ISED's Supplementary Information Tables: 2022–23

From: Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada

Reporting on Green Procurement
Details on transfer payment programs
- TPPs with total actual spending of $5 million or more
- TPPs with total actual spending of less than $5 million
Gender-based analysis plus
- Section 1: Institutional GBA Plus Capacity
- Section 2: Gender and Diversity Impacts, by Program
Response to parliamentary committees and external audits
Response to audits conducted by the Public Service Commission of Canada or the Office of the Commissioner of Official Languages
United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Sustainable Development Goals

Reporting on Green Procurement

FSDS Target(s)	FSDS contributing action(s)	Corresponding departmental action(s)	Starting point(s) Performance indicator(s) Target(s)	Results achieved	Contribution by each departmental result to the FSDS goal and target
Actions supporting the Goal: Greening Government	Support for green procurement will be strengthened, including guidance, tools and training for public service employees	Incorporate environmental considerations into Employee Performance Agreements for functional heads in procurement and materiel management	Starting point: 100% Performance indicator: # of PMAs with environmental considerations included Target: 100% of managers and functional heads in procurement and materiel include environmental considerations in their Performance Management Agreements (PMA) from 2020-2023	In FY 2022-23, 100% of managers and functional heads in procurement and material management had environmental considerations in their PMAs or as part of broader PMA discussions.	SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure By making the C215 training mandatory, environmental considerations have become integrated into the PMAs for procurement and material management functional heads, thusly bolstering green procurement skills across ISED and supporting the FSDS goal of greening government.
	Support for green procurement will be strengthened, including guidance, tools and training for public service employees	Require all contracting and purchasing authorities to take Green Procurement Training (C215 Canada School of Public Service)	Starting point: 100% of new ISED procurement and materiel management specialists take green procurement training Performance indicator: % of new employees who take C215 from the Canada School of Public Service (CSPS) Target: 100%	Effective since April 1, 2006 ISED has made a strong commitment to remain compliant with the Policy on Green Procurement administered by PSPC. In 2012 the Contracting Control Framework was updated to include the mandatory requirement that all contracting officers must follow the free on-line course on Green Procurement (C215) offered by the Canada School of Public Service in order to achieve their Section 41. As such, 100% of ISED's current section 41 holding procurement and material management specialists have completed the green procurement training.	SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure By making the C215 training mandatory for all new procurement and material management specialists, ISED has strengthened its support for green procurement, ultimately supporting the FSDS goal of greening government.
	Other	ISED will digitize the following files: Public Service Employee Survey binder elimination Staffing files (digitized since October 2019) Security screening files digitized by March 31, 2021 Procurement/Contracting Files: Feasibility assessment underway Procurement Process Modernization Initiative (PPMI) and digital signatures underway	Performance indicator: # of files digitized Target: All files and processes are fully digital by 2021-22.	CFSPB: Since FY 2021-22, 100% of new Procurement/ Contracting files are digitized, using established processes and procedures. HRB: Starting from the 2021-22 period, ISED has ceased the production of hardcopy briefing binders for the Public Service Employee Survey (PSES). As of April 1, 2021, all new staffing files continue to be created fully digital CFSB: On February 2, 2021, 100% of security screening files had been digitized.	SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production SDG 13: Climate Action Digitization of files and paper-less procedures supports greening government operations in addition to decreasing the risk of disruption in the event of natural hazards, including climate change considerations. By developing the ISED PSES visualization tool, which digitizes the PSES results, HRB is able to provide PSES results within 24 to 48 hours (rather than 3-4 weeks). This tool motivates users to reduce printing reports and supports the Greening Government Goal. By digitizing staffing files, HRB has reduced its use of paper and need for physical storage space. This supports the Greening Government Goal. SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production This action supports the Greening Government Goal by reducing the use of paper and associated need for physical storage space, reducing waste sent to landfills and reducing GHG emissions from waste transportation. SDG 13: Climate Action Digitization of files and paper-less procedures also decreases the risk of business disruption in the event of natural hazards, including climate change considerations.
	Other	ISED has rolled out Microsoft Teams to all of ISED's employees while continuing to work with SSC to integrate older video conferencing tools with Microsoft Teams. The service allows employees to host and participate in virtual meetings, co-edit documents, and collaborate on projects with their peers without having to travel. Skype for Business is to be decommissioned in 2020-21. Aging teleconference phones are to be replaced with the newest Polycom Trio solution, which will provide Microsoft Teams capabilities in small and medium boardrooms. ISED will continue to release additional Office 365 tools to its users such as Live Event, Forms and Stream to improve ISED's collaboration capabilities.	Starting Point: 70% of ISED's employees actively use Microsoft Teams (June 2020) Performance Indicator: Increase in the use of Microsoft Teams Target: 90% by 2023	As of July 2023, our target was surpassed with 93% of ISED employees actively using MS Teams. Virtual Adoption learning sessions, videos, and the latest information on M365 tools are housed in the Adoption App in MS Teams to inform users on new features, including digital accessibility, as they are rolled out. Skype has been officially decommissioned. The focus has shifted from Polycom Trios to the MS Teams Rooms (MTR) technology in combination with MS Teams Softphones to modernize aging AV equipment. ISED is currently working with SSC on a pilot. The Digital Office team accelerated the deployment of MS Teams to all ISED users due to COVID-19. Because of the pandemic, this resulted in the fast adoption of the technology by ISED users. MS Teams training continues to be offered to ISED users to facilitate the usage of the standard enterprise tool for internal and external collaboration. We continue to collaborate with our external partners to be kept informed of upcoming tools and features being released in order to equip our users with the latest technologies.	SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure The accelerated deployment and employee adoption of MS Teams contributes to the greening government goal as it resulted in lowering greenhouse gas emissions as it enables employees to work from home, reducing the need to commute and also by reducing the need to travel to meet external stakeholders. In addition to this, ISED is expanding its digital accessibility resources to increase online user inclusivity across the organization. The increased use of the technology is assisting ISED to meet its Future of Work objectives by reducing the department's office/space footprint. This is feasible as more employees now have the ability to enter into official teleworking arrangements, reducing the need of individually assigned offices for each employee.

Details on transfer payment programs

TPPs with total actual spending of $5 million or more

Admare Bio Innovations (formerly the Centre for Drug Research and Development)

Start date	April 1, 2017
End date	March 31, 2025
Type of transfer payment	Contribution
Type of appropriation	Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions	2021–22
Link to departmental result(s)	Canadian science, technology and innovation (STIn) research contributes to knowledge transfer
Link to the department's Program Inventory	Science and Research
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program	This single-recipient contribution program provides non-repayable contributions to adMare BioInnovations (adMare). Established in 2019, adMare is a not-for-profit organization that works towards creating a sustainable life science and health technologies industry in Canada. It works together with the NEOMED Institute and adMare Therapeutics (established from the amalgamation of Vancouver-based Centre for Drug Research and Development and Accel-Rx Health Science Accelerator) to identify and de-risk promising discoveries in drug technology. Together, these organizations source therapeutically and commercially promising drug and pharmaceutical research from leading academic and biotech partners. They also train the next generation of science and business leaders to create and grow new companies of scale to become Canadian anchors. Budget 2021 provided funding of $92M over four years to adMare beginning in 2021–22.
Results achieved	In 2022-23, adMare achieved a co-funding ratio of 3.5:1 between federal funding and other funding (excluding seed funding and series investments). The program trained 81 cooperative students, interns, post-doctoral fellows, and scientists, as well as funded 29 collaborations worth a total dollar value of $6,284,841. In 2022-23, adMare undertook 18 collaborations with small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), helped form and scale seven companies and maintained 28 companies in Canada. It provided $7,467,156 in seed funding and series investments into three companies.
Findings of audits completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–2023	An evaluation is planned in 2026–27.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–2023	ISED maintains an ongoing dialogue with CDRD and reviews the Corporate Plan and Annual Report that CDRD submits each year to monitor progress towards the achievement of expected results and compliance with the terms and conditions of the funding agreements.

