideas, market new products, and create jobs by increasing the availability of venture capital in Canada. VCCI provides targeted support for emerging and diverse fund managers, undeserved regions and sectors, alternative fund structures, and the clean technology sector. The renewal of the program was announced in Budget 2021, began in 2022 and will be reporting from 2023 through to 2040. Up to $450 million will be made available through three streams of investments to increase the availability of capital for Canada's most promising firms, including targeted support for those in the life sciences sector and for entrepreneurs from traditionally underrepresented groups.

Document types: Briefing notes; program reports and indicators; letters/correspondence; policy materials; long-term economic and financial performance of funds, funds-of-funds, and companies backed by VCCI; information on the amount of investments from funds and funds-of-funds supported by VCCI; financial returns of the renewed VCCI; and gender data for supported funds, funds-of-funds, underlying funds and portfolio companies.

Record number: OS-SO-PRO-010-01

Cyber Secure Canada program

Description: CyberSecure Canada is a voluntary certificate program for Canadian business. CyberSecure Canada aims to educate businesses on the importance of cyber security to thrive in a digital economy, including through a 16-module e-learning series that was launched in November 2021, that includes "how-to" guides, fillable templates and examples to help SMEs better understand cyber security and how to implement the program's baseline security controls. Given the increasing frequency of cyberattacks since the COVID-19 pandemic began, where more businesses adopted an online presence, the tools that the program offers are very important to support businesses to better understand cyber security and what actions SMEs can take to protect their businesses.

To encourage businesses to obtain certification, the program focused on outreach efforts to raise awareness about the program, and worked with key stakeholders to encourage businesses to achieve certification. Engagement efforts have included working with regional economic development agencies, and business associations representing the small business sector, such as the Canadian Chamber of Commerce. In addition, the program has administered digital advertising campaigns to raise awareness and drive businesses to the program website to learn more about the program and to understand the benefits of certification.

Lastly, to support businesses on their certification journeys, a free, bilingual e-learning series of 14 modules is available, along with "how-to" guides, fillable templates and examples to support businesses, on ISED's website to help SMEs better understand cyber security and how to implement the program's baseline security controls.

Document types: Information relating to the administration, delivery, design, and communications for the CyberSecure Canada Program; information on registered users, including course completion certificates; briefing notes; minutes; reports; statements of work; and contracts.

Record number: IS-SI-01-010-07

Talent development

The Talent Development programs provide analysis and advice, and develop policies and programs to build the knowledge and skills of Canadians to ensure they are equipped with the skills and tools needed by industry to participate in an innovative economy. This is accomplished through:

• Engagement with various stakeholders;
• Conducting analysis and developing policy advice related to talent development;
• Administering contribution agreements that support the development of industry-led skills solutions, support youth engagement in science, technology, engineering and math, create opportunities for skills development through training, and industry-academia collaboration for youth internships; and
• Administering the Prime Ministers Awards to honour and promote Canada's most outstanding educators and share their innovative and proven teaching practices.

Delivery of these programs is guided by the overarching goals of diversity and inclusion, including gender equality. These programs include the following transfer payments: CanCode (formerly Coding for Kids), Digital Skills for Youth (DS4Y), Let's talk Science, Mitacs, the Business/Higher Education Roundtable, Prime Minister's Awards, and computers for Schools Intern Program.

Mitacs

Description: Mitacs is a single recipient, non-repayable contribution program. It has the objective of promoting high-quality research and innovation across Canada by building linkages between academia and industry in all academic disciplines through internships and professional skills training for post-secondary students, recent graduates, and postdoctoral fellows. It also provides entrepreneurs opportunities to connect with potential international clients and investors through internships in post-secondary-linked incubators operating in partner countries. The only eligible recipient is Mitacs Inc., a not-for-profit research organization. Ultimate recipients include post-secondary students, post-secondary institutions and research networks.

Document types: Written recommendations; working papers; research documentation; agendas; briefings; supporting documentation; meeting minutes; Board of Director meeting materials; payment documents; correspondence; Treasury Board Submissions; funding agreements; annual reports and corporate plans from recipients; contracts; audits & evaluations; information on program design; progress reports; and policy and analytical materials concerning the management, performance, and outcomes of funding.

Record number: IS-SI-01-010-07

Let's Talk Science

Description: Let's Talk Science is a single recipient, non-repayable contribution program. Its purpose is to build Canadian youth interest and intention to pursue science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education and occupations to ensure that they are prepared to meet the evolving demands of a global economy and to position Canada to realize economic, social, and in some cases, environmental benefits.

Document types: Written recommendations; working papers; research documentation; agendas; briefings; supporting documentation; meeting minutes; Board of Director meeting materials; payment documents; correspondence; Treasury Board Submissions; funding agreements; annual reports and corporate plans from recipients; contracts; audits & evaluations; program design and progress reports; and analytical materials concerning the management, performance, and outcomes of funding.

Record number: IS-SI-01-010-07

CanCode, Digital Skills for Youth (DS4Y), Prime Minister's Awards (PMA), and Computers for Schools Intern (CFSI) program

Description: These four programs aim to improve digital and technical skills in Youth and underrepresented groups through education and internships to enhance digital literacy, employability and marketability. The programs provides access to valuable work experience and training aimed toward developing and enhancing advanced digital skills, such as coding, data analytics, and digital content development. CanCode and PMA also support initiatives that provide teachers with the training, professional development and recognition they need to introduce digital skills and coding related concepts into the classroom.

