2018–19 Departmental Plan—Supplementary information

Supplementary information tables

Operating context and key risks

Operating Context

Canada is in a global innovation race. We are competing with countries around the world for the most talented people, the newest technologies and the fastest growing companies. Canada's success lies in our ability to innovate for improved economic, social and environmental outcomes. As a nation, innovating is fundamental to promoting clean and inclusive growth, generating high-quality jobs and raising Canadians' living standards. To this end, ISED is advancing Canada's Innovation and Skills Plan, a whole-of-government approach designed to pursue the goal of making Canada a global centre of innovation. Developed in consultation with Canadians, the Innovation and Skills Plan focuses on four interconnected and mutually reinforcing themes to spark innovation through partnerships and targeted actions:

  • Skills: Equipping Canadians with the tools, skills and experience they need to succeed in the marketplace, and attracting global talent.
  • Research, technology and commercialization: Encouraging greater business investments in research and capitalizing on Canadian inventions through shared risk-taking and partnerships.
  • Program simplification: Offering a timely, client-centric and single window in the delivery of business innovation programs.
  • Investment and scale-up: Attracting investment and supporting the growth of leading Canadian companies and start-ups.

Launched in Budget 2017, a number of signature initiatives from the Innovation and Skills Plan are now underway, including the Innovation Superclusters Initiative, six Economic Strategy Tables, CanCode, Innovative Solutions Canada, the Strategic Innovation Fund, and Innovation Canada. Budget 2018 builds off of these programs and outlines the results of the horizontal review of business innovation programs. The review proposes a series of fundamental changes to business innovation programs to create a suite of programs that is easy to navigate and will respond to the challenges and opportunities facing Canadian businesses today and into the future.

Four major challenges define Canada's future as our country becomes more open and interconnected within the global community. The flip sides of these challenges are opportunities that will make innovation necessary to create and secure good-quality jobs for Canadians.

Slow growth: The global economy is growing slowly. In the past, Canada relied on increased trade and high commodity prices to boost its economy. We also relied on more people to join the workforce. Over the past decade, Canada and other advanced economies have taken steps, such as lower interest rates and tax rates, in a prolonged effort to stimulate growth. But more needs to be done to ensure the strength of the middle class. As well, Canada will continue to have fewer working-age people as our population ages, resulting in lower growth potential.

Technology: The world has entered a new industrial age. Technology is digitizing and automating every aspect of our lives—and it's happening much faster than anyone ever imagined. Technology is challenging every industry and every worker. New jobs and companies that never existed before are being created as others are being phased out. As the Internet and other technologies make communications instant, constant and affordable to people in every corner of the globe, they are reducing the competitive advantages of Canadians and citizens of other advanced economies. At the same time, they are empowering people in emerging economies. To respond to the pace of technological change, Canadians need to stay as open and flexible as possible. We will need to adopt new technologies and learn the skills necessary to prepare for the jobs of the future.

Globalization: The competitive pressures of the global innovation economy are more intense than ever. Developed and developing economies alike are putting in place aggressive strategies to position their economies for competitive advantage in the development of the next great technologies, products and services.

Climate change: This defining issue of our generation is reshaping how countries around the world meet their energy needs and how they think about growth. Climate change will influence how Canada and other countries manage natural resources in a world of both rising energy consumption and rising climatic risk. Those focused on clean growth are already driving the next great wave of innovation. Many countries are transitioning to a low-carbon economy based on "clean technologies" that promote energy efficiency, reduce pollution and produce cleaner air and water. This shift to clean growth has the potential to create jobs as well as new markets.

Key risks

Key risks
Risks Risk response strategy Link to the department's Core Responsibilities Link to mandate letter commitments and any government-wide or departmental priorities (as applicable)

Innovation and Skills Plan implementation

There is a risk that the implementation of Canada's Innovation and Skills Plan may not meet the expectations of stakeholders in terms of speed of delivery and expected benefits, given the complexity of the programs and ISED's limited policy and program levers, as well as the Department's capacity to execute the Plan.

Canada's Innovation and Skills Plan (ISP) was informed by extensive consultation with the Canadian public, academics, businesses, not-for-profits, Indigenous groups, provinces and territories, and other stakeholders. In 2018–19, ISED will clearly communicate how the ISP will grow Canada's middle class through the support of innovation activities throughout all sectors in Canada.
  • People, Skills and Communities
  • Science, Technology, Research and Commercialization
  • Companies, Investment and Growth
  • Develop an Innovation Agenda

NAFTA negotiations

There is a risk that ISED's current activities and policies will be insufficient to support Canadian business in the event of negative repercussions following the NAFTA negotiations.

ISED will collaborate with other government departments to provide assistance to Canadian firms through existing mechanisms and examine programs and policies to ensure they are meeting industry needs.
  • Companies, Investment and Growth
  • Develop programs to support Canadian businesses to increase their exports, expand the range of their trading partners, and adjust to, take advantage of, and prepare for, the implementation of new trade agreements.

Digital services

There is a risk that availability and quality of digital services will not meet the expectations of Canadian businesses and could negatively impact ISED's ability to serve its clients and deliver on its operational commitments.

ISED will take steps to ensure client satisfaction data is gathered and used to inform service design and delivery, driving progress and increased performance. The Department is developing a new digital strategy and will revise its existing Service Management Strategy accordingly, to increase the availability and quality of client-centric and streamlined services.
  • Companies, Investment and Growth
  • Engage provincial, territorial, and municipal governments to create as much alignment as possible with complementary programs delivered by other governments to support SMEs.
  • Reduce the administrative burden on small business.

One of ISED's main challenges is promoting innovation in a period of slow economic growth. ISED is implementing Canada's Innovation and Skills Plan, a transformative people-centred and partnership-driven approach to make Canada a world-leading centre for innovation, to help create more high-quality, well-paying jobs, and to help strengthen and grow the middle class.

There is also ongoing uncertainty around the NAFTA negotiations and the potential ramifications of a revised agreement, such as increased barriers for businesses conducting cross-border trade. ISED is leveraging its economic policy expertise to support the negotiations and mitigate any potential negative effects on Canadian businesses.

ISED is committed to improving its e-service delivery to make it easier for Canadians and Canadian businesses to access the government services they need. However, there is a risk that ISED's digital services will not meet the expectations of Canadian businesses. To address this risk, the Department is implementing a Service Management Strategy and working with partners and stakeholders to ensure e-service improvements meet the needs of its clients.

ISED's 2018–19 Corporate Plan includes the Department's Corporate Risk Profile, part of a tailored, integrated approach to addressing risks that may impede the Department's ability to deliver on its mandate. This approach guides employees in implementing a comprehensive integrated risk management regime to ensure key risks pertaining to the Department's policy, regulatory, program, investment and management activities are identified, assessed, mitigated and communicated.

The risks identified above are taken from ISED's Corporate Plan, which includes all the risks identified by the Department that could impact its ability to achieve its mandate and priorities and fall outside the Department's risk tolerance. To ensure the effectiveness of its risk responses, ISED updates its Corporate Plan three times each year and senior management, as well as the Departmental Audit Committee, review the performance of corporate risk mitigation.

Supplementary information tables

Details on transfer payment programs of $5 million or more

General Information

Details on transfer payment programs of $5 million or more
Name of transfer payment program Computers for Schools
Start date 1993
End date Ongoing
Type of transfer payment Contribution
Type of appropriation Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions 2016–17
Link to department's Program Inventory Bridging Digital Divides
Description Through the Computers for Schools (CFS) program, surplus computers donated by federal, provincial and territorial government departments and private donors are refurbished by provincial and territorial program partners. Once refurbished, they are distributed to schools, libraries, not-for-profit organizations and Indigenous communities across Canada. Through this national partnership-based network, the program continues to meet the ongoing demand for computers, ensuring improved access for Canadians to computer technology. The Technical Work Experience Program is also delivered by CFS affiliates and results and spending stemming from TWEP are reported by ESDC under the Youth Employment Strategy. Under TWEP, eligible youth are given valuable work experience through internships targeted to develop and enhance information and communications technology (ICT) skills.
Expected results

Short term outcomes: 210 youth interns will benefit from this program annually, with a target of at least 20% female youth interns; an annual target of 72,000 distributed refurbished computers; and a target of 160,000 computers donated annually.

Medium term outcomes: An annual target of 1300 tons of computers, laptops, monitors, printers and other equipment to be reused in the refurbishment process; a target of 90% of youth interns who report that participating in the program improved their soft skills, digital skills and work experience.

Long term outcomes: 60% of youth interns will find employment requiring digital skills by the end of March 2022; 60% of youth interns will find employment, including self-employment.

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation 2016–17
Decision following the results of last evaluation Continuation
Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation 2021–22
General targeted recipient groups Not-for-profit organizations and provincial governments
Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients Recipients are engaged through regular monitoring. All recipients participate in bi-monthly teleconferences, site visits and an annual meeting to discuss issues, trends and the future of the program.
Planning information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment 2017–18
Forecast spending
2018–19
Planned spending
2019–20
Planned spending
2020–21
Planned spending
Total grants - - - -
Total contributions (CFS) 5,718,594 - - -
Total contributions (TWEP) 5,101,640 6,162,085 3,537,085 3,537,085
Total other types of transfer payments - - - -
Total program 10,820,234 6,162,085 3,537,085 3,537,085

General Information

General Information
Name of transfer payment program Connecting Canadians Program (CCP)
Start date June 5, 2014
End date March 31, 2019
Type of transfer payment Contribution
Type of appropriation Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions 2014–15
Link to department's Program Inventory Bridging Digital Divides
Description This program funds the extension and enhancement of high-speed broadband networks to reach previously underserved communities in rural and northern Canada. It is also responsible for maintaining current maps of broadband coverage across Canada and for working with other government partners to coordinate support for broadband infrastructure.
Expected results

The execution of negotiated contribution agreements and monitoring of executed projects (households targeted by projects are connected).

Rural Component: Number of households with access to affordable broadband service at a minimum speed of 5.0 Mbps download and 1.0 Mbps upload in underserved rural and remote areas across Canada.

Northern Component: Extend and augment satellite capacity in Nunavut and Nunavik region of Northern Québec to provide households with access to affordable broadband service at speeds of a target 3.0 to 5.0 Mbps download.