Financial information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment	2020–21 Actual spending	2021–22 Actual spending	2022–23 Planned spending	2022–23 Total authorities available for use	2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used)	Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned)
Total grants	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total contributions	0	10,300,000	27,700,000	27,700,000	27,700,000	0
Total other types of transfer payments	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total program	0	10,300,000	27,700,000	27,700,000	27,700,000	0
Explanation of variances	N/A – less than 10%

Black Entrepreneurship Program (BEP): Knowledge Hub and Loan Fund

Start date	November 30, 2020
End date	March 31, 2025
Type of transfer payment	Non-repayable contribution
Type of appropriation	Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions	2021–22
Link to departmental result(s)	People and communities from all segments of Canadian society participate in the economy
Link to the department's Program Inventory	Support for Underrepresented Entrepreneurs
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program	Through its three initiatives, BEP aims to break down systemic barriers for Black entrepreneurs by providing targeted support to enhance overall sustainability, and drive growth, competitiveness, innovation, and productivity toward broader economic and social benefits.
Results achieved	In 2022–23, partnerships between the Government of Canada, Black-led business organizations, and financial institutions provided support to Black Canadian business owners and entrepreneurs to grow their businesses through BEP). The Black Entrepreneurship Loan Fund is administered by the Federation of African Canadian Economics (FACE), in partnership with the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) to provide financial support to Black entrepreneurs to start and grow their businesses. In 2022–23 to increase access to capital, FACE took actions to improve its digital presence to enhance and facilitate loan in-take, processing, and client experience for Black entrepreneurs. In 2022–23, the Loan Fund disbursed over $17 million in support of 180 loans, totalling over $25 million in disbursed loans, including those approved in partnership with the BDC. In 2022–23, 21% of clients who were approved for loans were women, 9% were youth (18-30 years old), 63% were newcomers to Canada and 13% were LGBTQ2+. ISED worked with the Regional Development Agencies (RDAs) to select forty-four (44) not-for-profit organizations across the country to receive funding to implement the new National Ecosystem Fund. The fund, which totals nearly $100 million, aims to develop new products and services and expand existing ones in the areas of mentorship, networking, financial planning, and business training for Black Canadian business owners and entrepreneurs. Collectively, these Ecosystem Partners have supported over 5,000 Black Canadians. In 2022–23, the Black Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub, led by Carleton University's Sprott School of Business and Dream Legacy Foundation, established a physical and digital presence, recruited staff and established six regional hubs across the country. The Hub held a number of engagement sessions with Black businesses and academic institutions across the country. The Hub also administered a call for research proposals and selected 8 successful applicants to conduct community-based research on the Black entrepreneurship ecosystem in Canada. In February 2023, the Hub hosted recipients of the Black Entrepreneurship Program to share lessons learned and explore mechanisms for collaboration among the three components of the program.
Findings of audits completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–2023	An evaluation is planned in 2024–25.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–2023	ISED engaged on an ongoing basis with the loan fund and knowledge hub recipients to facilitate the management of the funding agreements. ISED also engaged with a range of stakeholders on Black entrepreneurship organizations throughout the year in support of the Minister's stakeholder engagement.

Financial information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment	2020–21 Actual spending	2021–22 Actual spending	2022–23 Planned spending	2022–23 Total authorities available for use	2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used)	Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned)
Total grants	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total contributions	0	20,191,345	11,500,000	12,010,264	11,646,544	146,544
Total other types of transfer payments	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total program	0	20,191,345	11,500,000	12,010,264	11,646,544	146,544
Explanation of variances	N/A – Less than 10%

Canada Digital Adoption Program – Stream 1

Start date	March 3, 2022
End date	March 31, 2025
Type of transfer payment	Contribution – Stream 1
Type of appropriation	Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions	2021–22
Link to departmental result(s)	People and communities from all segments of Canadian society participate in the economy
Link to the department's Program Inventory	Support for Underrepresented Entrepreneurs
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program	Grow Your Business Online is designed to support up to 90,000 consumer-facing businesses across Canada digitize and take advantage of e-commerce opportunities.
Results achieved	In 2022-23, CDAP's Grow your Business Online stream disbursed over $32 million in grants to over 7,600 small businesses ($17.3 million) and in e-commerce advisor work placements for students and recent graduates ($14.8 million). Additionally, this stream received over 18,700 grant applications from Canadian small businesses. The program had a slower than anticipated start in 2022-23, however the program saw an upward trend in businesses supported as the program progressed. To better support Canadian small businesses and increase program uptake, the program has consulted with delivery partners and made modifications such as including non-employer businesses as eligible grant recipients halfway through 2022-23.
Findings of audits completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–2023	An evaluation is planned in 2024-25.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–2023	CDAP is expected to have a high level of visibility due to the size and scope of the program which were further heightened by through a national media campaign. CDAP also shared program marketing materials with internal and external stakeholder groups across Canada to help amplify the messaging and raise awareness of the program to increase uptake and drive of applications. ISED officials worked with all selected third-party service delivery partners to provide them with technical guidance in the management of the contribution agreements.

Financial information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment	2020–21 Actual spending	2021–22 Actual spending	2022–23 Planned spending	2022–23 Total authorities available for use	2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used)	Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned)
Total grants	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total contributions	0	1,149,364	111,003,433	111,003,433	51,056,120	(59,947,313)
Total other types of transfer payments	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total program	0	1,149,364	111,003,433	111,003,433	51,056,120	(59,947,313)
Explanation of variances	Variance primarily represents unused funding as a result of delay in overall launch of the program which required lengthy negotiations with many delivery partners across the country as well as a reasonable time to ramp up operations.