Document types: Information related to the development and implementation of the programs, including the launch of application intake, applications received through the intake and their assessment; records of negotiation with funding recipients; contracts; communications materials; briefing and decision notes; Treasury Board Submissions; terms and conditions; policies; guidelines; procedures; and activity reports.

Record number: IS-SI-05-02

• National Access Program (DS4Y and CFSI Programs) personal information bank

  Description of records: This bank describes information that is related to Industry Canada Youth Employment Strategy Programs, including Community Access Program, Youth Employment Program, and Computers for Schools' Technical Work Experience Program. The personal information may include name, contact information, employment equity information and rated experiences.

  Class of individuals: Youth and/or Contractors (for Canada's Digital Collections) who have or who are currently participating in Industry Canada's Youth Employment Strategy Programs.

  Purpose: The personal information is used to evaluate the programs' success and measure the impacts of the programs on youth employment and skills development over the long term.

  Consistent uses: The information may be used or disclosed for the following purposes: by program management to track the youth and to survey them at a later date. Such longitudinal information is absolutely necessary for the determination of the program's impacts, but also for ongoing management purposes, as it will provide vital information on the efficiency and cost effectiveness of the program. This will be necessary to guide management in any potential changes in program direction that may be required over time.

  Retention and disposal standards: Records will be retained for up 10 years after the study or survey has ceased or been implemented and then are transferred to Library and Archives Canada (LAC) as archival records.

  RDA number: 2016/007

  Related record number: IS-SI-05-02 OS-SO-PRO-030-01

  TBS registration: 005068

  Bank number: ISED PPU 067, Related Bank Number: ESDC PPU 706

• Prime Minister's Awards for Teaching Excellence and Prime Minister's Awards for Excellence in Early Childhood Education (ECE) personal information bank

  Description: This bank describes information that is related to nomination submissions for the Prime Minister's Awards, which includes signed nomination forms. The personal information may include names, contact information, teaching/training certifications, operating licenses letters of experience, and letters of support.

  Class of individuals: The personal information relates to teachers, of kindergarten to grade 12, early childhood educators and school/learning setting administrators.

  Purpose: The personal information is used to select recipients for the awards and promotes their achievement.

  Consistent uses: There are no consistent uses for this PIB.

  Retention and disposal standards: Records will be retained for up to 10 years after file closure and then are destroyed.

  RDA number: 2016/007

  Related record number: OS-SO-PRO-030-01

  TBS registration: 002915

  Bank number: ISED PPU 001

Business + Higher Education Roundtable

Description: The Business + Higher Education Roundtable (BHER) is a non repayable, single recipient contribution program. It has the objective of leveraging the strengths of Canadian businesses, universities and colleges to deepen collaboration and improve opportunities for young Canadians. The only eligible recipient of this contribution is the Business + Higher Education Roundtable, a national not-for-profit organization. The current investment is directed towards generating new, unsubsidized work-integrated learning (WIL) placements and strengthen BHER's role as a national convener in Canada's WIL ecosystem.

Document types: Briefing notes; funding proposals; performance data; strategic analysis; minutes of meetings; evaluations and assessments; claims forms; annual and quarterly reports; contribution agreements; Treasury Board documents.

Record number: IS-SI-01-010-07

Upskilling for Industry Initiative

Description: The Upskilling for Industry Initiative (UII) scales-up employer-led approaches to upskilling and redeploying workers to meet the needs of six identified high-growth industries: digital technology; cyber security; agriculture technology; advanced manufacturing; clean technology; and biomanufacturing. This work is done by providing non-repayable contributions to a lead recipient who, along with their network and delivery partners, engage employers in the upskilling ecosystem to identify skills needs and develop new curricula and upskilling programs to meet those industry needs. Ultimately, the UII seeks to foster a more responsive skills ecosystem to changing labour demand across Canada, while upskilling a goal of 15,500 mid-career workers.

Document types: Treasury Board documents; briefing notes; applicant guide; project proposals; proposal assessment grids; draft contribution agreements; records of discussion; strategic analyses; and internal and external research and reports.

Record number: IS-SI-01-010-07

Program inventory

Program inventory

Support for underrepresented entrepreneurs

In-line with ISED's objective to ensure that people and communities from all segments of Canadian society participate in the economy, the Department will continue supporting underrepresented communities.

Futurpreneur

Description: Futurpreneur Canada (FC) is a non-repayable, single recipient contribution sub-program, with Futurpreneur—a not-for-profit organization—being the sole recipient. It has the objective of providing loans, mentoring and business support tools to young Canadian entrepreneurs, who have been traditionally underserved by mainstream lending institutions. Eligible recipients are entrepreneurs aged 18-39 who are operating or about to operate a business in Canada.

Budget 2019 renewed funding for this initiative, with $38 million over five years, starting in 2019–20. This funding includes $3 million over five years to provide targeted support to Indigenous entrepreneurs. In April 2020, the Government of Canada committed to provide $20.1 million to FC in order to support young entrepreneurs in the wake of COVID-19. The maximum contribution amount will be the overall contributions approved through Government of Canada Budgets and off-cycle decisions. This initiative enables Futurpreneur to support young entrepreneurs by providing loan payment relief to all its clients and top-up loans of up to $10,000. In 2021-2022, the target for Futurpreneur is to provide mentorship to at least 1,000 youth annually.

Document types: General information on program operations and service delivery; contribution agreement with the single recipient; information on the number of businesses supported, and the funding delivered to those businesses; recipient diversity metrics; briefing notes, program reports and indicators; letters/correspondence; and policy materials.