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation Not applicable
Decision following the results of last evaluation Not applicable
Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation 2019–20
General targeted recipient groups Internet service providers (ISPs) capable of serving rural, northern and remote areas of Canada.
Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients The program is now closed to new applications. The program will continue to make information available via its website and engage recipients through ongoing communication in the execution of agreements.
Planning information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment 2017–18
Forecast spending
2018–19
Planned spending
2019–20
Planned spending
2020–21
Planned spending
Total grants - - - -
Total contributions 61,552,775 14,738,395 - -
Total other types of transfer payments - - - -
Total program 61,552,775 14,738,395 - -

General Information

General Information
Name of transfer payment program Connect to Innovate (CTI) Program
Start date December 15, 2016
End date March 31, 2021
Type of transfer payment Contribution
Type of appropriation Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions 2016–17
Link to department's Program Inventory Bridging Digital Divides
Description A $500 million program announced in Budget 2016 that focuses on extending and enhancing high-capacity backbone infrastructure and high-speed internet to rural and remote communities across Canada, with flexibility to fund backbone upgrades, resiliency, and some last-mile infrastructure for underserved households, institutions and businesses.
Expected results CTI aims to extend and enhance backbone infrastructure access to at least 300 underserved communities across Canada, connecting anchor institutions within those communities and in some cases to extend or enhance last-mile infrastructure to underserved households in areas with broadband speeds of less than 5.0 Mbps (download) and 1.0 Mbps (upload).
Fiscal year of last completed evaluation Not applicable, new program
Decision following the results of last evaluation Not applicable
Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation 2020–21
General targeted recipient groups Internet service providers (ISPs), not-for-profit organizations, provincial, territorial and municipal governments, or others interested in coordinating projects to serve rural, northern and remote areas of Canada.
Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients Targeted outreach to continue communications with individuals engaged through the program's initial consultation on program design; outreach to ISPs at program launch; coordination with provincial/territorial partners and other government departments and agencies to reach out to interested stakeholders; website with interactive mapping tool; sustained social media presence.
Planning information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment 2017–18
Forecast spending
2018–19
Planned spending
2019–20
Planned spending
2020–21
Planned spending
Total grants - - - -
Total contributions 10,000,000 249,025,199 175,142,674 48,854,024
Total other types of transfer payments - - - -
Total program 10,000,000 249,025,199 175,142,674 48,854,024

General Information

General Information
Name of transfer payment program Digital Skills for Youth
Start date December 11, 2017
End date March 31, 2022
Type of transfer payment Contribution
Type of appropriation Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions 2017–18
Link to department's Program Inventory Bridging Digital Divides
Description

DS4Y is a program under the Career Focus stream of the Youth Employment Strategy, intended to support recent underemployed post-secondary graduates with valuable and practical work experience and additional training that will help them improve their employability and use their talent to their full potential so that they can succeed in the digital economy.

The program will support non-repayable contributions, and will start in fiscal year 2018-19.

Expected results

Short term outcomes: At least 630 participants each year, with a target of 50% female participants; an equal proportion of small businesses and not-for-profit organizations hosting interns; a target of 80% of internships involving digital activities.

Medium term outcomes: Target of 90% of participants having acquired new soft skills and enhanced digital skills; 25% of participants furthering their education after the internship due to upskilling opportunities offered by the program; at least 90% of intern host organizations recommend this program to other organizations.

Long term outcomes: At least 75% of participants will find career-orientated employment over a three-year period; the program will help 60% of participants obtain employment in professional, science or technology related fields.

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation Not applicable, new program
Decision following the results of last evaluation Not applicable, new program
Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation 2019-20 (ESDC evaluation of the Youth Employment Strategy)
General targeted recipient groups For-profit organizations and not-for-profit organizations including associations (when authorized by law to enter into agreements and hold property in its own name), community-based organizations, educational institutions, Chambers of Commerce or Boards of Trade, economic development corporations; provincial, territorial or municipal governments and their agencies; Indigenous governments, Band Councils and other not-for-profit groups representing Indigenous Peoples; provincial and territorial crown corporations.
Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients The call for proposals ended on February 7, 2018 with no plans for a second call. The program will continue to make information available via its website to interested parties and will engage with recipient organizations through ongoing communication in the execution of agreements.
Planning information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment 2017–18
Forecast spending
2018–19
Planned spending
2019–20
Planned spending
2020–21
Planned spending
Total grants - - - -
Total contributions 1,895,900 9,479,500 9,479,500 9,479,500
Total other types of transfer payments - - - -
Total program 1,895,900 9,479,500 9,479,500 9,479,500

General Information

General Information
Name of transfer payment program Strategic Innovation Fund
Start date July 5, 2017
End date Ongoing
Type of transfer payment Contribution
Type of appropriation Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions 2017–18
Link to department's Program Inventory Innovation in Business
Description The Strategic Innovation Fund (SIF) is a $1.26-billion program that will attract and support high-quality business investments in Canada's most dynamic and innovative sectors. This new fund will help innovative businesses scale up, while supporting R&D, technology demonstration and high-growth industries.
Expected results Short term objectives aim to support a variety of high-quality projects and companies by: attracting and growing innovative firms in Canada; generating investments in R&D, business expansion and technology demonstrations in Canada; and by promoting collaboration between industry and academia in Canada.
Fiscal year of last completed evaluation Not applicable, new program
Decision following the results of last evaluation Not applicable
Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation 2022–23
General targeted recipient groups Industry-related (Private sector companies in all sectors)
Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients ISED maintains extensive engagements with industries and businesses, providing opportunities for feedback. SIF is available to high qualify projects from all sectors.
Planning information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment 2017–18
Forecast spending
2018–19
Planned spending
2019–20
Planned spending
2020–21
Planned spending
Total grants - - - -
Total contributions 73,682,711 293,475,835 241,326,999 264,194,610
Total other types of transfer payments - - - -
Total program 73,682,711 293,475,835 241,326,999 264,194,610

General Information

General Information
Name of transfer payment program Automotive Innovation Fund
Start date May 9, 2008
End date March 31, 2021; Consolidated into SIF July 5, 2017
Type of transfer payment Contribution
Type of appropriation Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions 2016–17
Link to department's Program Inventory Innovation in Business
Description The Automotive Innovation Fund (AIF) supports strategic, large-scale research and development projects to develop innovative, greener and more fuel-efficient vehicles.
Expected results

Contributions provided by AIF are expected to encourage recipients to undertake R&D activities in innovative technologies that would develop and build greener, more fuel-efficient vehicles and invest in state-of-the-art, energy-efficient assembly and powertrain facilities.

These investments will help maintain a strong, competitive Canadian automotive industry that contributes to economic growth and job creation.

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation 2017–18
Decision following the results of last evaluation Continuation
Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation Not applicable
General targeted recipient groups Automotive manufacturers, including large parts suppliers.
Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients ISED conducts regular outreach with companies (original equipment manufacturers and suppliers) and industry associations, attends industry events and conferences.
Planning information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment 2017–18
Forecast spending
2018–19
Planned spending
2019–20
Planned spending
2020–21
Planned spending
Total grants - - - -
Total contributions 39,303,650 46,833,300 37,565,950 22,557,600
Total other types of transfer payments - - - -
Total program 39,303,650 46,833,300 37,565,950 22,557,600

General information

General Information
Name of transfer payment program Automotive Supplier Innovation Program
Start date June 3, 2015
End date March 31, 2020; Consolidated into SIF July 5, 2017
Type of transfer payment Contribution
Type of appropriation Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions 2015–16
Link to department's Program Inventory Innovation in Business
Description The Automotive Supplier Innovation Program (ASIP) is a five-year, $100 million program that provides non-repayable contributions to support technology demonstration and prototyping activities of Canadian-based suppliers developing innovative products and/or processes in the automotive sector.
Expected results Non-repayable contributions provided by ASIP are expected to encourage recipients to undertake R&D activities in innovative technologies. Key outcome resulting from this program: a stronger capacity for the Canadian automotive industry to develop innovative new products and processes that will lead to improved productivity and enhanced employment prospects for Canadians.
Fiscal year of last completed evaluation Not applicable
Decision following the results of last evaluation Not applicable
Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation 2020–21
General targeted recipient groups Automotive parts suppliers, especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)
Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients ISED conducts regular outreach with companies (suppliers) and industry associations, attends industry events and conferences.
Planning information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment 2017–18
Forecast spending
2018–19
Planned spending
2019–20
Planned spending
2020–21
Planned spending
Total grants - - - -
Total contributions 11,151,448 7,233,910 1,465,165 -
Total other types of transfer payments - - - -
Total program 11,151,448 7,233,910 1,465,165 -

General information

General Information
Name of transfer payment program Strategic Aerospace and Defence Initiative
Start date April 2, 2007
End date March 31, 2023; Consolidated into SIF July 5, 2017
Type of transfer payment Contribution
Type of appropriation Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions 2016–17
Link to department's Program Inventory Innovation in Business
Description The Strategic Aerospace and Defence Initiative (SADI) encourages the development of innovative products, processes and services; enhances the competitiveness of Canadian aerospace, defence, space and security (A&D) firms; and fosters collaboration among research institutes, universities, colleges and the private sector. SADI is a component of the government's strategy to mobilize science and technology to Canada's competitive advantage. SADI acts as a catalyst for new A&D investments by providing repayable contributions to Canadian A&D companies for strategic industrial research and pre-competitive development.
Expected results
  • New and innovative products, services and processes are commercialized by Canadian Businesses;
  • Investment in leading-edge R&D in the Canadian aerospace and defence sector; and
  • Collaboration between private sector and universities, colleges and affiliated research institutes.
Fiscal year of last completed evaluation 2016–17
Decision following the results of last evaluation Continuation
Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation Not applicable
General targeted recipient groups Private sector companies in the aerospace, defence, space and security industries.
Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients ISED maintains extensive engagements with industries and businesses, providing opportunities for feedback. SIF is available to high qualify projects from all sectors.
Planning information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment 2017–18
Forecast spending
2018–19
Planned spending
2019–20
Planned spending
2020–21
Planned spending
Total grants - - - -
Total contributions 166,682,375 168,300,957 80,951,538 8,611,387
Total other types of transfer payments - - - -
Total program 166,682,375 168,300,957 80,951,538 8,611,387