Canada Digital Adoption Program – Stream 2

Start date	January 5, 2022
End date	March 31, 2025
Type of transfer payment	Contribution and Grant – Boost your Business Technology
Type of appropriation	Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions	2024–25
Link to departmental result(s)	Canadian businesses and industries are innovative and growing People and communities from all segments of Canadian society participate in the economy
Link to the department's Program Inventory	Support for Underrepresented Entrepreneurs
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program	Canada Digital Adoption Program – Boost Your Business Technology Stream supports Canadian small and medium-sized enterprises who are looking to leverage new technology to improve productivity, increase efficiency and foster innovation. The program provides funding and expertise to businesses, as well as training and work placement opportunities for youth. Boost Your Business Technology offers support in the form of grants to help SMEs offset the cost of retaining a Digital Advisor who will develop a digital adoption plan tailored to the business. The grant will cover up to 90% of the cost to develop the digital plan, up to a maximum grant value of $15,000. To support the implementation of the plan, the SME will be able to apply for a zero-interest loan from the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) (up to $100,000) as well as a wage subsidy up to $7,300 for a youth placement.
Results achieved	The CDAP's Boost Your Business Technology Stream was launched in March 2022 and has now completed its first full year of operations. The program provided access to tools and information on the benefits of digital adoption to more than 20,000 SMEs through its interactive digital needs-assessment tool. More than 9,000 SMEs have signed grant agreements and have begun their digital adoption journey. The program has successfully disbursed over 3,300 grants to SMEs, representing $47.6 million to support the cost of developing their digital adoption plans. Thirty-five percent of SMEs who completed their Digital Adoptions plans moved on to seek additional support through BDC loans for digital implementation while more than 20% of eligible SMEs took steps to access the subsided youth work placement. In the program's first year, the BDC authorized over 1,100 loans totaling $65.5M. The program is receiving positive feedback through testimonials and client satisfaction ratings from businesses who have completed the Boost Your Business grant process.
Findings of audits completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–2023	An evaluation is planned in 2024-25.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–2023	The program launched a national awareness campaign in recognition of the importance of reaching broad audiences across Canada to maximize reach and impact. This resulted in 281 million views, and 1.1 million total ad link clicks led to nearly 500,000 website visits. CDAP participated in in-person events, to better leverage potential partnerships with key stakeholders and meet SMEs where they are. An estimated 100,000 businesses were reached through these activities, including SMEs majority owned by members of equity deserving groups. The outreach team also hosted more than 75 webinars presenting the program and answer questions to over 4,000 SMEs. The program has developed and shared custom marketing materials with internal and external stakeholder groups across Canada and have resources available for download online, all designed to help amplify messaging, raise awareness, and increase programs uptake. The program also conducted consultations with over 50 external stakeholders, including provincial peer programs, chambers of commerce, industry associations, and regional partners. The feedback received from participants confirmed that the program concept is valid and needed. The consultation also provided valuable insights, which led to program improvements to program procedures such as streamlining the registration process, resulting in improvements in program delivery.

Financial information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment	2020–21 Actual spending	2021–22 Actual spending	2022–23 Planned spending	2022–23 Total authorities available for use	2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used)	Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned)
Total grants	0	15,000	249,488,612	249,488,612	48,970,053	(200,518,559)
Total contributions	0	0	44,234,952	44,234,952	6,242,733	(37,992,219)
Total other types of transfer payments	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total program	0	15,000	293,723,564	293,723,564	55,212,785	(238,510,779)
Explanation of variances	Variance is the result of slower than anticipated program uptake. Unused funding will be moved to future years to align the funding profile with the program's anticipated cash flow requirements.

Canada Foundation for Innovation

Start date	July 2, 1997
End date	Ongoing
Type of transfer payment	Contribution
Type of appropriation	Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions	2021-2022
Link to departmental result(s)	Canadian science, technology and innovation (STIn) research contributes to knowledge transfer
Link to the department's Program Inventory	Science and Research
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program	The Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI) is a non-repayable recipient contribution program. Established by the federal government, its objective is to fund research infrastructure in order to help attract and retain talent, train researchers, support private-sector innovation and commercialization, and enable researchers to undertake world-class research. The only eligible recipient of this contribution is the CFI, an independent not-for-profit corporation. Ultimate recipients are universities, colleges, hospitals, and not-for-profit research organizations that are situated in Canada and are capable of carrying on meaningful research. Budget 2018 set aside $763M over five years for the CFI starting in 2018-19, and permanent funding at an ongoing level of $462M per year by 2023-2024. The maximum amount of contributions payable under this program will be the overall contributions approved through the Government of Canada budget decisions.
Results achieved	In 2022–23, 97% of the total available funding for the John R. Evans Leaders Fund was awarded. This was an increase from 56% in 2021-22. The CFI issued payments for 1,121 projects with the value of payments totalling to $387 million, up from $362 million in 2021-22. The number of new awards also increased from 444 in 2021-22 to 553 in 2022-23. 22% of total infrastructure project costs were leveraged from the private sector.
Findings of audits completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–2023	An evaluation is planned in 2024-25.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–2023	ISED maintains an ongoing dialogue with the CFI and reviews the Corporate Plan and Annual Report that the CFI submits each year to monitor progress towards the achievement of expected results and compliance with the terms and conditions of its contribution agreements. Government officials also attend CFI Board of Directors meetings as observers.

Financial information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment	2020–21 Actual spending	2021–22 Actual spending	2022–23 Planned spending	2022–23 Total authorities available for use	2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used)	Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned)
Total grants	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total contributions	324,000,000	339,050,000	623,309,615	599,909,615	443,750,000	(179,559,615)
Total other types of transfer payments	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total program	324,000,000	339,050,000	623,309,615	599,909,615	443,750,000	(179,559,615)
Explanation of variances	CFI received funding from successive federal budgets, for which the associated funding required a realignment with CFI's anticipated cashflow requirements. As such, the unused funding has been moved to future years.

Canada Foundation for Sustainable Development Technology

Start date	March 26, 2001
End date	2025-26
Type of transfer payment	Contribution
Type of appropriation	Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions	2027-2028
Link to departmental result(s)	Canada has a clean and sustainable economy
Link to the department's Program Inventory	Clean Technology and Clean Growth
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program	Sustainable Development Technology Canada (SDTC) is a single recipient non-repayable contribution program. The only eligible recipient is SDTC. It has the objective of operating the Sustainable Development (SD) Tech Fund to fund development and demonstration projects that address climate change, air quality, clean water air and clean soil. On average, SDTC typically funds approximately 33% of eligible project costs and can fund up to 50% of the total project costs. Funding is typically in the range of $50,000 to $20 10 million, with an increasing number of smaller investments of $50,000-$100,000 under SDTC's Seed Fund. Eligible ultimate recipients included are for-profit corporations, partnerships, limited partnerships and business trusts, not-for-profit corporations, educational or research institutions, and individuals, that have expertise in sustainable development technology that are part of a consortium with expertise in sustainable development technology, as well as not-for-profit corporations undertaking or funding the development or demonstration of sustainable development technology. The 2020 Fall Economic Statement, through Canada's Strengthened Climate Plan, provided funding of $750 million over five years (2026–27 to 2027-28). Prior to this investment, Budget 2017 provided funding of $400 million, which was allocated over three years (2018–19 to 2021–22).
Results achieved	SDTC continued to identify and support transformative Canadian companies in developing and deploying globally competitive clean technology solutions that address environmental challenges related to climate change, clean air, clean water, and clean soil. In 2022-23, SDTC invested $133 million in 115 new projects from across Canada. This included 46 start-up and scale-up projects and 69 firms through SDTC's Seed Fund. Additionally, 97% of active projects are making advancements towards successful demonstrations; 30% of firms approved for funding in 2022-23 are led by women; and an estimated 24.7 megatonnes of greenhouse gas emissions were reduced – more than the previous year. SDTC also continued to work with its regional and federal partners to strengthen and support the Canadian cleantech ecosystem. SDTC also managed the Next Generation Biofuels Fund, which supported the demonstration of next generation renewable fuel production facilities. While the program sunsets in 2017, SDTC continued to monitor recipients' progress and alignment with contribution requirements and provided an update to ISED in 2022-23 on the status of funded projects.
Findings of audits completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–2023	An evaluation of the Sustainable Development Technology Fund was completed in 2022–2023.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–2023	SDTC manages all engagement with applicants and recipients. As an organization, SDTC is focused on efficient operations to provide high quality support to new applicants and current portfolio companies. For 2022-23, the average time from initial application to contribution agreement signed for all contracts was 6.4 months, exceeding the target to maintain an average below 9 months. Additionally, 98% of recipients completed post-project questionnaires compared to a target of 60%. The organization has also been working with external partners such as the Council of Canadian Innovators on the Innovation Governance Program (iGP) to equip companies with the skills and resources they require as they scale-up globally and is continuing work with the Innovative Asset Collective (IAC) to strengthen support for companies to help strengthen their IP strategies.