Record number: OS-SO-PRO-010-01, OS-SO-PRO-040-01

Black Entrepreneurship Program (BEP)

The Department is committed to working with Black business owners and Black-led organizations across Canada and to continue delivering the Black Entrepreneurship Program (BEP) that reflects the realities and needs of Black Canadians. The BEP aims to help Black Canadian business owners and entrepreneurs grow their businesses and succeed now and into the future. As part of this program, the Black Entrepreneurship Loan Fund provides loans to Black business owners and entrepreneurs.

Description: The Black Entrepreneurship sub-Program (BEP), through its three initiatives, aims to break down systematic barriers to starting, maintaining, and growing businesses among Black entrepreneurs, by providing targeted support to enhance overall sustainability and drive growth, competitiveness, innovation, and productivity toward broader economic and social benefits:

• The BEP Ecosystem Fund, managed through the Regional Development Agencies, provides financial support to Black-led support organizations that provide business advisory services to Black entrepreneurs, allowing them to increase their existing offerings and grow the number of businesses they support.
• The Knowledge Hub increases the research and data on Black entrepreneurship in Canada through advancing evidence-based research, identifying critical gaps, and strengthening coordination of support for Black entrepreneurs.
• The Loan Fund, provides loans of up to $250,000 for Black business owners and entrepreneurs in partnership with the Business Development Bank of Canada. Investments through these streams contributes to creating more favorable conditions for Black entrepreneurs and businesses for starting, maintaining and growing a business.

Document types: General information on program operations and service delivery; contribution agreements with the Knowledge Hub recipient and the Loan Fund administrator (note: the Ecosystem Fund is delivered through the Regional Development Agencies); information on the number of businesses supported; information on research projects conducted; recipient diversity metrics; other contribution agreements; briefing notes; program reports and indicators; letters/correspondence; and policy materials.

Record number: OS-SO-PRO-010-01, OS-SO-PRO-040-01

Mobilizing SMEs to Export Initiative – Trade Accelerator Program (TAP)

Description: The Mobilizing SMEs to Export Initiative supports the federal government's export diversification priority through the delivery of the Trade Accelerator Program (TAP). The initiative seeks to deepen Canadian SME awareness of the export supports and services available to them, and increase export-oriented SME export capacity through training.

This transfer payment program started in 2019 and will end in March 2023.

Document types: General information on program operations and service delivery; contribution agreements; information on the number of businesses supported and the funding delivered to those businesses; recipient diversity metrics; briefing notes; program reports and indicators; letters/correspondence; and policy materials.

Record number: OS-SO-PRO-010-01, OS-SO-PRO-040-01

Small Business and Entrepreneurship Development Program (SBED)

Description: The Small Business and Entrepreneurship Development Sub-Program (SBED) aims to break down barriers for SMEs across Canada—particularly equity deserving groups—to starting, maintaining, and growing a business, by providing targeted support to enhance overall sustainability, and to drive growth, competitiveness, innovation, and productivity toward broader economic and social benefits. Initiatives under the SBED align with one or more of the following objectives:

• Strengthening Canada's entrepreneurship ecosystem to be more accessible for small businesses and entrepreneurs, including those owned by equity deserving groups;
• Increasing opportunities for SMEs to start, scale, grow, and maintain a business and/or adjust to new economic realities; and
• Build awareness of issues faced by entrepreneurs, particularly equity deserving groups, to improve coordination of supports and close gaps in service.

Assistance for the SBED will be in the form of non-repayable contributions.

Documents types: Contribution agreements; briefing notes; program reports and indicators; letters/correspondence; and policy materials.

Record number: OS-SO-PRO-010-01

Canada Digital Adoption Program (CDAP)

Stream 1 (Grow Your Business Online)

Description: The Canada Digital Adoption Program – Grow Your Business Online Stream is designed to help consumer-facing businesses across Canada digitize and take advantage of e-commerce opportunities. It aims to help Canadian small businesses adopt e-commerce digital technologies as well as to provide training and work opportunities for youth (as e-commerce advisors). Eligible businesses will receive micro-grants of up to $2,400 to help with the costs related to adopting digital technologies as well as support and advice from a network of e-commerce advisors.

Grow Your Business Online is delivered by third party, not-for-profit organizations (service providers) who receive non-repayable contributions. These service providers are responsible for providing micro-grants and e-commerce advisory services as well as hiring, training and assigning job placements to youth as e-commerce advisors.

This transfer payment program was launched in March 2022, will end in March 2025 and is appropriated annually through Budget Estimates.

Document types: General information on the operation of the program; service delivery information; contribution agreements; information on the businesses and e-commerce advisors supported by Grow Your Business Online; application-related and assessment-related documents including letters/correspondence, emails, claims-related documents, grant and contribution proposal summary forms; program analyses; policy materials including briefing notes and other briefing documents, decks, Treasury Board submissions, reports, program development documents, program management documents, communications-related documents, legal opinions, and process documents.

Stream 2 (Boost Your Business Technology)

Description: The Canada Digital Adoption Program – Boost Your Business Technology Stream supports Canadian SMEs that are looking to leverage new technology to improve productivity, increase efficiency and foster innovation. The program provides funding and expertise to businesses, as well as training and work placement opportunities for youth.