General information

General Information
Name of transfer payment program Technology Demonstration Program
Start date September 4, 2013
End date March 31, 2024; Consolidated into SIF July 5, 2017
Type of transfer payment Contribution
Type of appropriation Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions 2016–17
Link to department's Program Inventory Innovation in Business
Description The Technology Demonstration Program (TDP) provides non-repayable contributions in support of large-scale research and development technology demonstration projects in the aerospace, defence, space and security (A&D) sectors. Projects will be led by an Original Equipment Manufacturer or Tier 1 integrator, collaborating with small and medium-sized firms and post-secondary institutions. Projects funded through this program are expected to be the basis for next-generation manufacturing and services in Canada. The program supports technological development in areas that have significant potential for broad-based and long-term economic benefits for Canada.
Expected results
  • Ensure a concentration of technology development in priority areas with significant potential for broad based and long-term economic benefits;
  • Be the basis for the next-generation of manufacturing, technical capabilities and services in Canada; and,
  • Generate material economic benefits for Canada in the longer term.
Fiscal year of last completed evaluation Not applicable
Decision following the results of last evaluation Not applicable
Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation 2018–19
General targeted recipient groups Original Equipment Manufacturers, Tier 1 integrators, SMEs, universities, colleges, and technical research institutes carrying out work in Canada.
Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients ISED maintains extensive engagements with industries and businesses, providing opportunities for feedback. SIF is available to high qualify projects from all sectors.
Planning information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment 2017–18
Forecast spending
2018–19
Planned spending
2019–20
Planned spending
2020–21
Planned spending
Total grants - - - -
Total contributions 37,937,284 41,201,155 32,335,708 23,832,967
Total other types of transfer payments - - - -
Total program 37,937,284 41,201,155 32,335,708 23,832,967

General information

General Information
Name of transfer payment program C Series Program
Start date September 2008
End date 2034; Contribution provided over four years (to 2021)
Type of transfer payment Contribution
Type of appropriation Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions 2016–17
Link to department's Program Inventory Innovation in Business
Description On February 7, 2017, the Government of Canada announced that it would provide $372.5 million in repayable contributions to Bombardier Inc. $120 million is allocated to ongoing activities related to the development of the company's C Series aircraft, while the remaining amount funds research and development for the Global 7000 business jet. This funding is provided over four years and will support middle-class jobs, strengthen the long-term competitiveness of Bombardier and help build the aircraft of the future. 
Expected results The program supports the successful development and launch of new fixed-wing commercial aircraft in the 100 to 160 seat segment.
Fiscal year of last completed evaluation 2013–14
Decision following the results of last evaluation Continuation
Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation 2018–19
General targeted recipient groups Industry-related
Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients ISED and Bombardier engage regularly on the status of projects.
Planning information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment 2017–18
Forecast spending
2018–19
Planned spending
2019–20
Planned spending
2020–21
Planned spending
Total grants - - - -
Total contributions 27,517,520 15,517,520 21,517,517 -
Total other types of transfer payments - - - -
Total program 27,517,520 15,517,520 21,517,517 -

General information

General Information
Name of transfer payment program Innovation Superclusters Initiative
Start date May 24, 2017
End date March 31, 2022
Type of transfer payment Contribution
Type of appropriation Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions 2017–18
Link to department's Program Inventory Innovation Superclusters Initiative
Description The Innovation Superclusters Initiative program promotes the growth of Canadian innovation networks and clusters. The program supports industry-driven consortia in developing and executing a strategic plan to build an advantage for their cluster to reinforce Canada's sectors of strength. The program fosters collaboration between private sector and academic/research institutions, driving the development and commercialization of new technologies that are designed to help companies grow as well as become more productive and competitive. The program offers non-repayable contributions.
Expected results
  • Strengthened collaboration within private sector, as well as between private sector and academia.
  • Development of new products, processes and services that increase competitiveness and productivity.
  • Enhancing regional innovation ecosystems through initiatives and activities that address cluster gaps and produce broad benefits.
Fiscal year of last completed evaluation Not applicable, new program
Decision following the results of last evaluation Not applicable, new program
Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation 2020–21
General targeted recipient groups Business-led consortia of firms, post-secondary and research institutions, and innovation intermediaries
Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients Information sessions were held with stakeholders throughout the country to promote the program after its launch. During the intake period, the department maintained a public-facing website to provide program information and responded to applicants seeking clarifications. Selected superclusters were announced in February 2018. Discussions with selected superclusters continue and the program will remain engaged with recipients and partner organizations.
Planning information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment 2017–18
Forecast spending
2018–19
Planned spending
2019–20
Planned spending
2020–21
Planned spending
Total grants - - - -
Total contributions - 243,903,341 243,628,135 243,436,531
Total other types of transfer payments - - - -
Total program - 243,903,341 243,628,135 243,436,531

General information

General Information
Name of transfer payment program Futurpreneur Canada
Start date April 1, 2017
End date March 31, 2019
Type of transfer payment Non-repayable Contribution
Type of appropriation Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions 2018–19
Link to department's Program Inventory Entrepreneurship Policy
Description Futurpreneur Canada supports young Canadian entrepreneurs aged 18–39 who see entrepreneurship as a viable career option and want to start their own businesses but who would not typically be supported by traditional lending institutions. Futurpreneur provides loans of up to $15,000 and two years of mandatory mentoring. Futurpreneur also provides business planning support.
Expected results

The expected results and outcomes of funding to Futurpreneur Canada is the creation of viable businesses by young entrepreneurs, which supports Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada's core responsibilities to ensure that Canada's entrepreneurs represent all segments of Canadian society.

Futurpreneur Canada will collect the following performance indicators:

  • Number of loans;
  • Total value of all loans;
  • Number and value of loans in arrears;
  • Number and value of loans which have been written off;
  • Number of jobs created;
  • Number of applications received by Futurpreneur Canada;
  • Number of young entrepreneurs accessing mentorship;
  • 5-year survival rate of Futurpreneur Canada businesses;
  • Number and percentage of young entrepreneurs offered growth information and/or support services; and
  • Number and percentage of Futurpreneur Canada businesses exporting.
Fiscal year of last completed evaluation Not applicable
Decision following the results of last evaluation Not applicable
Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation 2018–19
General targeted recipient groups Young Canadian entrepreneurs from ages 18–39
Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients

To seek out applicants for Futurpreneur's loans and mentoring programs, Futurpreneur has a website, blog, electronic newsletter, LinkedIn group (Entrepeer Hub) and toll-free telephone number. Futurpreneur is active on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Pinterest.

Futurpreneur holds events for young entrepreneurs (e.g., Action Entrepreneurship Canadian Summit and mentoring meetups) and it is the coordinator for Global Entrepreneurship Week events across Canada.

Futurpreneur partners with a range of organizations and institutions, including accelerators, universities, entrepreneurship organizations and small business organizations. A few of Futurpreneur's partners include MaRS, BDC, CFIB, Enactus, StartUp Canada, Communitech, and the National Angel Capital Association. Futurpreneur gets financial and/or in-kind support from and has relationships with organizations such as RBC, CIBC, TD, Scotiabank, Accenture, Deloitte, Ernst and Young, Microsoft, ClearChannel, National Post, universities and business schools, FedDev, ACOA, CanNor and NRC-IRAP.

Planning information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment 2017–18
Forecast spending
2018–19
Planned spending
2019–20
Planned pending
2020–21
Planned spending
Total grants - - - -
Total contributions 7,000,000 7,000,000 - -
Total other types of transfer payments - - - -
Total program 7,000,000 7,000,000 - -

General information

General Information
Name of transfer payment program Canada Small Business Financing Program
Start date 1961
End date Ongoing
Type of transfer payment Contribution
Type of appropriation Statutory – Canada Small Business Financing Act
Fiscal year for terms and conditions Ongoing (Statutory program)
Link to department's Program Inventory Support and Financing for Small Business
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 for-profit 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 pays 85 percent of net eligible losses. CSBFP is a national program that operates in all provinces and territories.
Expected results
  • Provide access to financing to approximately 5,300 small businesses;
  • Continue to facilitate access to roughly $900 million in debt financing;
  • Continue communicating with financial institutions to improve program delivery.
Fiscal year of last completed evaluation 2014–15
Decision following the results of last evaluation Continuation
Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation 2019–20
General targeted recipient groups Lending institutions and Canadian small businesses
Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients Leverage other federal government horizontal efforts to engage small businesses such as the Canada Business Network and continue collaboration with lenders, chambers of commerce and other intermediaries for dissemination of information.
Planning information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment 2017–18
Forecast spending
2018–19
Planned spending
2019–20
Planned¨spending
2020–21
Planned spending
Total grants - - - -
Total contributions 69,029,621 64,946,634 67,680,878 67,385,990
Total other types of transfer payments - - - -
Total program 69,029,621 64,946,634 67,680,878 67,385,990

General information

General Information
Name of transfer payment program CANARIE Inc.
Start date 1993
End date March 31, 2020
Type of transfer payment Contribution
Type of appropriation Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions 2014–15
Link to department's Program Inventory Higher Education Sector Science and Research
Description Established in 1993, CANARIE is a non-profit corporation, with the major investment in its programs and activities provided by the Government of Canada. CANARIE operates and develops the backbone of Canada's advanced, high-speed research network, and facilitates and supports publicly funded research and innovation. In partnership with regional advanced networks, the CANARIE network connects Canadian research facilities, universities, educational institutions, hospitals and other science facilities as well as links them to their international peers. It is an essential tool for researchers, innovators and educators.
Expected results
  • Enhanced opportunities for collaborative knowledge creation and innovation within Canada's research and education communities through the maintenance and development of the CANARIE Network and related tools and services.
  • Expansion of the research and education community's access to and utilization of the CANARIE Network and the availability of tools and programming that increase the effectiveness of its use.
  • Enabling the creation of innovative ICT products and services and the acceleration of their commercialization in Canada.
Fiscal year of last completed evaluation 2014–15
Decision following the results of last evaluation

Renewed funding of $105 million for CANARIE was announced in Budget 2015.