Financial information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment	2020–21 Actual spending	2021–22 Actual spending	2022–23 Planned spending	2022–23 Total authorities available for use	2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used)	Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned)
Total grants	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total contributions	174,193,201	100,175,408	173,064,265	173,064,265	149,214,750	(23,849,515)
Total other types of transfer payments	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total program	174,193,201	100,175,408	173,064,265	173,064,265	149,214,750	(23,849,515)
Explanation of variances	Variance represents unused funding as a result of lingering effects of the pandemic. It has been moved to future years to reflect their financial forecasting model which was revised following a recent review of historical data and updated assumptions.

Canada Small Business Financing Program

Start date	1999
End date	Ongoing
Type of transfer payment	Other
Type of appropriation	Statutory – Canada Small Business Financing Act
Fiscal year for terms and conditions	Ongoing (Statutory program)
Link to departmental result(s)	Canadian businesses and industries are innovative and growing
Link to the department's Program Inventory	Support for Small Business
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program	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 have revenues of up to $10M per year. Under the program, financial institutions can make term loans to small businesses for real property, leasehold improvements equipment, intangible assets and start-up costs as well as line of credit loans for day-to-day working capital costs. In the event that a registered loan defaults, the government pays 85% of net eligible losses. The CSBFP is a national program that operates in all provinces and territories.
Results achieved	The CSBFP is market-driven, and variations in its use reflect levels of supply by lenders and demand from small businesses. In 2022–23, the CSBFP facilitated access to 5,533 loans worth $1.5 billion in financing to small businesses. Compared to the previous year, the number and value of loans increased by 11% and 21%, respectively. The increase in program utilization can be attributed to improved economic conditions and the easing of COVID-19 restrictions. To improve access to financing for Canadian small businesses, ISED finalized and implemented enhancements to the Canada Small Business Financing Program through regulatory amendments that were published in the Canada Gazette Part II in July 2022.
Findings of audits completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–2023	An evaluation is planned in 2024-25.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–2023	ISED continued to collaborate with lenders, other federal/provincial government departments, and business support organizations to improve their knowledge of the CSBFP.

Financial information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment	2020–21 Actual spending	2021–22 Actual spending	2022–23 Planned spending	2022–23 Total authorities available for use	2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used)	Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned)
Total grants	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total contributions	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total other types of transfer payments	86,108,346	82,146,609	134,271,103	60,369,610	60,369,610	(73,901,493)
Total program	86,108,346	82,146,609	134,271,103	60,369,610	60,369,610	(73,901,493)
Explanation of variances	The variance is primarily a result of an overestimation of the volume of claim payments for defaulted loans. With the economic downturn associated to the pandemic, claim for loss submissions resulting from defaulted loans were expected to increase significantly. These claims did not materialize to the extent predicted, resulting in lower than expected claim payment expenses for the year.

Canada's Advanced Research and Innovation Network (CANARIE Inc)

Start date	1993
End date	Ongoing
Type of transfer payment	Contribution
Type of appropriation	Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions	2014–15
Link to departmental result(s)	Canadian science, technology and innovation (STIn) research contributes to knowledge transfer
Link to the department's Program Inventory	Science and Research
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program	CANARIE is a non-repayable single recipient contribution program. Its objective is to provide ultra high-speed networking capability to enable researchers to exchange large volumes of data obtained through the use of high-performance computing resources. CANARIE also supports private firms in advancing innovation and commercialization through the use of network technologies. ISED contributed $105M (plus approximately $8M top up) to CANARIE from 2015–2020. ISED will be contributing $137M from 2020–2024. The contribution amount is required by CANARIE to ensure that it can complete its proposed activities.
Results achieved	In 2022–23, CANARIE 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. CANARIE expanded access and utilization of the CANARIE networks, increasing the effectiveness of its tools and programs, for the research and education community. CANARIE enabled the creation of innovative information and communication technology products and services and the acceleration of their commercialization in Canada.
Findings of audits completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–2023	An evaluation is planned in 2023–24.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–2023	ISED maintains ongoing dialogue with CANARIE and reviews the Annual Business Plan and Annual Report that CANARIE submits each year to monitor progress towards the achievement of expected results and compliance with the terms and conditions of the contribution agreement. A government official also attends CANARIE Board of Directors meetings as an observer.

Financial information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment	2020–21 Actual spending	2021–22 Actual spending	2022–23 Planned spending	2022–23 Total authorities available for use	2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used)	Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned)
Total grants	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total contributions	30,200,000	28,700,000	47,570,000	47,570,000	37,500,000	(10,070,000)
Total other types of transfer payments	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total program	30,200,000	28,700,000	47,570,000	47,570,000	37,500,000	(10,070,000)
Explanation of variances	Variance represents slower than expected expenditures across CANARIE's funding envelope as a result of persistent effects of the pandemic. Unused funding has been moved to 2023–24 to align the funding profile with the cashflow forecasts.

Canadian Institute for Advanced Research (CIFAR)

Start date	1986
End date	March 31, 2022 (CIFAR Core Budget 2017) and March 31, 2026 (CIFAR Core Budget 2021)
Type of transfer payment	Contribution
Type of appropriation	Statutory for CIFAR–Pan-Canadian Artificial Intelligence Strategy (PCAIS) Budget 2017; appropriated annually through Estimates for CIFAR–PCAIS Budget 2021
Fiscal year for terms and conditions	2021-2022
Link to departmental result(s)	Canadian science, technology and innovation (STIn) research contributes to knowledge transfer
Link to the department's Program Inventory	Science and Research
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program	This program provides non-repayable contributions to the Canadian Institute for Advanced Research, known as CIFAR. CIFAR is a not-for-profit corporation under the Canada Not-for-profit Corporations Act that supports the advancement of science through international and interdisciplinary collaboration and high-impact research to address emerging fields of discovery and advance thinking on future-focused questions across the sciences and humanities. Core funding to CIFAR is intended to advance interdisciplinary knowledge creation, support long-term growth of next-generation research leaders, and drive societal impact through knowledge mobilization.
Results achieved	In 2022-23, key achievements of the CIFAR-Core component of the program achieved the included the following: Hosted 27 program meetings and cross–programmatic events across 12 CIFAR research programs; Appointed 18 new CIFAR Azrieli Global Scholars; Engaged knowledge users over 8 virtual engagements and developing 13 sector–targeted publications; Awarded 44 CIFAR Catalyst Grants to support high–potential collaborative research; and Launched three new programs awarded though our third Global Call for Ideas, "The Future of Being Human".
Findings of audits completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–2023	An evaluation of ISED funding to CIFAR was completed in 2022–23. The evaluation found that CIFAR plays a niche and complementary role in the fundamental research ecosystem and the accomplishments and scientific achievements of CIFAR researchers have been recognized worldwide. An evaluation is planned in 2027-28. ISED evaluation reports can be found on ISED's website under Audits and Evaluations.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–2023	The department maintains ongoing dialogue with CIFAR and reviews corporate plans, quarterly and annual financial reports, and annual reports to monitor progress towards the achievement of expected results and compliance with the terms and conditions of the contribution agreements.