Boost Your Business Technology offers support in the form of grants to help SMEs offset the cost of retaining a Digital Advisor who will develop a digital adoption plan tailored to the business. The grant will cover up to 90% of the cost to develop the digital plan, up to a maximum grant value of $15,000.

Document types: Application-related files and correspondence; surveys; annual reports; legal opinions; statistical reports; guidelines; directives:, copies of audits; analysis of programs related materials; and contracts.

Record number: OS-SO-PRO-010-01, OS-SO-PRO-020-01

• CDAP Clients and Digital Advisors Personal Information Bank

  Description: This personal information bank contains information about two groups of people: (1) Persons who self-identify as the authorized business contact for clients (businesses) participating in the CDAP (who may also be self-representing sole proprietors), and (2) Persons who wish to serve as Digital Advisors, working with the aforementioned business clients to deploy digital adoption plans for the respective businesses. In the case of business contacts, the personal information collected will include the name, date of birth, business telephone number, business email, physical address, and views/opinions provided in experience feedback surveys. In the case of Digital Advisor applicants, the personal information will include the name, the individual's employer (unless the individual is a sole proprietor of self-employed), the individual's business contact information, the individual's curriculum vitae and the individual's criminal records check.

  Class of individuals: Individuals who are the authorized representatives of business clients participating in the CDAP, and individuals who wish to serve as Digital Advisors to those businesses.

  Purpose: In the case of the business contacts of CDAP clients, the personal information is used solely to contact the individual in order to conduct business with them in respect of the business client they represent. In the case of Digital Advisor applicants, the curriculum vitae is used to assess the candidate's professional qualifications and ability to serve as a Digital Advisor, and the criminal records check is used to assess the candidate's reliability and suitability to serve as a Digital Advisor. All personal information is collected pursuant to subsections 4 (1)(n), 5 (d) and (f) and 6 (a) and (c) of the Department of Industry Act.

  Consistent uses: In the case of the business contacts of CDAP clients, the personal information will be shared with Business Development Canada (BDC) so that BDC can deal with the business representative to establish loans for the business clients they represent. The BDC PIB detailing its collection of personal information for this purpose is BDC PPU 050 (Loan Application – Client Files). The business contact information will also be shared with third party delivery organizations, such as grant administration organizations (for the purpose of dealing with the business contact to disburse grant funding on behalf of the business they represent), student placement organizations (for the purpose of working with the business contact to arrange for a student placement for the business they represent) and Digital Advisor candidates and their employers (for the purpose of engaging with a Digital Advisor on behalf of the business they represent). In the case of curricula vitae and criminal records checks of Digital Advisor candidates, there is no onward-sharing and no other consistent uses—such information will not be disclosed to any other parties once received by ISED.

  Retention and disposal standards: Business contact personal information as well as Digital Advisor personal information are both considered to be program delivery information and will be retained by ISED ten years, and then destroyed.

  RDA number: 2016-007

  Related record number:

  OS-SO-PRO-010-01
  (CDAP Program Design Information)

  OS-SO-PRO-020-01
  (CDAP Communications Information)

  TBS registration: 20210082

  Bank number: ISED PPU 201

Diverse and Inclusive Economy sub-Program – 50/30 Challenge

Description: The 50/30 Challenge Ecosystem Fund provides funding to successful organizations, known as ecosystem partners, to help 50/30 Challenge participants meet diversity and inclusion goals. The Ecosystem partners support participants by linking them to best practices and tools, providing guidance and advising on other diversity supports specific to each organization's unique needs. The Ecosystem partners also promote the What Works Toolkit, and report on the progress of 50/30 participants to Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada. Ecosystem partners are awarded a three year, non-repayable contribution agreement with a minimum value of $3 million and a maximum value of $10 million.

Document types: General information on program operations and service delivery; contribution agreements; information on the businesses signed-on to the challenge; information on the number of businesses supported through ecosystem partners; briefing notes; program reports and indicators; letters/correspondence; and policy materials.

Record number: OS-SO-PRO-010-01

Women Entrepreneurship Strategy (WES)

Description: The Women Entrepreneurship Strategy (WES) provides nationally coordinated, regionally tailored investments to help women entrepreneurs and supports regional innovation ecosystems through multiple program streams:

• WES Ecosystem Fund: A sub-program designed to help not-for-profit, third-party organizations deliver support for women entrepreneurs and address gaps in the ecosystem. In addition to an initial $100 million Ecosystem investment in 2018 and 2020, through Budget 2021, the WES Ecosystem Fund received $65 million in additional funding (through the Small Business and Entrepreneurship Development Program) to further address gaps in the entrepreneurship ecosystem. Total program investment since 2018 is $165 million.
• Women Entrepreneurship Loan Fund: This program is designed to provide affordable financing in smaller amounts for women entrepreneurs, and address under-served, diverse women entrepreneurs.
• Women Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub: The objective of the program is to establish a knowledge centre that will advance evidence-based research and strengthen coordination of support for women entrepreneurs.

These transfer payment programs started in 2018-19 (WES Ecosystem Fund) and 2022-23 (Women Entrepreneurship Loan Fund and Inclusive Women Venture Capital Initiative) and will end by 2024-25. The Women Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub started in 2018 and will end by 2023-24. These initiatives are appropriated annually through Budget Estimates.

Document types: General information on program operations and service delivery; contribution agreements; information on the research projects supported; recipient diversity metrics; briefing notes; program reports and indicators; letters/correspondence; and policy materials.