Evaluation's main findings:

  • There is a continued need for the funding of CANARIE. CANARIE helps to address Canada's innovation gap and more specifically its large-scale research collaboration gap;
  • Federal support of CANARIE is consistent with the roles and responsibilities of ISED and is similar to support provided in other countries around the world;
  • CANARIE has generally been successful in achieving its objectives and related short-term outcomes. Over the evaluation period, it expanded and upgraded its network capabilities, increased and improved access to the network and kept up with network demand;
  • CANARIE has demonstrated continuing efforts to achieve efficiencies, has kept overhead costs within the maximum amount allowed, and is generally on track to meet its cost-recovery targets; and
  • ISED's relatively small investment in CANARIE is efficient in that it provides the necessary infrastructure to support the significantly larger total government investments in R&D.

Overall, the evaluation did not find any major issues. The evaluation provided one recommendation:

  • ISED should continue to monitor the implementation of CANARIE's performance measurement system to ensure that long-term outcomes are appropriately tracked to support public reporting, departmental decision-making and future evaluations.
Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation 2019–20
General targeted recipient groups CANARIE is a single recipient transfer payment program.
Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients ISED maintains ongoing dialogue with the recipient and reviewed the Annual Business Plan and Annual Report that CANARIE submitted to monitor progress towards the achievement of expected results as well as compliance with the terms and conditions of the Contribution Agreement. A government official also attends CANARIE Board of Directors meetings as an observer.
Planning information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment 2017–18
Forecast spending
2018–19
Planned spending
2019–20
Planned spending
2020–21
Planned spending
Total grants - - - -
Total contributions 22,300,000 20,848,727 23,548,728 -
Total other types of transfer payments - - - -
Total program 22,300,000 20,848,727 23,548,728 -

General information

General Information
Name of transfer payment program Centre for Drug Research and Development (CDRD)
Start date April 1, 2017
End date March 31, 2019
Type of transfer payment Contribution
Type of appropriation Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions 2017–18
Link to department's Program Inventory Higher Education Sector Science and Research
Description The Centre for Drug Research and Development (CDRD) is a not-for-profit organization established in 2007 that works in partnership with academia, industry, government and foundations, to identify and de-risk promising discoveries in drug technology in order to stimulate increased private sector investment in the development and commercialization of related technologies. The CDRD links researchers from institutions across Canada and internationally, and provides researchers and entrepreneurs access to mentors, state-of-the-art expertise and infrastructure to facilitate drug discovery and development activities.
Expected results
  • Expand the CDRD's reach to health researchers and entrepreneurs across Canada to accelerate drug development and commercialization.
  • Expand the commercial benefits gained from investments in basic health research.
  • Create a robust pipeline of health technologies capable of achieving commercial success.
Fiscal year of last completed evaluation Not applicable, new program
Decision following the results of last evaluation Not applicable, new program
Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation Not applicable
General targeted recipient groups CDRD is a single recipient transfer payment program.
Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients ISED maintains an ongoing dialogue with CDRD and will review the Corporate Plan and Annual Report that CDRD will submit each year to monitor progress towards the achievement of expected results and compliance with the terms and conditions of the contribution agreement.
Planning information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment 2017–18
Forecast spending
2018–19
Planned spending
2019–20
Planned spending
2020–21
Planned spending
Total grants - - - -
Total contributions 16,000,000 16,000,000 - -
Total other types of transfer payments - - - -
Total program 16,000,000 16,000,000 - -

General information

General Information
Name of transfer payment program Canada Foundation for Innovation
Start date April 25, 1998
End date March 31, 2023
Type of transfer payment Contribution
Type of appropriation Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions 2015–16
Link to department's Program Inventory Higher Education Sector Science and Research
Description The Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI) is an independent non-profit corporation created by the Government of Canada to fund research infrastructure. The CFI's mandate is to strengthen the capacity of Canadian universities, colleges, research hospitals and non-profit research institutions to carry out world-class research and technology development that benefits Canadians.
Expected results
  • Attract and retain the world's top research talent.
  • Train the next generation of researchers.
  • Enable researchers to undertake world-class research and technology development that lead to social, economic and environmental benefits for Canada.
  • Support private-sector innovation and commercialization.
Fiscal year of last completed evaluation 2014–15
Decision following the results of last evaluation

Renewed funding of the CFI was announced in Budget 2015 for 1.33 billion, starting in 2017–18.

The 2014-15 third-party evaluation noted the following findings:

  • The CFI clearly met a continued need, and its mandate, role and approach to doing so are appreciated by stakeholders;
  • The CFI should continue to remain attuned and responsive to the needs and expectations of its range of stakeholders, as well as to any shifts or changes in the landscape of the research support ecosystem;
  • The CFI continued to build upon its earlier successes and had strong performance for each of the outcomes in its logic model and for each of the Expected Results in the 2010 Funding Agreement;
  • The CFI has a proven track record of efficiency and economy over many years, and its design and delivery, and overall business model, were strongly endorsed by stakeholders; and
  • The CFI's advocacy agenda is important and the CFI should continue to advocate for long-term stable funding.

Overall, the evaluation did not find any major issues and made one recommendation:

  • The CFI should consider adding outcomes to its logic model that more directly align with the Expected Results in its funding agreements and that reflects what the CFI achieves for other stakeholders, not just for recipient institutions.
Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation 2019–20
General targeted recipient groups The CFI is a single recipient transfer payment program. The CFI awards funds to non-profit organizations (specifically universities, colleges, research hospitals and non-profit research organizations).
Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients ISED maintains an ongoing dialogue with the CFI and reviews the Corporate Plan and Annual Report that CFI submits each year to monitor progress toward the achievement of expected results and compliance with the terms and conditions of its funding agreements. Government officials also attend CFI Board of Directors meetings as observers.
Planning information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment 2017–18
Forecast spending
2018–19
Planned spending
2019–20
Planned spending
2020–21
Planned spending
Total grants - - - -
Total contributions 250,900,000 330,700,000 327,300,000 283,300,000
Total other types of transfer payments - - - -
Total program 250,900,000 330,700,000 327,300,000 283,300,000

General information

General Information
Name of transfer payment program Canadian Institute for Advanced Research
Start date 1986
End date March 31, 2022
Type of transfer payment Contribution
Type of appropriation Statutory Contribution, Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions 2016–17
Link to department's Program Inventory Higher Education Sector Science and Research
Description The Canadian Institute for Advanced Research (CIFAR) is a not-for-profit organization that supports networks of Canadian and international researchers who conduct long-term research on important scientific, social and economic issues. Promoting world-class research partnerships on these issues helps build research capacity in Canada. At present, CIFAR supports 14 research programs with 407 researchers in a range of areas, including experience-based brain and biological development, nanoelectronics, and quantum information processing.
Expected results
  • Highly qualified personnel, including post-doctoral fellows, develop and broaden their Research capabilities through their participation on international, interdisciplinary Research teams.
  • Research is strengthened with the use of interdisciplinary models.
  • Increased national and international Research interactions and collaboration.
  • Research knowledge is promoted, and disseminated.
  • Federal investment enables the Recipient to leverage Research funding from other sources.
Fiscal year of last completed evaluation 2016–17
Decision following the results of last evaluation

Budget 2017 provided renewed and enhanced funding for CIFAR of $35 million over the next five years.

While the overall CIFAR evaluation was quite positive, the evaluators did suggest that in order to draw more meaningful conclusions about the economy and efficiency of CIFAR's operations, ISED should work with CIFAR to update its Performance Measurement Strategy to include additional efficiency indicators. Consideration could be given to identifying efficiency-related comparable (i.e. benchmarking) and targets to further assess CIFAR's operations.

Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation 2021–22
General targeted recipient groups CIFAR is a single recipient transfer payment program.
Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients ISED maintains ongoing dialogue with CIFAR and reviews the Corporate Plan and Annual Report that CIFAR submits each year to monitor progress towards the achievement of expected results and compliance with the terms and conditions of the funding agreement.
Planning information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment 2017–18
Forecast spending
2018–19
Planned spending
2019–20
Planned spending
2020–21
Planned spending
Total grants - - - -
Total contributions 14,500,000 32,000,000 32,000,000 37,000,000
Total other types of transfer payments - - - -
Total program 14,500,000 32,000,000 32,000,000 37,000,000

General information

General Information
Name of transfer payment program Genome Canada
Start date March 27, 2000
End date March 31, 2024
Type of transfer payment Grant and Contribution
Type of appropriation Statutory Grant, Statutory Contribution, Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions 2012–13
Link to department's Program Inventory Higher Education Sector Science and Research
Description Genome Canada is a not-for-profit corporation that supports six independently incorporated regional Genome Centres across Canada. With the Genome Centres and other partners, Genome Canada invests in large-scale research projects, leading-edge technology platforms, and translation of research into applications, in key areas such as health, agriculture, the environment, fisheries, aquaculture, forestry, mining, and energy. Genome Canada also supports research projects aimed at studying and analyzing the ethical, environmental, economic, legal, and social issues related to genomics (GE3LS).
Expected results

Increased breadth and depth of knowledge in genomics, including knowledge related to the ethical, environmental, economic, legal and social issues of genomics.

Canada has a solid base of researchers who are trained to undertake future genomics research.

The translation of research discoveries into applications in the public and private sectors leads to socio-economic benefits either directly or through development toward, for example, commercialization.

Canadian genomics research is enabled through the provision of leading-edge genomics, proteomics, metabolomics and bioinformatics technologies.

Canada's international profile and visibility in genomics research is enhanced.

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation 2014–15
Decision following the results of last evaluation

Budget 2016 proposed to provide $237.2 million to Genome Canada to the end of 2019–20.

The evaluation findings were positive overall with regard to the achievement of Genome Canada's expected outcomes over the five-year period (2009-10 to 2013-14).

Findings showed that Genome Canada had clearly contributed to enhancing support and capacity for genomics research in Canada in accordance with its national strategy, more specifically by focusing on priority strategic sectors and on increasing coordination, as well as through the development of highly qualified personnel (HQP) in genomics.

Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation 2019–20
General targeted recipient groups Genome Canada is a single recipient transfer payment program.
Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients ISED maintains an ongoing dialogue with Genome Canada and reviews the Corporate Plan and Annual Report that Genome Canada submits each year to monitor progress towards the achievement of expected results and compliance with the terms and conditions of the funding agreements Government officials also attend Genome Canada Board of Directors meetings as an observer.
Planning information (dollars)
Type of
transfer payment
2017–18
Forecast spending
2018–19
Planned spending
2019–20
Planned spending
2020–21
Planned spending
Total grants 1,700,000 - - -
Total contributions 57,400,000 73,100,000 67,400,000 38,000,000
Total other types of transfer payments - - - -
Total program 59,100,000 73,100,000 67,400,000 38,000,000

General information

General Information
Name of transfer payment program Mitacs Inc.
Start date April 1, 2012
End date March 31, 2022
Type of transfer payment Contribution
Type of appropriation Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions 2012–13
Link to department's Program Inventory Talent Development
Description Mitacs Inc. (Mitacs) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to promoting high-quality research and innovation by building linkages between academia and industry, and strengthening linkages between researchers and students in Canada and abroad across all academic disciplines. Through its Accelerate program, Mitacs provides opportunities for graduate students and postdoctoral fellows to apply their expertise to business-related research challenges through four- to six-month internships with companies and not-for-profit corporations. Through its Globalink program, Mitacs provides short-term research internships in Canada for foreign senior undergraduate and/or graduate students from priority countries, short-term research internships in priority countries for Canadian senior undergraduate and/or graduate students, and graduate fellowships for top international alumni of the research internships who pursue graduate studies in Canada. Through its Elevate program, Mitacs provides postdoctoral fellows with industry-relevant research experience and training that help them develop the skills necessary to lead and manage research and development projects within industry.
Expected results
  • Increased collaboration and knowledge transfer between academia and industry.
  • Increased participation of students in international research and educational opportunities.
  • Innovative solutions to industry challenges needs and issues.
  • Enhanced skills amongst participating interns, postdoctoral fellows and researchers.
Fiscal year of last completed evaluation 2016–17
Decision following the results of last evaluation

Renewed and expanded funding of $221 million in funding over five years for Mitacs was announced in Budget 2017.

Overall, the evaluation was positive, stating the program has contributed to investments in industrial research and development by industry partners during and after the conclusion of their Mitacs projects and that Mitacs has improved the employment prospects of its interns by providing on-the-job experience and networking opportunities. The evaluation also concluded that Mitacs responds to the ongoing need to increase Canadian innovation by using internships to facilitate linkages between academia and industry and increase international collaboration. An area for improvement was to enhance the measurement of the organization's impact on overall industry-academia collaboration in Canada.

Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation 2021–22
General targeted recipient groups Mitacs Inc. is a single recipient transfer payment program.
Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients ISED maintains an ongoing dialogue with Mitacs and reviews the Corporate Plan and Annual Report that Mitacs submits each year to monitor progress towards the achievement of expected results and compliance with the terms and conditions of the contribution agreements. An ISED official attends Mitacs Board of Directors meetings as an observer.
Planning information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment 2017–18
Forecast spending
2018–19
Planned spending
2019–20
Planned spending
2020–21
Planned spending
Total grants - - - -
Total contributions 51,000,000 66,000,000 75,000,000 78,000,000
Total other types of transfer payments - - - -
Total program 51,000,000 66,000,000 75,000,000 78,000,000

General information

General Information
Name of transfer payment program CanCode
Start date June 8, 2017
End date March 31, 2019
Type of transfer payment Contribution
Type of appropriation Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions 2017–18
Link to department's Program Inventory Talent Development
Description CanCode supports the development of skills that Canada's youth and their teachers will need to participate in a digital economy by providing them access to coding education and experiences.
Expected results

CanCode is expected to achieve the following results:

  1. Students across Canada will have access to coding and digital skills education opportunities;
  2. Canadian teachers will have access to tools and training to give them the confidence and knowledge to engage K-12 youth in developing coding and digital skills training;
  3. There will be more of a balance between the sexes in STEM fields in Canadian post-secondary institutions;
  4. There will be an increase in the proportion of the employed Canadian population with a post-secondary credential in STEM (bachelor degrees, diplomas, and;
  5. Canadians will develop the talent and digital skills required for the workforce of tomorrow.
Fiscal year of last completed evaluation Not applicable, new program
Decision following the results of last evaluation Not applicable, new program
Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation Not applicable
General targeted recipient groups Not-for-profit organizations incorporated in Canada that have a footprint in the coding and digital skills sector across Canada.
Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients ISED maintains an ongoing dialogue with CanCode recipients and reviews/approves submitted quarterly claims, quarterly progress reports and annual reports to monitor progress towards the achievement of expected results and compliance with the terms and conditions of the contribution agreement.
Planning information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment 2017–18
Forecast spending
2018–19
Planned spending
2019–20
Planned spending
2020–21
Planned spending
Total grants - - - -
Total contributions 13,342,480 29,009,135 - -
Total other types of transfer payments - - - -
Total program 13,342,480 29,009,135 - -

General information

General Information
Name of transfer payment program Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics
Start date April 1, 2007
End date July 31, 2022
Type of transfer payment Contribution
Type of appropriation Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions 2017–18
Link to department's Program Inventory Higher Education Sector Science and Research
Description The Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics is a not-for-profit research institute devoted to foundational issues in theoretical physics at the highest levels of international excellence. The Institute pursues scientific research and engages in educational outreach activities, bringing together international scientists to push the limits of understanding of physical laws and develop new ideas about the essence of space, time, matter and information. The Institute provides a multidisciplinary environment to foster research in cosmology, particle physics, quantum foundations, quantum gravity, quantum information, superstring theory and related areas.
Expected results
  • National and international collaborations are formed and maintained.
  • High-calibre students are attracted to and participate in the Institute's graduate training programs.
  • Teachers are attracted to and participate in the Institute's educator training opportunities.
  • The Canadian public becomes more informed about the benefits of science and of theoretical physics research.
  • High quality and novel research is published and disseminated.
  • Alumni of the Institute's postdoctoral training program are actively recruited by employers.
  • Canada is ranked as a world leader in physics research.
Fiscal year of last completed evaluation 2016–17
Decision following the results of last evaluation

Budget 2016 announced renewal of $50 million over five years for Perimeter. The last completed ISED evaluation of Perimeter in 2010-11 was highly positive, finding that PI:

  • Has made a sizeable impact on the Canadian physics landscape;
  • Produces research that develops highly innovative and challenging advances in theoretical physics;
  • Created a unique research environment that fosters cutting-edge research;
  • Attracts top talent from around the world, with a low turnover ratio;
  • Maintains a high quality training environment; and
  • Engages with high impact outreach that is vibrant, influencing the awareness, interest and desire of target audiences.

The only recommendations were minor and potentially improved upon since 2011: larger, more senior core groups in certain research areas; making connections to activity beyond physics; and more interactivity with other institutions.

Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation 2021–22
General targeted recipient groups The Perimeter Institute is a single recipient transfer payment program.
Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients ISED maintains ongoing dialogue with the Perimeter Institute and reviews the Corporate Plan and Annual Report that the Perimeter Institute submits each year to monitor progress towards the achievement of expected results and compliance with the terms and conditions of the funding agreement. Site visits and ISED attendance at Perimeter events are used to provide direct experience of the Institute's performance and activities for ISED employees engaged in providing oversight.
Planning information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment 2017–18
Forecast spending
2018–19
Planned spending
2019–20
Planned spending
2020–21
Planned spending
Total grants - - - -
Total contributions 10,000,000 10,000,000 10,000,000 10,000,000
Total other types of transfer payments - - - -
Total program 10,000,000 10,000,000 10,000,000 10,000,000

General information

General Information
Name of transfer payment program Post-Secondary Institutions Strategic Investment Fund
Start date April 14, 2016
End date December 31, 2019
Type of transfer payment Non-repayable contribution
Type of appropriation Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions 2016–17
Link to department's Program Inventory Higher Education Science and Research
Description The Post-Secondary Institutions Strategic Investment Fund's objective is the acceleration of strategic construction, repair and maintenance activities at universities and colleges across Canada. The program will generate direct economic activity and enhance the research infrastructure at post-secondary institutions in order to strengthen capacity for research and innovation; improve industry-related training; and to support environmental sustainability.
Expected results

Expected results are:

  • Direct economic activity in local economies across Canada;
  • Improved research and innovation-related post-secondary infrastructure;
  • Improved college infrastructure for industry-relevant training; and
  • Improved environmental sustainability of research and innovation related infrastructure at post-secondary institutions, and college training infrastructure.

Performance Indicators include:

  • Total funds expended by April 30, 2018, by province/territory;
  • Number of infrastructure jobs created (such as contractors, engineers and architects);
  • Level of impact funded infrastructure had on the research, innovation and specialized training environments including the number of spaces constructed and/or renewed;
  • Number of additional researchers, including instructors, maintenance and support staff that can be accommodated as a result of the funded infrastructure;
  • Number of additional students to perform research or be trained annually as a result of funded infrastructure; and
  • Improved Energy Efficiency and Reduced Greenhouse Gas Emissions.
Fiscal year of last completed evaluation Not Applicable - New program
Decision following the results of last evaluation Not Applicable - New program
Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation 2018–19
General targeted recipient groups Ultimate recipients of the PSI-SIF program are accredited post-secondary institutions, Aboriginal-controlled post-secondary institutions, and affiliated organizations. The majority of projects are funded through Contribution Agreements with provincial and territorial governments.
Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients Following the launch of the program, provincial and territorial governments (P/Ts) were engaged on program requirements and timelines, as were associations representing post-secondary institutions. Provincial and territorial governments were fully engaged throughout the negotiation of the contribution agreements; and were invited to submit a list of priority projects in their respective jurisdictions that they were willing to financially support. The provinces and territories continue to be involved with the program with a government official acting as a Co-Chair on the Regional Steering Committee.
Planning information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment 2017–18
Forecast spending
2018–19
Planned spending
2019–20
Planned spending
2020–21
Planned spending
Total grants - - - -
Total contributions 733,219,000 510,034,830 - -
Total other types of transfer payments - - - -
Total program 733,219,000 510,034,830 - -