Financial information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment	2020–21 Actual spending	2021–22 Actual spending	2022–23 Planned spending	2022–23 Total authorities available for use	2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used)	Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned)
Total grants	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total contributions	28,562,554	34,749,032	23,237,350	23,237,350	20,537,869	(2,699,481)
Total other types of transfer payments	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total program	28,562,554	34,749,032	23,237,350	23,237,350	20,537,869	(2,699,481)
Explanation of variances	The variance is primarily related to the Canada CIFAR AI Chairs program for which funding was not disbursed as anticipated due to numerous factors including pace of recruitment and appointment. Unused funding will be moved to future years to align with planned disbursement needs.

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

Start date	2017
End date	March 31, 2031
Type of transfer payment	Contribution
Type of appropriation	Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions	2021–2022
Link to departmental result(s)	Canadian science, technology and innovation (STIn) research contributes to knowledge transfer
Link to the department's Program Inventory	Science and Research
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program	This program provides non-repayable contributions CIFAR. CIFAR receives funding to advance the Pan-Canadian Artificial Intelligence Strategy by supporting activities to retain and attract top academic talent in artificial intelligence (AI); increase the number of post-graduate trainees and researchers studying in AI; promote collaboration among Canada's main centres of expertise in AI in Montreal, Toronto-Waterloo, and Edmonton, advance understanding of the ethical, legal, political, and societal implications of AI, as well as positioning Canada as a world-leading destination for companies seeking to invest in AI and innovation.
Results achieved	In 2022–-23, CIFAR continued to implement the Canada-CIFAR Artificial Intelligence (CCAI) Chairs program, a nationwide initiative that provides dedicated support to recruit and retain top artificial intelligence (AI) researchers at Canadian universities. The program has enriched Canada's AI talent pool by appointing more than 120 CCAI Chairs, who are training more than 1,600 graduate students, the next leaders in AI. Canada's AI talent pool is strong in terms of both quantity (3rd largest pool of top-tier AI researchers of any country) and quality (a full 10% of the most elite AI researchers are in Canada, 2nd only to the US). Moreover, CIFAR also continued to promote a strong national ecosystem of AI research and training via support for Canada's leading centres of AI excellence at the National Artificial Intelligence Institutes: Amii (Edmonton), Mila (Montréal), and the Vector Institute (Toronto and Waterloo). These institutes host CCAI Chairs and act as central hubs of researchers, students, and companies at the heart of Canada's leading AI ecosystems. Through their networks of research chairs, they connect postsecondary institutions from coast to coast. CIFAR, Amii, Mila and the Vector Institute had formal partnerships with 277 distinct companies in 2021-22, with the majority (60%) being small and medium-sized Canadian firms; the remainder were with large Canadian (20%) or multinational firms (20%).
Findings of audits completed in 2022–2023	An audit is planned for 2024–2025.
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–2023	An Evaluation of ISED funding to CIFAR, which included contributions under the Pan-Canadian Artificial Intelligence Strategy, was completed in 2022–23. An evaluation of the Pan-Canadian Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2.0 is planned in 2025–26 and an evaluation of CIFAR, which includes contributions under the Pan-Canadian Artificial Intelligence Strategy, is planned in 2027–28. ISED evaluation reports can be found on ISED's website underAudits and Evaluations.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–2023	The department maintains ongoing dialogue with CIFAR and reviews corporate plans, quarterly and annual financial reports, and annual reports to monitor progress towards the achievement of expected results and compliance with the terms and conditions of the contribution agreements.

Financial information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment	2020–21 Actual spending	2021–22 Actual spending	2022–23 Planned spending	2022–23 Total authorities available for use	2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used)	Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned)
Total grants	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total contributions	0	0	13,600,000	13,600,000	10,031,302	(3,568,698)
Total other types of transfer payments	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total program	0	0	13,600,000	13,600,000	10,031,302	(3,568,698)
Explanation of variances	Variance represents funding that was moved to future years following the recognition of the initiative's complexity, through considerable planning, consultation, and due diligence.

CanCode

Start date	June 1, 2017
End date	March 31, 2024
Type of transfer payment	Contribution
Type of appropriation	Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions	2018-19
Link to departmental result(s)	Canadian businesses and industries are innovative and growing
Link to the department's Program Inventory	Talent Development
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program	CanCode 3.0 is a non-repayable contribution program. It has the objective of delivering new or expanded digital skills and coding initiatives for youth to prepare them for participation in the digital economy, and for teachers to increase their comfort level in introducing coding concepts into the classroom. Students will learn digital skills, including coding, web development and data analytics.
Results achieved	As of March 31, 2023, CanCode 3.0 has supported 2,756,271 training opportunities to K-12 students, as well as 134,615 training and professional development opportunities to teachers. The program is on track to meet its targets, fully expecting to provide 3 million students with coding and digital skills learning opportunities with at least 50% female participants, 7% indigenous and 17% youth located in rural remote and Northern communities. The program has surpassed its target of 120,000 training opportunities to teachers, to equip them with the skills needed to continue teaching digital skills going forward.
Findings of audits completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–2023	An evaluation is planned in 2023 –24.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–2023	Recipients are engaged through regular outreach on project development and quarterly monitoring and reporting of projects. Based on ongoing feedback received from recipients during these engagement processes, program procedures are adapted, resulting in improved program delivery and more streamlined claim and risk analysis processes.

Financial information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment	2020–21 Actual spending	2021–22 Actual spending	2022–23 Planned spending	2022–23 Total authorities available for use	2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used)	Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned)
Total grants	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total contributions	27,908,236	4,119,818	25,856,509	36,814,579	35,243,628	9,387,119
Total other types of transfer payments	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total program	27,908,236	4,119,818	25,856,509	36,814,579	35,243,628	9,387,119
Explanation of variances	Variance reflects additional funding accessed in-year. The unused portion represents funding for one recipient ceasing operations, and another facing capacity issues. It will be moved to 2023 –24 to ensure that existing recipients can fulfill their obligations.

