Canadian businesses are among the most innovative in the world. Those that are able to leverage and use their Intellectual Property (IP) strategically are more likely to be innovative, expand domestically and internationally, and experience high growthFootnote 1.
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About ElevateIP
Building on the National Intellectual Property Strategy that was launched in 2018, the Government of Canada continues to further support Canadian innovators, startups, and technology-intensive businesses.
Originally launched in Budget 2021 and renewed through Budget 2025, ElevateIP provides innovators and Small and Medium sized Enterprises (SMEs) with the tools and expertise to understand, strategically manage, and leverage their intellectual property (IP).
ElevateIP helps Canadian innovators and SMEs turn IP into a tangible advantage that attracts investment and protects their business. ElevateIP recipients are not-for-profit business and innovation organizations, including Business Accelerators and Incubators (BAIs), that equip innovators and SMEs with:
- IP education and awareness: Resources to understand how they can maximize IP to their strategic advantage, including hands-on workshops, training and mentorship;
- IP strategy development: Expert IP advice, guidance, and resources to help SMEs develop tailored IP strategies, designed for their unique business needs and opportunities; and
- Implement IP strategies: Resources to help formally protect, manage and commercialize their IP, including costs of protection.
ElevateIP also strengthens IP capacity within the broader innovation and business ecosystem by enabling national coordination and collaboration, and encouraging recipients and collaborators to share knowledge, tools, and best practices.
The program is committed to inclusive access to IP supports, including for underrepresented groups.
ElevateIP recipients
Springboard Atlantic Inc
Atlantic IP Advantage supports startups in Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island
Mouvement des accélérateurs d’innovation du Québec (MAIN)
MomentumPI supports startups in Québec
Communitech Corporation
ElevateIP supports startups in Ontario, Manitoba and Saskatchewan
University of Calgary with Innovate Calgary and Economic Development Lethbridge
ElevateIP Alberta supports innovators and SMEs in Alberta
New Ventures BC Society
AccelerateIP supports innovators and SMEs in British Columbia, Yukon, Nunavut and the Northwest Territories
By providing these key supports, ElevateIP aims to strengthen IP capacity across Canada’s innovation ecosystem, improve access to IP supports, and assist innovators and SMEs in the development and implementation of IP strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the National Intellectual Property Strategy?
To assist companies in making better use of the IP system, Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) launched a comprehensive National Intellectual Property Strategy intended to help businesses protect and capitalize on their IP through education and awareness initiatives, development of new IP tools, and legislative reform.
Are there existing IP supports for small businesses in Canada?
The Canadian Intellectual Property Office (CIPO) has compiled a list of Canadian IP Supports for Small Businesses which details many of the IP supports currently available for Canadian businesses.
How can I learn more about IP held by Canada's public sector?
ExploreIP: Canada's IP Marketplace, is an online resource for businesses to explore possible licensing and collaboration opportunities with public sector patent holders.
ElevateIP is Powered by Innovation Canada
At Innovation Canada, we back innovators. From funding to expert advice to driving new collaborations, our programs and services are designed to help businesses innovate, create jobs and grow Canada’s economy. We are committed to providing inclusive programs and cultivating a workplace that is both diverse and inclusive so that we can best support the businesses we serve.
Contact us
For any other questions you might have about the program contact us at: ic.icspnpelevateip-icspepeleverpi.ic@ised-isde.gc.ca or 1-800-328-6189.