General information

General Information
Name of transfer payment program Stem Cell Network
Start date July 22, 2016
End date March 31, 2019
Type of transfer payment Contribution
Type of appropriation Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions 2016–17
Link to department's Program Inventory Higher Education Sector Science and Research
Description The Stem Cell Network (SCN) is a national not-for-profit corporation dedicated to enabling the translation of stem cell research into clinical applications, commercial products and public policy. It was first established in 2001 as one of the Networks of Centres of Excellence (NCE). SCN links to 27 Canadian universities and hospitals, and international collaborators from 39 institutions in eight countries. The contribution to SCN is non-repayable.
Expected results
  • Canada's international profile and visibility in stem cell research and clinical trials is enhanced.
  • Translation of stem cell research into clinical applications and commercial products.
  • Increase networking and collaboration among researchers from Canada and abroad.
  • Canada has a solid base of researchers that are trained to undertake future stem cell research.
  • Increased breadth and depth of knowledge related to the ethical, environmental, economic, legal and social issues of stem cells.
Fiscal year of last completed evaluation Not applicable, new program
Decision following the results of last evaluation Not applicable, new program
Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation Not applicable
General targeted recipient groups Stem Cell Network is a single recipient transfer payment
Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients ISED maintains an ongoing dialogue with Stem cell Network and reviews the Corporate Plan and Annual Report that Stem Cell Network submits each year to monitor progress towards the achievement of expected results and compliance with the terms and conditions of the contribution agreement.
Planning information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment 2017–18
Forecast spending
2018–19
Planned spending
2019–20
Planned spending
2020–21
Planned spending
Total grants - - - -
Total contributions 5,205,468 6,000,000 - -
Total other types of transfer payments - - - -
Total program 5,205,468 6,000,000 - -

General information

General Information
Name of transfer payment program Institute for Quantum Computing
Start date April 1, 2014
End date March 31, 2019
Type of transfer payment Contribution
Type of appropriation Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions 2014–15
Link to department's Program Inventory Higher Education Sector Science and Research
Description The Institute for Quantum Computing (IQC) is a research institute based at the University of Waterloo and located on the main campus in Waterloo, Ontario. IQC's mission is to be the world leader in the development of quantum technologies, and its objective is to create a supportive environment for physicists, mathematicians, engineers and computer scientists to advance the fields of quantum information and quantum computation.
Expected results
  • Increase knowledge in quantum information science and technology;
  • Support and create opportunities for students to learn and apply new knowledge;
  • Brand Canada as a place to conduct research in quantum information technologies;
  • Increased awareness and knowledge of quantum information science and technology and IQC in both the scientific community and amongst Canadians more generally; and
  • Position Canada to take advantage of economic and social benefits of research through seizing opportunities to commercialize breakthrough research.
Fiscal year of last completed evaluation 2013–14
Decision following the results of last evaluation

Renewed funding of IQC of $15 million over three years was announced in Budget 2014.

Evaluation's Main Findings:

  • There is continued need to increase Canada's research and innovation capacity and IQC is uniquely positioned, within Canada and internationally, to contribute to the development of quantum sciences and its related technologies;
  • Support for IQC is consistent with federal government priorities related to science and technology as set out in the 2007 S&T Strategy and subsequent Federal Budgets;
  • Support for IQC is consistent with federal roles and responsibilities to encourage the development of science and technology and aligns with Industry Canada's mandate;
  • Overall, IQC is achieving the majority of its immediate outcomes;
  • IQC's research has increased in intensity and excellence as demonstrated by improved collaboration networks, increased publication and citation rates, as well as its reputation in the scientific community; and
  • IQC's current delivery structure has demonstrated efficiency and economy by leveraging additional resources, minimizing transaction costs and using existing University of Waterloo management processes.
  • Overall, the evaluation did not find any major issues and made no recommendations.
Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation 2018–19
General targeted recipient groups The IQC is a single recipient transfer payment program. The funding flows from ISED to IQC through a funding agreement with the University of Waterloo.
Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients ISED maintains ongoing dialogue with IQC and reviews the Corporate Plan and Annual Report that IQC submits each year to monitor progress towards the achievement of expected results and compliance with the terms and conditions of the funding agreement.
Planning information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment 2017–18
Forecast spending
2018–19
Planned spending
2019–20
Planned spending
2020–21
Planned spending
Total grants - - - -
Total contributions 5,000,000 5,000,000 - -
Total other types of transfer payments - - - -
Total program 5,000,000 5,000,000 - -

General information

General Information
Name of transfer payment program Sustainable Development Technology Canada (SDTC) – SD Tech Fund™
Start date March 26, 2001
End date Ongoing
Type of transfer payment Contribution
Type of appropriation Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions 2016–17
Link to department's Program Inventory Clean Technology and Clean Growth
Description SDTC supports the development and demonstration of innovative Canadian technological solutions that address issues related to climate change, clean air, clean water and clean soil. This transfer payment program provides non-repayable contributions.
Expected results
  • Annual reductions of greenhouse gases resulting from environmental technologies funded under the SD Tech Fund.
  • Other environmental impacts of SD Tech Fund-supported technologies.
  • Dollars leveraged by private and other public funders.
Fiscal year of last completed evaluation 2012–13
Decision following the results of last evaluation

Following the last evaluation, Budget 2013, 2016 and 2017 made available $325 million, $50 million and $400 million respectively to SDTC for the SD Tech Fund.

Broadly, the last evaluation found that SDTC is meeting the mandated purpose and objectives, as set out for the SD Tech Fund.

In addition, Report 3 (Funding Clean Energy Technologies) of the 2017 Fall Reports of the Commissioner of the Environment and Sustainable Development found that SDTC had rigorous and objective processes in place to assess, approve, and monitor projects but identified some shortcomings on the documentation of their assessments. SDTC has indicated that it accepts the audit recommendation and as such will document its assessment of environmental benefits when approving projects.

Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation 2017–18
General targeted recipient groups Funding provided under the SD Tech Fund is intended to benefit firms with sustainable development technology projects, helping them make progress towards commercialization. The Fund targets all major economic sectors in Canada and is national in scope.
Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients SDTC undertakes outreach activities to attract more eligible recipients and to improve the quality and viability of project proposals. SDTC adopts a continuous intake model, enabling applicants to apply for funding 365 days of the year and 24 hours a day. SDTC also established partnerships with the interested provinces, such as Alberta, Ontario and British Columbia.
Planning information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment 2017–18
Forecast spending
2018–19
Planned spending
2019–20
Planned spending
2020–21
Planned spending
Total grants - - - -
Total contributions 102,892,000 87,691,000 149,892,259 125,151,957
Total other types of transfer payments - - - -
Total program 102,892,000 87,691,000149,892,259 125,151,957

General information

General Information
Name of transfer payment program Community Futures Program
Start date 1986
End date Ongoing
Type of transfer payment Contribution
Type of appropriation Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions 2010–11
Link to department's Program Inventory Economic Development in Northern Ontario
Description The Community Futures Program (CFP) is a national program administered by ISED in Northern Ontario and the regional development agencies in the rest of Canada. The ultimate objectives of the program are to foster economic stability, growth and job creation; help create diversified and competitive local rural economies; and help build economically sustainable communities. ISED provides financial support to 24 Community Futures Development Corporations (CFDCs) in Northern Ontario, that are incorporated, not-for-profit, community-based development organizations, each governed by a local volunteer board of directors. They offer a variety of products and services to support small business growth and community economic development, including access to capital; strategic community planning and socio-economic development; support for community-based projects and special initiatives; and business information, planning and support services. ISED provides financial contributions to support the ongoing operations of individual CFDCs through either one, three or five-year agreements.
Expected results

Expected Results:

  • Communities and businesses in Northern Ontario acquire the skills and capacity to respond to economic development opportunities
  • Communities and businesses in Northern Ontario have access to financial resources to respond to economic development opportunities

Performance Measures / Indicators:

  • Number of jobs created and maintained in Northern Ontario as a result of CFDC lending activities
  • Dollars leveraged per dollar invested by CFDCs
Fiscal year of last completed evaluation 2014–15
Decision following the results of last evaluation Continuation
Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation 2018–19
General targeted recipient groups Non-profit organizations (Community Futures Organizations including locally-based CFDCs, CFDC regional networks, and the provincial association).
Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients ISED will continue to work collaboratively with Community Futures Organizations, including CFDCs, their regional networks and provincial associations, through various activities including outreach/liaison, capacity building, program and policy development, referrals, compliance monitoring in regard to contribution agreements and other collaborative activities.
Planning information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment 2017–18
Forecast spending
2018–19
Planned spending
2019–20
Planned spending
2020–21
Planned spending
Total grants - - - -
Total contributions 8,360,008 8,360,008 8,360,008 8,360,008
Total other types of transfer payments - - - -
Total program 8,360,008 8,360,008 8,360,008 8,360,008

General information

General Information
Name of transfer payment program Northern Ontario Development Program
Start date April 1, 1996
End date Ongoing
Type of transfer payment Contribution
Type of appropriation Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions 2011–12
Link to department's Program Inventory Economic Development in Northern Ontario
Description The Northern Ontario Development Program (NODP) is administered by ISED. The NODP's objective is to promote economic development, economic diversification, job creation and sustainable, self-reliant communities in Northern Ontario. This is achieved by providing financial support, through transfer payments, to small and medium-sized enterprises and not-for-profit organizations, including municipalities, municipal organizations, community development organizations and research institutions, in three priority areas: community economic development, business growth and competitiveness, and innovation.
Expected results

Expected Results:

  • Communities and businesses in Northern Ontario acquire the skills and capacity to respond to economic development opportunities
  • Communities and businesses in Northern Ontario have access to financial resources to respond to economic development opportunities

Performance Measures/Indicators:

  • Number of jobs created or maintained in Northern Ontario as a direct result of FedNor projects
  • Dollars leveraged per dollar invested in community projects in Northern Ontario
Fiscal year of last completed evaluation 2016–17
Decision following the results of last evaluation Continuation
Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation 2020–21
General targeted recipient groups Eligible recipients for NODP include not-for profit and for-profit organizations (small and medium-sized enterprises), including community development organizations, Indigenous organizations, municipalities and municipal organizations, First Nations and post-secondary institutions. 
Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients ISED will continue to work collaboratively with Northern Ontario stakeholders, applicants, recipients and partners through outreach/liaison activities with communities and small and medium-sized enterprises, assistance with project development and referrals, compliance monitoring in regard to contribution agreements, and other collaborative activities with other federal departments and Ontario provincial ministries.
Planning information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment 2017–18
Forecast spending
2018–19
Planned spending
2019–20
Planned spending
2020–21
Planned spending
Total grants - - - -
Total contributions 32,640,000 36,440,000 36,440,000 36,440,000
Total other types of transfer payments - - - -
Total program 32,640,000 36,440,000 36,440,000 36,440,000

Disclosure of transfer payment programs under $5 million

General information

General Information
Name of transfer payment program Accessible Technology Program
End date March 31, 2022
Type of transfer payment Contribution
Type of appropriation Appropriated annually through Estimates
Link to department's Program Inventory Bridging Digital Divides
Main objective The Program seeks to fund the development of new adaptive and assistive technology solutions for Canadians living with disabilities in order to increase accessibility to the Internet, remove barriers to ensure greater opportunities to join in and be active members in the workforce, and enable greater participation in the digital economy.
Planned spending in 2018–19 3,413,743
Fiscal year of last completed evaluation Not applicable, new program
Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation (if applicable) Not applicable
General targeted recipient groups Not-for-profit organizations, for-profit organizations and research institutes

General information

General Information
Name of transfer payment program Digital Literacy Exchange Program
End date March 31, 2022
Type of transfer payment Contribution
Type of appropriation Appropriated annually through Estimates
Link to department's Program Inventory Bridging Digital Divides
Main objective The program supports not-for-profit organizations in the development and delivery of fundamental digital literacy skills training to Canadians who would benefit from increased participation in the digital economy.
Planned spending in 2018–19 4,294,315
Fiscal year of last completed evaluation Not applicable, new program
Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation (if applicable) 2022–23
General targeted recipient groups Not-for-profit organizations

General information

General Information
Name of transfer payment program Affordable Access initiative
End date March 31, 2022
Type of transfer payment Contribution
Type of appropriation Appropriated annually through Estimates
Link to department's Program Inventory Bridging Digital Divides
Main objective The affordable access initiative was designed to help close gaps in Internet affordability and accessibility across the country. The initiative will bring together offerings to low-income Canadians to receive both a refurbished computer and a low-cost Internet connection. The funding will support the development of a secure online portal, which will allow eligible low-income Canadians to register for low-cost home Internet packages offered by participating Internet Service Providers. In addition, the funding will allow the existing Computers for Schools program to distribute an incremental 50,000 computers to the eligible households. A primary objective of this initiative will be to make affordable technology more available for low-income Canadians so they can participate in the digital economy.
Planned spending in 2018–19 2,428,439
Fiscal year of last completed evaluation Not applicable, new program.
Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation (if applicable) Not applicable
General targeted recipient groups Computers for Success Canada (not-for-profit organization)

General information

General Information
Name of transfer payment program Contributions Program for Non-Profit Consumer and Voluntary Organizations
End date Ongoing
Type of transfer payment Contribution
Type of appropriation Appropriated annually through Estimates
Link to department's Program Inventory Consumer Affairs
Main objective The main objective of the Contributions Program is to strengthen the consumer's role in the marketplace through the promotion of sound research and analysis, and by encouraging the financial self-sufficiency of consumer and voluntary organizations.
Planned spending in 2018–19 1,690,000
Fiscal year of last completed evaluation 2014–15
Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation (if applicable) Not applicable
General targeted recipient groups Voluntary organizations that are incorporated as non-profit corporations in Canada.

General information

General Information
Name of transfer payment program Council of Canadian Academies (CCA)
End date March 31, 2020
Type of transfer payment Contribution
Type of appropriation Appropriated annually through Estimates
Link to department's Program Inventory Core responsibility: Science, Technology, Research and Commercialization
Program title: Higher Education Sector Science and Research
Main objective 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.
Planned spending in 2018–19 3,000,000
Fiscal year of last completed evaluation 2017–18
Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation (if applicable) Not applicable
General targeted recipient groups The CCA is a single recipient transfer payment program.

General information

General Information
Name of transfer payment program Let's Talk Science Program
End date March 31, 2020
Type of transfer payment Contribution
Type of appropriation Appropriated annually through Estimates
Link to department's Program Inventory Talent Development
Main objective 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.
Planned spending in 2018–19 2,700,000
Fiscal year of last completed evaluation Not applicable
Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation (if applicable) Not applicable
General targeted recipient groups Let's Talk Science is a single recipient transfer payment program.

General information

General Information
Name of transfer payment program Radio Advisory Board of Canada
End date Ongoing
Type of transfer payment Grant
Type of appropriation Appropriated annually through Estimates
Link to department's Program Inventory Spectrum and Telecommunications
Main objective To enable the Radio Advisory Board of Canada (RABC) to provide advice and make recommendations on the technical standards for radiocommunications and telecommunications apparatus.
Planned spending in 2018–19 85,000
Fiscal year of last completed evaluation 2014–15
Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation (if applicable) Not applicable
General targeted recipient groups Non-profit association. The RABC is the sole eligible recipient of grants under the program.

General information

General Information
Name of transfer payment program Internal Trade Secretariat Corporation
End date Ongoing
Type of transfer payment Grant
Type of appropriation Appropriated annually through Estimates
Link to department's Program Inventory Business Policy and Analysis
Main objective

ISED provides a grant to the Internal Trade Secretariat Corporation (ITSC) to cover 50% of its operating costs, up to a maximum of $550,000, in accordance with Canada's obligations under the Canadian Free Trade Agreement (CFTA). The remaining 50% of the ITSC's operating costs are covered by the Provinces and Territories, which contribute in proportion to their respective populations. The budget of the ITSC is controlled by a Board of Directors composed of one seat for the federal government and each of the Provinces and Territories.

In early 2015, ISED's annual grant to the ITSC was renewed for another 5 years from 2015–2016 until 2019–2020. The specific amounts required by the ITSC vary from year to year depending on the activities in a given year. In previous years, the ITSC often underspent its available budget, rebating or refunding any unspent funds to the contributing Parties in the following fiscal year. Any rebate is likely to be minimal in 2017–18 in view of the elevated costs to support the implementation of the new CFTA and its associated new working groups.

The ITSC provides operational and administrative support to the Committee on Internal Trade (CIT), the Internal Trade Representatives (ITRs), all other CFTA committees and working groups, as well as the Agreement's dispute settlement processes.

Planned spending in 2018–19 550,000
Fiscal year of last completed evaluation 2015–16
Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation (if applicable) Not applicable
General targeted recipient groups Non-profit organization that supports the CFTA

General information

General Information
Name of transfer payment program Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Grants Program
End date 2018–19
Type of transfer payment Grant
Type of appropriation Appropriated annually through Estimates
Link to department's Program Inventory Horizontal Science, Research and Technology Policy
Main objective The OECD Grants Program provides authority to fund specific OECD research projects that advance the mandate priorities of the department. It allows ISED to influence the scope of projects, leveraging OECD expertise and resources to: respond to specific economic and policy analysis gaps; 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.
Planned spending in 2018–19 300,000
Fiscal year of last completed evaluation 2012–13
Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation (if applicable) Not applicable
General targeted recipient groups The OECD Grants Program is a single recipient program, with all grants going to the OECD.

General information

General Information
Name of transfer payment program International Telecommunication Union (ITU), Geneva, Switzerland
End date Ongoing
Type of transfer payment Grant
Type of appropriation Appropriated annually through Estimates
Link to department's Program Inventory Spectrum and Telecommunications
Main objective To allow ISED to achieve results internationally across a broad range of issues affecting radiocommunication, telecommunications standardization and development.
Planned spending in 2018–19 4,808,000
Fiscal year of last completed evaluation 2015–16
Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation (if applicable) Not applicable
General targeted recipient groups United Nations Specialized Agency. The ITU is the sole eligible recipient.

General information

General Information
Name of transfer payment program Economic Development Initiative of the Roadmap for Canada's Official Languages 2013–2018
End date Ongoing
Type of transfer payment Contribution
Type of appropriation Appropriated annually through Estimates
Link to department's Program Inventory Economic Development in Northern Ontario
Main objective The Economic Development Initiative (EDI) aims to facilitate sustainable growth in official language minority communities by encouraging them to acquire new skills through innovation, diversification and partnerships, and providing increased support to small and medium-sized enterprises.
Planned spending in 2018–19 800,000
Fiscal year of last completed evaluation 2017–18
Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation (if applicable) Not applicable
General targeted recipient groups Eligible recipients for EDI include small and medium-sized for-profit and co-operative businesses and non-profit organizations including municipalities, municipal organizations, community development organizations and research institutions within official language minority communities.

General information

General Information
Name of transfer payment program Innovative Solutions Canada
End date March 31, 2022
Type of transfer payment Grant
Type of appropriation Appropriated annually through the Estimates
Link to department's Program Inventory Innovation in Business
Main objective

The objectives of the program are to:

  • Fuel the development and adoption of technological innovation in Canada.
  • Grow Canadian companies through direct funding to support early stage, pre-commercial research and development, late stage prototypes, and to accelerate commercialization.
  • Encourage procurement from companies led by under-represented groups, such as women, Indigenous, youth, disabled individuals, LGBTQ+ and others.
  • Foster greater industry-research collaboration through the release of challenges for solutions that address key Government of Canada priorities.
  • Provide federal departments and agencies with opportunities to develop new capabilities to meet their research and development needs and thereby advance government priorities.
Planned spending in 2018–19 700,000
Fiscal year of last completed evaluation Not applicable
Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation (if applicable) 2020–21
General targeted recipient groups

The program is open to small businesses that:

  • are for profit
  • are incorporated in Canada (federally or provincially)
  • have 499 or fewer full-time equivalent (FTE) employees
  • have research and development activities that take place in Canada
  • have 50% or more of its annual wages, salaries and fees are currently paid to employees and contractors who spend the majority of their time working in Canada
  • have 50% or more of its FTE employees have Canada as their ordinary place of work
  • have 50% or more of its senior executives (Vice President and above) have Canada as their principal residence

General information

General Information
Name of transfer payment program Women Entrepreneurship Strategy
End date 2022–23
Type of transfer payment Grant and Contribution
Type of appropriation Appropriated annually through the Estimates
Link to department's Program Inventory Entrepreneurship Policy
Main objective Helping women entrepreneurs scale up their businesses is a key part of the Government's Innovation and Skills Plan. The new Women Entrepreneurship Strategy will take a comprehensive approach, addressing critical growth stages and other challenges to better support women entrepreneurs, to help them grow their businesses and to remove barriers to their success.
Planned spending in 2018–19 2,837,475
Fiscal year of last completed evaluation Not applicable
Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation (if applicable) Not applicable
General targeted recipient groups Supporting investments in and networks that support women-owned businesses through locally designed solutions with a commitment of $105 million over five years.