Connect to Innovate Program

Start date	December 15, 2016
End date	March 31, 2024
Type of transfer payment	Contribution
Type of appropriation	Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions	2016-17
Link to departmental result(s)	People and communities from all segments of Canadian society participate in the economy
Link to the department's Program Inventory	Bridging Digital Divides
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program	Connect to Innovate (CTI) is a $500M program announced in Budget 2016 that aims to bring high-speed Internet to rural and remote communities across Canada by extending and enhancing high-capacity backbone infrastructure as well as to funding some last-mile infrastructure for underserved households, institutions and businesses. Budget 2019 announced an $85M top-up to the program, as part of new investments to deliver high-speed Internet to every Canadian home and business.
Results achieved	All funding has been awarded to approved CTI projects and they continue to roll-out across the country.. As of March 31, 2023, 227,550 households in 946 communities have improved Internet speeds, including 116 Indigenous communities. As well, 731 anchor institutions like hospitals and schools now have improved Internet speeds. By the end of the program, CTI will bring new or improved high-speed Internet access to more than 975 rural and remote communities – more than triple the 300 communities initially targeted – which includes 190 Indigenous communities. The program, originally set to close in March 2023, is extended until March 2024 as some projects experienced delays due to supply chain and labour issues as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Findings of audits completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–2023	Engagement activities include: regular outreach with applicants on project development; coordination with provincial/territorial and First Nations groups, partners and other government departments and agencies to leverage funding available for broadband; a website with an interactive mapping tool; sustained social media presence; and ongoing interaction and monitoring of project recipients. In November 2020, a new CTI tracker was published online in order to increase accountability to Canadians and to allow them to track the progress of the projects in their area. The tracker reports on which stage a project is in and when service can be expected.

Financial information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment	2020–21 Actual spending	2021–22 Actual spending	2022–23 Planned spending	2022–23 Total authorities available for use	2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used)	Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned)
Total grants	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total contributions	106,700,962	140,189,101	132,426,029	98,541,044	60,276,778	(72,149,251)
Total other types of transfer payments	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total program	106,700,962	140,189,101	132,426,029	98,541,044	60,276,778	(72,149,251)
Explanation of variances	Variance represents unused funding as a result of project delays experienced by the recipients with signed contribution agreements in place. Contributing factors include lingering supply chain disruptions as a result of the pandemic, skilled labour shortages, and extreme weather events such as flooding and forest fires causing damage to existing infrastructure. Unused funding will be moved to 2024-25 to respect existing contribution agreements.

Digital Research Infrastructure

Start date	March 21, 2019
End date	Ongoing
Type of transfer payment	Contribution
Type of appropriation	Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions	2018-19
Link to departmental result(s)	Canadian science, technology and innovation (STIn) research contributes to knowledge transfer
Link to the department's Program Inventory	Science and Research
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program	The Digital Research Infrastructure (DRI) Contribution Program is a non-repayable single recipient contribution program. Its objective is to provide funding for Advanced Research Computing (ARC), Research Software (RS), and Data Management (DM), to support the work of Canadian researchers and scientists. The eligible recipient is the Digital Research Alliance of Canada (DRAC) (formerly New Digital Research Infrastructure Organization (NDRIO)), a not-for-profit organization federally incorporated under the Canada Not-for-Profit Corporations Act. This recipient will implement a national strategy for ARC, RS, and DM. The maximum contribution payable under this program will be the overall contribution approved through Government of Canada budget decisions. Under the DRI Strategy, the ARC Expansion Program sought to immediately increase ARC resources across Canada's five national ARC host sites to meet the computing needs and requirements of researchers across the country. ARC is a non-repayable contribution program. The eligible recipients are five national ARCsites (University of Victoria, Simon Fraser University, the University of Waterloo, the University of McGill and the University of Toronto). The Minister may enter into contributions up to a maximum amount of $50M. The maximum contribution payable under this program will be $60M. The ARC Expansion Program is set to wind down in 2022–2023.
Results achieved	In 2022–2023, ISED/SRS continued to implement the Digital Research Infrastructure (DRI) Strategy to provide Canadian researchers, scientists and scholars with the digital tools and services they need to conduct world-leading research. ISED/SRS continued to monitor and support DRAC as they: Increase technological capacity in the DRI ecosystem across Advanced Research Computing (ARC), Research Software (RS), and Data Management (DM); Improve the skills and training provided to Canada's researchers; Safeguard DRI resources. In addition, specific DRAC activities in 2022–2023 included: Support of a number of data management projects, including the Federated Research Data Repository (FRDR) Sensitive Data Repository Pilot which will provide a robust and secure Canadian repository to support the needs of researchers generating or working with sensitive data (e.g., health researchers); Investment in additional high-performance computing, cloud computing, and storage resources, and developed a sustainable plan for its maintenance and continual renewal; Working to improve the alignment and integration of practices, standards and policies, in collaboration with Tri-Council, and other national and provincial research funders; and, Launching and conducting several stakeholder engagements to help support the transition of Canada's digital research infrastructure platform. These resulted in the publication of the Researcher Needs Assessment Summary and the Strategic Plan that will guide the Alliance's activities for the next three-five years.
Findings of audits completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–2023	An evaluation is planned in 2023-24.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in v	ISED maintains ongoing dialogue with NDRIO and reviews the Annual Corporate Plan and Annual Report that NDRIO submits each year to monitor progress towards the achievement of expected results and compliance with the terms and conditions of the contribution agreement. A government official also attends NDRIO Board of Directors meetings as an observer. Through the ARC Expansion Program, ISED receives and reviews progress reports and financial reports on a quarterly basis and regularly engages with the national hosts sites, Compute Canada and Compute Canada Federation to ensure the goals of the DRI Strategy are supported and achieved.

Financial information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment	2020–21 Actual spending	2021–22 Actual spending	2022–23 Planned spending	2022–23 Total authorities available for use	2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used)	Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned)
Total grants	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total contributions	17,955,148	25,617,073	226,887,005	226,887,005	34,340,809	(192,546,196)
Total other types of transfer payments	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total program	17,955,148	25,617,073	226,887,005	226,887,005	34,340,809	(192,546,196)
Explanation of variances	The variance represents unused funding by the Digital Research Alliance recipient, which needed additional time to develop critical documents such as the National Service Delivery Model and the Funding Model, required to support the implementation of major projects. Unused funding has been moved to future years.

Digital Skills for Youth

Start date	December 11, 2017
End date	March 31, 2025
Type of transfer payment	Contribution
Type of appropriation	Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions	2020-2021
Link to departmental result(s)	Canadian businesses and industries are innovative and growing
Link to the department's Program Inventory	Talent Development
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program	Digital Skills for Youth (DS4Y) is part of the Government of Canada's Youth Employment and Skills Strategy (YESS), intended to support recent and 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 they can succeed in the digital economy.
Results achieved	The program exceeded its target with a total of 468 youth participating in the program this year.. Of the 468 youth, 52% were females, 43% were visible minorities, 6% were Indigenous, and 6% had disabilities—exceeding the program's target. The program was extended by a year and received an additional $10.8M, enabling the delivery of 374 internships.
Findings of audits completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–2023	An evaluation is planned in 2024-25 (led by Employment and Social Development Canada under the Youth Employment and Skills Strategy).
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–2023	Recipients are engaged through regular outreach on project development and quarterly monitoring and reporting of projects. Based on ongoing feedback received from recipients during these engagement processes, program procedures are adapted, resulting in improved program delivery and more streamlined claim and risk analysis processes.