Record number: OS-SO-PRO-010-01, OS-SO-PRO-040-01

Women Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub

Description: The Women Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub (WEKH) is a non-repayable contribution sub-program. The objective of this program is to establish a knowledge centre that will advance evidence-based research and strengthen coordination of support for women entrepreneurs. Budget 2021 provided $5 million over three years to ensure the on-going organizational stability and service levels of WEKH are maintained during the COVID-19 recovery period. Funding since 2018 totals $13.6 million. Starting April 1, 2022, the WEKH will be administered under the same terms and conditions as all Women Entrepreneurship Strategy initiatives.

Document types: Contribution agreements; briefing notes; program reports and indicators; letters/correspondence; and policy materials.

Record number: OS-SO-PRO-010-01

Bridging digital divides

These programs provide Canadians with the necessary access, tools and skills to participate in a digital economy. They contribute to a highly-skilled workforce that is equipped for jobs in an innovative and high-growth economy and ensure communities are connected, digitally engaged and economically diverse. Under these programs, current maps of broadband coverage across Canada are maintained, and used to support the extension of broadband infrastructure in undeserved areas. In addition, these programs refurbish computers donated from government, private business and individuals for use by schools, libraries, registered not-for-profit organizations and Indigenous communities. These programs support digital connectivity, tools and skills development for undeserved and under-represented people, including those with low-incomes, rural and remote households, seniors, people with disabilities, youth and Indigenous people.

Digital Literacy Exchange Program

Description: The second round of the Digital Literacy Exchange Program (DLEP) is investing $17.6 million to support initiatives aimed at teaching digital literacy skills to Canadians who face barriers to participating in the digital economy. The program seeks to support not-for-profit organizations in the development and delivery of fundamental digital literacy skills training to Canadians with a particular focus on Canadians from underrepresented groups who would benefit from increased participation in the digital economy.

Document types: Information related to the development and implementation of the program, including the launch of the program's application intake, applications received, and their assessments; records of negotiation with funding recipients; contracts; communications materials; briefing and decision notes related to the selection of applications and the program's policies; Treasury Board Submissions; Terms and Conditions; policies; guidelines; procedures; activity reports; and project plans.

Record number: IS-SI-010-07

Connecting Families Initiative

Description: The Connecting Families Initiative is a part of the suite of digital skills, accessibility and internet affordability sub-programs that aim to bridge the "digital divide" experienced by those in certain regions, sectors and socio-economic status groups. In 2022–23, this initiative will continue to help ensure that low-income families and low-income seniors who face affordability barriers can access home internet with an improved service that offers a broadband standard of 50/10 Mbps and 200 GB of data at affordable monthly rates.

Document types: Materials relating to the administration, delivery, design, development and communications of the Connecting Families Initiative; external reports; dashboard reports; program terms and conditions; guidelines and procedures; activity reports; project plans; briefing notes; and contribution agreements.

Record number: IS-SI-01-010-07

Accessible Technology Program

Description: The accessible Technology Development Program (ATP) has the objective of developing assistive technologies to enable Canadians living with disabilities to participate more fully in the digital economy. Eligible recipients are corporations incorporated in Canada, not for profit organizations, and research institutes. Budget 2017 provided funding of $22.3 million over five years to the program. The program was renewed for a second round, in Budget 2022, with a budget of $5.8 million over two years, starting in 2022-23.

Document types: Information related to the development and implementation of the program, including the launch of the program's application intake, and assessment; records of negotiations with funding recipients; contracts; communications materials; briefing and decision notes; Treasury Board Submissions; terms and conditions; policies; guidelines and procedures; and activity reports.

Record number: IS-SI-01-010-07

Computers for Schools Plus

Description: Through the Computers for Schools Plus (CFS+) program, donated surplus computer equipment and devices are refurbished, then distributed to schools, libraries, not for profit organizations, Indigenous communities and eligible low-income Canadians across Canada. Through this national partnership-based network, the program ensures improved access for Canadians to technology. The technical work experience program (TWEP), now known as the CFS Intern program (CFSI), provides the in-house workforce for the CFS+ program. Results stemming from CFSI are reported by Employment and Social Development Canada under the Youth Employment and Skills Strategy.

Document types: Applications; project summary forms; audits; evaluations; Treasury Board Submissions; statistical reports; briefing notes; letters of notification; assessments; risk analyses; claims; agreements; communications material; Memoranda to Cabinet; terms and conditions; policies; guidelines and procedures; environmental assessments; activity reports; project plans; surveys; and plans.

Record number: OS-SO-PRO-010-01

Connect to Innovate

Description: Remote and rural communities face unique challenges due to their geography and population size, presenting barriers to private sector investment in building, operating and maintaining infrastructure. ISED's Connect to Innovate (CTI) initiative is a $585 million program announced in Budget 2016 (originally as a $500 program) which funds projects that bring improved internet speeds to rural and remote communities in Canada. Budget 2019 announced an $85 million top-up to the program, as part of new investments to deliver high-speed internet to Canadians. This program primarily supports new "backbone" infrastructure to connect institutions like schools and hospitals. A portion of the funding also provides upgrades and "last-mile" infrastructure to households and businesses. By the time the program ends in 2023, nearly 400,000 Canadian households and 975 rural and remote communities will have new or improved internet access.

Document types: Records related to the development and implementation of the program, including the launch of the program's application intake, applications received through the intake and their assessment; records of negotiation with funding recipients and final contracts; communications materials; briefing and decision notes; Treasury Board Submissions; terms and conditions; policies; guidelines and procedures; environmental assessments; activity reports; and project plans.