General information

General Information
Name of transfer payment program Strategic Activity Program
End date Ongoing
Type of transfer payment Contribution
Type of appropriation Appropriated annually through the Estimates
Link to department's Program Inventory Horizontal Science, Research and Technology Policy
Business Policy and Analysis
Main objective ISED is occasionally presented with the opportunity to support strategic initiatives that are relevant to the aim of various sectors in the Department. As such, ISED requires a program to support such ad hoc initiatives that are consistent with the department's mandate.
Planned spending in 2018–19 810,000
Fiscal year of last completed evaluation Not applicable
Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation (if applicable) Not applicable
General targeted recipient groups The potential recipients of SAP contributions include research institutions and organizations, legal entities including incorporated entities, partnerships, cooperatives, trusts, associations and not-for-profit corporations.

Gender-based analysis plus

Gender-based analysis plus
Governance structures

Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) recognizes the value that gender-based analysis plus (GBA+) provides in the development and implementation of effective policies and programs that meet the needs of diverse groups of men and women according to their socio-economic and demographic considerations.

At ISED, we consider GBA+ as a policy innovation tool that supports innovation in policy development and program design as it helps identify opportunities to do new and creative activities that address needs across various population groups and regions.  At ISED we recognize that GBA+ makes just good policy sense and supports good due diligence practices.

ISED has a departmental GBA+ advisor, housed with the Strategy and Innovation Policy Sector, to review and approve all GBAs completed with the department and portfolio. Since the launch of a new GBA+ questionnaire at ISED in February 2015, it has become mandatory for the GBA+ advisor to review and approve all GBA+ questionnaires completed at the department and portfolio. Responsible programs must also attest that the GBA+ is complete and the results have been integrated into the proposal, as well as monitor implementation.  In addition, the Director General responsible for the proposal must attest that the GBA+ is complete and the results have been integrated in the proposal prior to delivery to the Minister.

The Cabinet Affairs unit at ISED also serves as a check point to ensure that all required steps are completed before a document is sent to PCO. ISED also has a GBA+ sector advisors network to help increase awareness about the value of GBA+ at the departmental sector level.

Together, this governance system ensures:

  • GBA+ systems and processes are fully integrated into policy development and decision making processes at ISED, and GBA analysis must be conducted for all MCs and Treasury Board Submissions. 
  • GBA+ indicators consider results and delivery to facilitate monitoring and reporting to ensure that policies and programs are assessed; and,
  • The GBA+ Champion plays a role in providing leadership and coordination in the implementation and monitoring of GBA+ activities at ISED.
Human resources

ISED has a Director General level GBA Champion who is responsible for leading many GBA activities across the portfolio. ISED's Champion is also active in the GBA Champions community to share best practices and set common goals.

ISED launched a GBA+ sector advisors network to help increase awareness about the value of GBA+ at the departmental sector level.There are 20 GBA+ sector advisors who are responsible for providing guidance on the GBA process.

The Gender Focal Point in the Strategy and Innovation Policy Sector is dedicated to reviewing and approving all GBA+ documents as well as training and supporting ISED members.

Planned initiatives

Advanced GBA+ training: ISED is looking to continue to carry out advanced GBA+ training to ensure that the best practices are incorporated in GBA+ at ISED, as well as engage at external events to promote GBA (for example, in May 2017 during GBA+ Awareness Week, ISED's GBA+ Champion gave a presentation on the Innovation and Skills Plan at a cross-Canada webinar hosted by the Canada School of Public Service).

GBA+ Tools: In November 2017, ISED launched a new GBA+ wiki site which includes a new GBA+ databank. ISED is in the process of developing new GBA+ tools for site, as well as other tools to strengthen early integration of GBA into policy development.

The tracking and monitoring of GBA implications goes hand in hand with the overall tracking of results, both within the department and across Government. Under the Government's Results and Delivery approach, programs are looking to strengthen data coverage, including data which tracks the environmental impacts as outlined in GBAs.

Planned evaluation coverage over the next five fiscal years

Planned evaluation coverage, 2018–19 to 2022–23

Note: As ISED is transitioning to the new requirements of the Policy on Results, this table provides planned evaluation coverage for the period of 2018-19 only. This table will be updated by June 30, 2018, to reflect the final planned evaluation coverage for the next five years.

Planned evaluation coverage, 2018–19 to 2022–23
Program Last evaluation Evaluations planned in the next 5 years Fiscal year of approval 2018–19 Program spending covered by the planned evaluation
(dollars)
2018–19 Program spending covered by all planned evaluations
(dollars)
2018–19 Total program spending
(dollars)
Rationale for not evaluating Program or spending
Talent Development Evaluation of ISED's contribution to Mitacs, 2017–18 Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable 111,623,750 See note above
Entrepreneurship Policy Not applicable Evaluation of Futurpreneur Canada 2018–19 7,000,000 7,000,000 10,419,027 Not applicable
Bridging Digital Divides Evaluation of the Computers for Schools, 2017–18 Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable 286,642,440 See note above
Economic Development in Northern Ontario Horizontal Evaluation of the Economic Development Initiative, 2017–18 Evaluation of the Community Futures Program 2018–19 8,360,008 8,360,008 55,586,424 Not applicable
Consumer Affairs Evaluation of the Office of Consumer Affairs' Contributions Program for Non-Profit Consumer and Voluntary Organizations, 2014–15 Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable 4,153,187 See note above
Higher Education Sector Science and Research Evaluation of the Canadian Institute for Advanced Research, 2017–18 Evaluation of the Institute for Quantum Computing 2018–19 5,000,000 515,034,830 1,013,751,484 Not applicable
Evaluation of the Post-Secondary Institutions Strategic Investment Fund 2018–19 510,034,830
Horizontal Science, Research and Technology Policy Evaluation of Industry Canada's Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Grants Program, 2012–13 Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable 6,790,396 See note above
Innovation Superclusters Initiative Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable 246,213,440 See note above
Support to External Advisors Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable 3,999,220 See note above
Innovation in Business Evaluation of the Strategic Aerospace and Defence Initiative (SADI), 2017–18 Technology Demonstration Program 2018–19 41,201,155 56,718,675 594,902,014 Not applicable
Bombardier C-Series program 2018–19 15,517,520
Support and Financing for Small Business Evaluation of the Canada Small Business Financing Program, 2014–15 Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable 70,978,228 See note above
Business Policy and Analysis Evaluation of ISED's Grant to the Internal Trade Secretariat Corporation, 2015–16 Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable 28,250,079 See note above
Economic Outcomes from Procurement Evaluation of the Industrial and Regional Benefits Policy, 2014–15 Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable 9,435,439 See note above
Digital Service Evaluation of ISED's BizPaL Service, 2015–16 Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable 7,665,571 See note above
Spectrum and Telecommunications Evaluation of the Certification and Engineering Bureau, 2017–18 Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable 63,665,473 See note above
Clean Technology and Clean Growth Evaluation of the Sustainable Technology Development Fund, 2017–18 Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable 91,585,213 See note above
Communication Technologies, Research and Innovation Evaluation of the Communications Research Centre, 2011–12 Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable 26,371,167 See note above
Business Conditions Policy Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable 2,893,308 See note above
Insolvency Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable 4,990,648 See note above
Intellectual Property Evaluation of the Canadian Intellectual Property Office's Patent Services, 2017–18 Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable 24,763,447 See note above
Competition Law Enforcement and Promotion Evaluation of the Competition Bureau's Advocacy Function, 2017–18 Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable 39,193,842 See note above
Federal Incorporation Evaluation of Corporations Canada, 2012–13 Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable 1,129,816 See note above
Investment Review Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable 1,845,134 See note above
Trade Measurement Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable 28,848,958 See note above
Tourism Policy Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable 2,647,246 See note above
Total Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable Not applicable 587,113,513 2,904,881,438 Not applicable

Upcoming internal audits for the coming fiscal year

Internal audits

Upcoming internal audits for the coming fiscal year
Title of internal audit Area being audited Status Expected completion date
Audit of Integrated Risk Management Risk Management In Progress December 2018
Audit of Spectrum Compliance Internal Controls Planned June 2019

Up-front multi-year funding

Up-front multi-year funding
Name of recipient Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation
Start date March 31, 2002
End date Ongoing endowment in perpetuity
Link to department's Program Inventory Core responsibility: Science, Technology, Research and Commercialization
Program title: Higher Education Sector Science and Technology Research
Description

The Trudeau Foundation supports research and disseminates research findings in the following humanities and social sciences: Canadian studies, history, international relations, journalism, law, peace and conflict studies, philosophy, political economy, political science, sociology, and urban and community studies.

Using a peer review process, the Trudeau Foundation offers 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 administers the Public Interaction Program (PIP), which communicates the work of the Foundation through conferences, lectures and symposia.

Total funding approved 125,000,000
Total funding received 125,000,000
Planned funding in 201819 -
Planned funding in 201920 -
Planned funding in 202021 -
Summary of annual plans of recipient
  • The Foundation intends to select fifteen new Trudeau scholars in 2018.
  • The Foundation will name ten Trudeau mentors in 2017-2018 and will match them to the 2015 cohort of Trudeau scholars.
  • The Foundation intends to appoint five new Trudeau fellows in 2018.

Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy

ISED's 2017–20 Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy is available on the Department's website.