Financial information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment	2020–21 Actual spending	2021–22 Actual spending	2022–23 Planned spending	2022–23 Total authorities available for use	2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used)	Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned)
Total grants	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total contributions	36,086,415	64,218,441	10,800,000	11,220,983	11,220,982	420,982
Total other types of transfer payments	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total program	36,086,415	64,218,441	10,800,000	11,220,983	11,220,982	420,982
Explanation of variances	N/A – less than 10%

Diverse and Inclusive Economy Program

Start date	April 2021
End date	March 31, 2024
Type of transfer payment	Contribution
Type of appropriation	Annually through estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions	2021-2022
Link to departmental result(s)	People and communities from all segments of Canadian society participate in the economy
Link to the department's Program Inventory	Support for Underrepresented Entrepreneurs
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program	The 50 – 30 Challenge Ecosystem Fund provides funding to successful organizations, known as Ecosystem partners, to help 50 – 30 Challenge participants meet the diversity and inclusion goals. The Ecosystem partners support participants by linking them to best practices and tools, providing guidance and advising on other diversity supports specific to each organization's unique needs. The Ecosystem partners also promote the What Works Toolkit, and report on the progress of 50 – 30 participants to Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada. Ecosystem partners are awarded a three year, non-repayable Contribution Agreement with a minimum value of $3M and a maximum value of $10M.
Results achieved	As of June 21, 2023, 2,138 participating organizations of all sizes have signed on to the 50 – 30 Challenge. The What Works Toolkit, launched in September 2022, is an online resource designed to support Canadian organizations looking to adopt or enhance their equity and diversity practices. Each tool offers concrete actions to help organizations set out policies and approaches for recruitment, mentoring, promoting, and retaining board members and employees. Five Ecosystem Partners were selected through the 50 – 30 Challenge Ecosystem Fund to support Challenge participants by linking them to best practices and tools, and providing guidance and supports specific to each organization's unique needs. The Ecosystem Partners who received funding to deliver support are: Colleges and Institutes Canada ($10 million); Diversity Institute ($8,052,129); Egale Canada($3,618,306); Women's Economic Council($3,582,634) and; Global Compact Network Canada($3,246,931). The Diversity Institute was selected to develop first and third-party assessments for the 50 – 30 Challenge. These guidelines will help organizations measure their success in meeting the objectives of the Challenge.
Findings of audits completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–2023	ISED sends a monthly newsletter to all 50 – 30 Challenge participants. In addition, ISED coordinates meetings among Ecosystem partners and other key contributors to the 50 – 30 Challenge.

Financial information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment	2020–21 Actual spending	2021–22 Actual spending	2022–23 Planned spending	2022–23 Total authorities available for use	2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used)	Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned)
Total grants	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total contributions	0	1,181,255	9,494,000	12,243,373	7,718,432	(1,775,568)
Total other types of transfer payments	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total program	0	1,181,255	9,494,000	12,243,373	7,718,432	(1,775,568)
Explanation of variances	Variance is due to unused funding, which will be moved to future years, as a result of longer than anticipated program implementation by the recipients.

Futurpreneur Canada

Start date	April 1, 2017
End date	March 31, 2024
Type of transfer payment	Contribution
Type of appropriation	Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions	2020-2021
Link to departmental result(s)	People and communities from all segments of Canadian society participate in the economy
Link to the department's Program Inventory	Support for Underrepresented Entrepreneurs
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program	Futurpreneur Canada (FC) supports young Canadian entrepreneurs aged 18–39 who would not typically be supported by traditional lending institutions. Futurpreneur provides loans of up to $20,000 and up to two years of mandatory mentoring. Futurpreneur also provides business-planning support.
Results achieved	In 2022–2023, Futurpreneur supported 883 diverse, young entrepreneurs in starting and growing their businesses. The total number of entrepreneurs accessing mentorship was 1,149, surpassing its goal to support at least 1,000 young entrepreneurs through non-financial services. FC has an increased focus on equity-deserving groups, and in 2022–2023, 44% of supported businesses were women-led, 22% had Black founders, and 4% had Indigenous founders.
Findings of audits completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–2023	An evaluation is planned in 2023 –24.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–2023	ISED engaged regularly with Futurpreneur Canada on the management of this contribution agreement. ISED referred youth seeking support entrepreneurship support services to the organization given its reach across the country.

Financial information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment	2020–21 Actual spending	2021–22 Actual spending	2022–23 Planned spending	2022–23 Total authorities available for use	2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used)	Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned)
Total grants	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total contributions	27,775,000	7,675,000	7,675,000	7,675,000	7,675,000	0
Total other types of transfer payments	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total program	27,775,000	7,675,000	7,675,000	7,675,000	7,675,000	0
Explanation of variances	N/A – Less than 10%

Genome Canada

Start date	March 27, 2000
End date	March 31, 2027
Type of transfer payment	Contribution
Type of appropriation	Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions	2021–22
Link to departmental result(s)	Canadian science, technology and innovation (STIn) research contributes to knowledge transfer
Link to the department's Program Inventory	Science and Research
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program	Genome Canada is a non-repayable single recipient contribution program, under which Genome Canada is the only recipient. Genome Canada is a not-for-profit organization created in 2000 that supports six independently incorporated regional Genome Centres, located in British Columbia, Alberta, the Prairies, Ontario, Quebec and Atlantic Canada. With the Genome Centres and other partners, including a number of provincial governments and the private sector, Genome Canada invests in and manages large-scale genomics research projects, technology platforms, and the translation of new discoveries into application at Canadian post-secondary institutions, research hospitals and not-for-profit research institutions. Budget 2019 provided $100.5M over five years starting in 2020–21, and Budget 2021 provided $136.7M over five years beginning in 2022–23.
Results achieved	In 2022–23, Genome Canada invested $46.3M to fund 175 genomics projects focused on pandemic responses, climate-smart agriculture, and collaborative genomic surveillance. This funding also helped create 12 new companies, supported 2,510 research team members and 885 trainees as well as led to 4 licenses, patents and inventions. As of June 2023, Genome Canada has also facilitated the sequencing of more than 500,000 viral genomes such as SARS-CoV-2.
Findings of audits completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–2023	An evaluation is planned in 2025–26.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–2023	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. An ISED official attends the quarterly Genome Canada Board of Directors meetings as an observer.