Record number: OS-SO-PRO-030-01

Telesat Low Earth Orbit satellites

Description: ISED has entered into an agreement with Telesat to secure high-speed internet capacity on the company's Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite constellation. This capacity will be made available to internet service providers at a reduced rate in order to provide high-speed, reliable internet access to satellite-dependent communities.

Document types: Records related to negotiations with Telesat, including government decision making, legal opinions and final agreements; Treasury Board Submissions; contracts; and communications material.

Record number: OS-SO-PRO-030-01

Universal Broadband Fund

ISED's Universal Broadband Fund (UBF) is a pillar of Canada's Connectivity Strategy that supports investments in high-speed internet projects across the country. It is helping bridge the digital divide by building and improving connectivity in rural and remote regions. The UBF launched in November 2020 as a $1.75 billion initiative aiming to connect 98% of Canadians with high speed internet by 2026, and all Canadians by 2030. Budget 2021 increased its funding by $1 billion, and a further $475 million was added in fall 2022, for a total funding envelope of $3.225 billion. The UBF includes a $750 million funding stream for high-impact projects, a $50 million stream for mobile connectivity projects that primarily benefit Indigenous Peoples, and a Rapid Response Stream (RRS) that funds shovel-ready projects that can connect households quickly.

Document types: Material relating to the administration, delivery, design, development and communications of the program; news releases; speeches; presentations; application guide; information decks; project summary forms; recommendations; approval and rejection notifications; letters of offer; contribution agreements; contracts; financial documents; Memoranda of Understanding; Treasury Board Submissions; reports; dashboards; and audit & evaluation information.

Record number: OS-SO-PRO-030-01

Science and research

The Science and Research Program inventory supports the development of talent, research, research infrastructure and innovation in Canada's science and research sector and aims to enhance Canada's science, technology and innovation (STIn) excellence by mobilizing the expertise and resources of non-governmental science- and research-focussed organizations. The program provides analysis and advice, and develops policies and programs to maintain, safeguard and strengthen Canada's knowledge foundation and research excellence. This is accomplished by supporting research and development activities within the post-secondary sector, by consulting and collaborating with various stakeholders such as universities and colleges, ISED Portfolio partners (e.g., the granting agencies), science-based departments and agencies, and the private sector, and by developing and administering strategic funding agreements with third-party organizations.

Canada's Advanced Research and Innovation Network (CANARIE)

Description: Canada's Advanced Research and Innovation Network (CANARIE) is a non-repayable, single recipient contribution program. It has the objective of providing ultra high-speed networking capability to enable researchers to exchange large volumes of data obtained through the use of high-performance computing resources. CANARIE also supports private firms in advancing innovation and commercialization through the use of network technologies. Data is collected from various sources to document ISED's oversight and monitoring of funding agreements with the recipient organizations of the CANARIE Contribution Program. These records include policy and analytical materials concerning the management, performance, and outcomes of funding.

Document types: Written recommendations; working papers; research documentation; agendas; briefings; supporting documentation; meeting minutes; Board of Director meeting materials; payment documents; correspondence; Treasury Board Submissions; funding agreements; annual reports and corporate plans from recipients; contracts; audits & evaluations; program design information; and progress reports.

Record number: OS-SO-PRO-030-01

Canadian Institute for Advanced Research (CIFAR) and Pan-Canadian Artificial Intelligence Strategy (PCAIS)

Description: The Canadian Institute for Advanced Research (CIFAR) is a not-for-profit organization that supports networks of Canadian and international researchers who conduct international and interdisciplinary collaboration, and high-risk, high-impact research on important scientific, social and economic issues. Promoting world-class research partnerships and global talent networks helps build research and innovation capacity in Canada.

Currently, CIFAR supports 12 research programs that engage researchers across a range of fields including, for example, bio-inspired solar energy, human consciousness, child and brain development, and quantum materials and information processing.

CIFAR is also responsible for implementing the research and talent programs of the PCAIS. The only eligible recipient of funds under the program is CIFAR.

Document types: Written recommendations; working papers; research documentation; agendas; briefings; supporting documentation; meeting minutes; Board of Director meeting materials; payment documents; correspondence; Treasury Board Submissions; funding agreements; annual reports and corporate plans from recipients; contracts; audits & evaluations; program design and progress reports; and policy and analytical materials concerning the management, performance, and outcomes of funding.

Record number: OS-SO-PRO-030-01

Post-Secondary Institutions Strategic Investment Fund (PSI-SIF)

Description: PSI-SIF's objective is the acceleration of strategic construction, repair and maintenance activities at universities and colleges across Canada to generate direct economic activity and to enhance the research infrastructure at post-secondary institutions to strengthen capacity for research and innovation and industry-related training, and to support environmental sustainability.

Document types: Written recommendations; working papers; research documentation; agendas; briefings; supporting documentation; meeting minutes; Board of Director meeting materials; payment documents; correspondence; Treasury Board Submissions; funding agreements; annual reports and corporate plans from recipients; contracts; audits & evaluations; and program design and progress reports, including policy and analytical materials concerning the management, performance, and outcomes of funding.

Record number: OS-SO-PRO-030-01

Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI)

Description: The Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI) is a non-repayable, single recipient contribution program, established by the Government of Canada. It has the objective of funding research infrastructure in order to help attract and retain talent, train researchers, support private-sector innovation and commercialization, and enable researchers to undertake world-class research. The only eligible recipient of this contribution is the CFI, an independent not-for-profit corporation. Ultimate recipients are universities, colleges, hospitals, and not-for-profit research organizations that are situated in Canada and are capable of carrying on meaningful research. Data is collected from various sources to document ISED's oversight and monitoring of funding agreements with the recipient organizations of the Contribution Program. These records include policy and analytical materials concerning the management, performance, and outcomes of funding.

Document types: Written recommendations; working papers; research documentation; agendas; briefings; supporting documentation; meeting minutes; Board of Director meeting materials; payment documents; correspondence; Treasury Board Submissions; funding agreements; annual reports and corporate plans from recipients; contracts; audits & evaluations; program design information; and progress reports.

Record number: OS-SO-PRO-030-01

Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics

Description: The Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics (PI) program is a single recipient, non-repayable contribution program. The program's objectives are to:

• Increase knowledge in the various strands of theoretical physics, thereby building Canada's reputation as the destination of choice for conducting physics research, attracting the highest calibre of theoretical physicists to Canada, creating partnerships with the international physics community and ultimately strengthening the Institute's position as a world-leading research centre for theoretical physics;
• Attract and retain emerging researchers in physics through innovative training programs; and
• Enhance the literacy and interest of students, teachers, and the Canadian public in science in general, and physics in particular.

Document types: Written recommendations; working papers; research documentation; agendas; briefings; supporting documentation; meeting minutes; Board of Director meeting materials; payment documents; correspondence; Treasury Board submissions; funding agreements; annual reports and corporate plans from recipients; contracts; audits & evaluations; program design information; progress reports; and policy and analytical materials concerning the management, performance, and outcomes of funding.

Record number: OS-SO-PRO-030-01

AdMare Bio Innovations

Description: AdMare is a not-for-profit organization, established in 2019, that works together as one with the NEOMED Institute and AdMare Therapeutics to identify and de-risk promising discoveries in drug technology and to create a sustainable life science and health technologies industry in Canada.

Document types: Written recommendations; working papers; research documentation; agendas; briefings; supporting documentation; meeting minutes; Board of Director meeting materials; payment documents; correspondence; Treasury Board Submissions; funding agreements; annual reports and corporate plans from recipients; contracts; audits & evaluations; program design information; progress reports; and policy and analytical materials concerning the management, performance, and outcomes of funding.

Record number: OS-SO-PRO-030-01

Stem Cell Network (SCN)

Description: The Stem Cell Network (SCN) is a single recipient, non-repayable contribution program, under which SCN is the only recipient. SCN is a national not-for-profit corporation dedicated to enabling the translation of regenerative medicine and stem cell research into clinical applications, commercial products and public policy. SCN links to Canadian universities and hospitals, and international collaborators from around the world.

Document types: Written recommendations; working papers; research documentation; agendas; briefings; supporting documentation; meeting minutes; Board of Director meeting materials; payment documents; correspondence; Treasury Board Submissions; funding agreements; annual reports and corporate plans from recipients; contracts; audits & evaluations; program design information; progress reports; and policy and analytical materials concerning the management, performance, and outcomes of funding.

Record number: OS-SO-PRO-030-01

Council of Canadian Academies (CCA)

Description: The Council of Canadian Academies (CCA) is a single recipient, non-repayable contribution program. Its purpose is to provide independent, authoritative and evidence-based expert assessments of the current state of knowledge across a broad spectrum of sciences, which include the natural sciences, engineering, health sciences, social sciences and the humanities.

Document types: Written recommendations; working papers; research documentation; agendas; briefings; supporting documentation; meeting minutes; Board of Director meeting materials; payment documents; correspondence; Treasury Board Submissions; funding agreements; annual reports and corporate plans from recipients; contracts; audits & evaluations; program design information; progress reports; and policy and analytical materials concerning the management, performance, and outcomes of funding.

Record number: OS-SO-PRO-030-01

Pierre Elliot Trudeau Foundation

Description: The Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation (PETF) is an independent and non-partisan charity that uses a peer review process to offer three types of awards: scholarships awarded to doctoral candidates, fellowships awarded to established researchers at Canadian universities, and mentorships awarded to seasoned professionals who are able to counsel the scholars. The Foundation also holds conferences, lectures and symposia.

Document types: Written recommendations; working papers; research documentation; agendas; briefings; supporting documentation; meeting minutes; payment documents; correspondence; Treasury Board Submissions; funding agreements; annual reports and corporate plans from recipients; contracts; audits & evaluations; program design information; progress reports; and policy and analytical materials concerning the management, performance, and outcomes of funding.

Record number: OS-SO-PRO-030-01

Digital Research Infrastructure Strategy (DRI)

Description: The Digital Research Infrastructure (DRI) Strategy seeks to increase access to DRI resources to meet researcher needs, offer world-class tools to support collaborative and leading-edge research, and support a cohesive national vision for future investments, ensuring clarity among national, regional and local (institutional) roles and responsibilities.

In order to achieve the objectives of the DRI Strategy, a new DRI contribution program (the program) has been established to fund one not-for-profit organization that will coordinate funding and strategic direction for national DRI activities related to advanced research computing, data management, and research software, under a single recipient organization.

Document types: Written recommendations; working papers; research documentation; agendas; briefings; supporting documentation; meeting minutes; Board of Director meeting materials; payment documents; correspondence; Treasury Board Submissions; funding agreements; annual reports and corporate plans from recipients; contracts; audits & evaluations; program design information; progress reports; and policy and analytical materials concerning the management, performance, and outcomes of funding.

Record number: OS-SO-PRO-030-01

Genome Canada

Description: Genome Canada is a non-repayable, single recipient contribution program, under which Genome Canada is the only recipient. Genome Canada is a not-for-profit organization created in 2000 with the mandate of developing and implementing a national strategy in genomics research for the benefit of all Canadians. Genome Canada supports six independently incorporated regional Genome Centres, located in British Columbia, Alberta, the Prairies, Ontario, Quebec and Atlantic Canada. With the Genome Centres and other partners, including a number of provincial governments and the private sector, Genome Canada invests in and manages large-scale genomics research projects, technology platforms, and the translation of new discoveries into application at Canadian universities, research hospitals and not-for-profit research institutions.

Document types: Written recommendations; working papers; research documentation; agendas; briefings; supporting documentation; meeting minutes; Board of Director meeting materials; payment documents; correspondence; Treasury Board Submissions; funding agreements; annual reports and corporate plans from recipients; contracts; audits & evaluations; program design information; progress reports; and policy and analytical materials concerning the management, performance, and outcomes of funding.

Record number: OS-SO-PRO-030-01

Institute for Quantum Computing (IQC)

Description: The Institute for Quantum Computing (IQC) is a single recipient, non-repayable contribution program. The program's objectives are to:

• Increase knowledge in quantum information science and technology;
• Support and create opportunities for students to learn and apply new knowledge;
• Increase awareness and knowledge of quantum information science and technology in both the scientific community and amongst Canadians more generally;
• Position Canada to take advantage of the economic and social benefits of research by seizing opportunities and commercializing breakthrough research; and
• Brand Canada as a place to conduct research in quantum information science and technologies.

The only eligible recipient is the University of Waterloo for the purposes of the IQC, a scientific research institute that was established in 2002 at the university and engages in research, training, and educational outreach related to quantum information science and quantum technologies.

Document types: Written recommendations; working papers; research documentation; agendas; briefings; supporting documentation; meeting minutes; Board of Director meeting materials; payment documents; correspondence; Treasury Board Submissions; funding agreements; annual reports and corporate plans from recipients; contracts; audits & evaluations; program design information; progress reports; and policy and analytical materials concerning the management, performance, and outcomes of funding.

Record number: OS-SO-PRO-030-01

National Artificial Intelligence Institutes

Description: The National Artificial Intelligence Institutes is a named recipient, non-repayable contribution program. As part of the Pan Canadian Artificial Intelligence Strategy (PCAIS) the program's objectives are to:

• Accelerate the translation of artificial intelligence research into commercial or other innovations;
• Grow the capacity of Canadian businesses, not-for-profit organizations, health providers including hospitals, or other public corporations and agencies to develop, adopt, use, or commercialize artificial intelligence; and
• Encourage the responsible development and use of artificial intelligence based in human rights, inclusion, diversity, innovation and economic growth.

The only eligible recipients of funds under the program are the Mila Quebec Artificial Intelligence Institute in Montreal, Quebec, the Vector Institute in Toronto, Ontario, and the Alberta Machine Intelligence Institute in Edmonton, Alberta.

Document types: Written recommendations; working papers; research documentation; agendas; briefings; supporting documentation; meeting minutes; Board of Director meeting materials; payment documents; correspondence; Treasury Board Submissions; funding agreements; annual reports and corporate plans from recipients; contracts; audits & evaluations; program design information; progress reports; and policy and analytical materials concerning the management, performance, and outcomes of funding.

Record number: OS-SO-PRO-030-01

National Centre for Indigenous Law (University of Victoria)

Description: Budget 2019 committed $9.1 million, over three years (2019-2023), to support construction of the Centre for Indigenous Law at the University of Victoria. This was in response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, specifically Action No. 50: "In keeping with the United National Declaration on Rights of the Indigenous Peoples, we call upon the federal government, in collaboration with Aboriginal organizations, to fund the establishment of Indigenous law institutes for the development, use and understanding of Indigenous laws and access to justice in accordance with the unique cultures of Aboriginal peoples in Canada."

Document types: Written recommendations; working papers; research documentation; agendas; briefings; supporting documentation; meeting minutes; Board of Director meeting materials; payment documents; correspondence; Treasury Board Submissions; funding agreements; annual reports and corporate plans from recipients; contracts; audits & evaluations; program design information; progress reports; and policy and analytical materials concerning the management, performance, and outcomes of funding.

Record number: OS-SO-PRO-030-01

Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD)

Description: The OECD Grants Program funds specific OECD research projects that advance Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada's policy agenda. The OECD Grant Program provides funding above the fees Canada pays for general membership, in order to support priority areas. These grants allow ISED to leverage OECD expertise and resources to respond to specific economic and policy analysis gaps that would benefit from international expertise and provide a better understanding of Canada's positioning within a global context by ensuring Canada is represented in OECD datasets and economic trend analysis, and target longer-term research on emerging trends and persistent economic challenges. OECD projects provide Canada with examples of best practices, lessons learned, and benchmarks against other OECD countries.

Document types: Written recommendations; working papers; research documentation; agendas; briefings; supporting documentation; meeting minutes; Board of Director meeting materials; payment documents; correspondence; Treasury Board Submissions; funding agreements; annual reports and corporate plans from recipients; contracts; audits & evaluations; program design information; progress reports; and policy and analytical materials concerning the management, performance, and outcomes of funding.

Record number: OS-SO-PRO-030-01