Financial information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment	2020–21 Actual spending	2021–22 Actual spending	2022–23 Planned spending	2022–23 Total authorities available for use	2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used)	Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned)
Total grants	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total contributions	95,440,000	61,410,000	79,300,000	79,300,000	79,300,000	0
Total other types of transfer payments	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total program	95,440,000	61,410,000	79,300,000	79,300,000	79,300,000	0
Explanation of variances	N/A – Less than 10%

Global Innovation Clusters (formerly known as Innovation Superclusters Initiative)

Start date	May 24, 2017
End date	March 31, 2028
Type of transfer payment	Contribution
Type of appropriation	Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions	2017-18
Link to departmental result(s)	Canadian businesses and industries are innovative and growing
Link to the department's Program Inventory	Business Innovation
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program	The Global Innovation Clusters (GIC) is a non-repayable contribution program. Its objective is to support the acceleration of world-leading innovation clusters in Canada that translate the country's strengths into new commercial opportunities for Canadian firms. There are five Eligible recipients that are industry-led, incorporated not-for-profit organisations in the following sectors: Digital Technology, Protein Industries, Scale AI, Advanced Manufacturing, Oceans. The Global Innovation Clusters Program is investing nearly $2 billion over ten years. This includes $950 million announced in Budget 2017, an additional $60 million announced in Budget 2021 of which $20 million each was allocated to the Digital Technology, Protein Industries and Advanced Manufacturing clusters, and the most recent $750 million announced in Budget 2022.
Results achieved	As of March 31, 2023, the Global Innovation Clusters have approved more than 500 collaborative projects involving more than 2,500 participating partners across all five clusters. More than 78% percent of business partners are small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and the program is exceeding the target of 1:1.2 for total funds leveraged from partners for every dollar of program funding allocated by the end of the program. The total co-investment of over $2.37 billion includes more than $1.49 billion from industry and other partners, and over $885 million in program funding. In addition to creating thousands of high quality jobs, each Cluster has strong measures in place to support intellectual property (IP) value creation and maximization of benefits for Canada and Canadians. The program's approach to IP ensures that it is managed to maximize accessibility for members, foster innovation, and support good commercial outcomes. Each Cluster is required to employ a Senior Official responsible for IP, who plays a strategic role in ensuring that project participants understand their IP and receive first hand advice on its use. The Cluster is also required to develop both an IP Strategy which covers the entity's overall approach to IP, and a registry of IP from funded partners that is accessible to their members. This IP registry encourages follow-on investments and further stimulates the discoverability of the IP which have arisen from Cluster-funded projects. Project partners are supported in developing an IP commercialization plan at the outset of each project which establishes clear and transparent expectations for collaboration and future ownership of IP. In addition, Clusters deliver educational IP engagements as a part of their ecosystem building efforts, helping SMEs to strategically identify and manage their IP throughout project lifecycles.
Findings of audits completed in 2022–2023	An Audit of the Innovation Superclusters Initiative was conducted in 2022–23. The report is available on the ISED Canada website:
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–2023	An evaluation is planned in 2026 – 27.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in v	The Clusters have generated support from industry by engaging more than 7,500 members across all five Clusters, with a strong representation of SMEs and post-secondary institutions. The Clusters engage their members through multiple events, including project calls for proposals, collaboration sessions to bring together companies in key areas as potential project partners, training, etc. For example, the Clusters hosted IP workshops to help SMEs learn how to benefit from their IP, with nearly 1,100 participants.

Financial information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment	2020–21 Actual spending	2021–22 Actual spending	2022–23 Planned spending	2022–23 Total authorities available for use	2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used)	Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned)
Total grants	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total contributions	232,749,527	228,235,499	318,844,198	318,719,198	164,044,856	(154,799,342)
Total other types of transfer payments	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total program	232,749,527	228,235,499	318,844,198	318,719,198	164,044,856	(154,799,342)
Explanation of variances	Variance primarily represents unused funding as a result of environmental factors such as ongoing supply chain disruptions causing delays by recipients in executing contracted projects. Unused funding will be moved to future years to allow the program to complete contracted projects.

Institute for Quantum Computing

Start date	April 1, 2014
End date	March 31, 2024
Type of transfer payment	Contribution
Type of appropriation	Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions	2021–22
Link to departmental result(s)	Canadian science, technology and innovation (STIn) research contributes to knowledge transfer
Link to the department's Program Inventory	Science and Research
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program	The Institute for Quantum Computing (IQC) is a cross-disciplinary institute, based at the University of Waterloo, that specializes in quantum information science (QIS) and quantum technologies. Its mandate is to engage in quantum research, training, educational outreach, and device fabrication, with the aim of positioning Canada as a global leader in quantum.
Results achieved	In 2022–23, the IQC published 162 articles in prominent journals and received 95 academic visitors from 73 unique organizations. It also hosted seven workshops, 78 seminars, and 10 colloquia. It engaged over 9,000 Canadians through exhibitions, science fairs, lab tours, and public lectures. Additionally, the IQC sponsored 11 external scientific programs and welcomed a new full-time faculty member. In 2022–23, the IQC expanded its training program with the enrolment of 52 graduate students and 15 post-doctoral researchers. The program is currently training 207 graduate students (88 masters, 199 doctoral) and 55 post-doctoral researchers.
Findings of audits completed in 2022–2023	An audit is planned for 2025–26.
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–2023	An evaluation is planned in 2025–26.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–2023	The department maintains ongoing dialogue with the IQC and reviews the Corporate Plan and Annual Report that the IQC submits each year to monitor progress towards the achievement of expected results and compliance with the terms and conditions of the funding agreement.

Financial information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment	2020–21 Actual spending	2021–22 Actual spending	2022–23 Planned spending	2022–23 Total authorities available for use	2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used)	Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned)
Total grants	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total contributions	5,000,000	5,000,000	5,000,000	5,000,000	5,000,000	0
Total other types of transfer payments	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total program	5,000,000	5,000,000	5,000,000	5,000,000	5,000,000	0
Explanation of variances	N/A – Less than 10%

Let's Talk Science

Start date	April 1, 2015
End date	March 31, 2022
Type of transfer payment	Contribution
Type of appropriation	Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions	2020-2021
Link to departmental result(s)	Canadian businesses and industries are innovative and growing
Link to the department's Program Inventory	Talent Development
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program	Let's Talk Science (LTS) is a national, not-for-profit and charitable organization that offers programs, services and resources to help promote youth engagement in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM).
Results achieved	LTS' fiscal year is from September 1 – August 31, and the program reports on its indicators through its annual report provided in December. LTS achieved the following key results in 2021-22: Supported 2,081,844 total youth interactions, including underrepresented groups (across LTS program groups); Reported that 81% of youth participants indicated an increased interest in STEM; Reported that 64% of youth participants considered a career in STEM; Engaged with 5,874 schools and organizations at least one time; Supported 10,377 educator participant interactions in LTS professional learning initiatives; Reported that 75% of educators indicated improved capacity to support youth in STEM; Supported 1,744 postsecondary volunteer participant interactions in LTS professional development initiatives; and, Reported that 87% of volunteers participants indicated improved skill development for careers (e.g., communications, planning and leadership skills).
Findings of audits completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–2023	An evaluation is planned in 2026 –27.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–2023	The department maintains an ongoing dialogue and reviews the Corporate Plan and Annual Report submitted each year to track progress towards the achievement of expected results and compliance with the terms and conditions of the contribution agreement.

Financial information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment	2020–21 Actual spending	2021–22 Actual spending	2022–23 Planned spending	2022–23 Total authorities available for use	2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used)	Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned)
Total grants	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total contributions	5,000,000	5,000,000	5,000,000	5,000,000	5,000,000	0
Total other types of transfer payments	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total program	5,000,000	5,000,000	5,000,000	5,000,000	5,000,000	0
Explanation of variances	N/A – Less than 10%

Mitacs Inc.

Start date	April 1, 2012
End date	March 31, 2026
Type of transfer payment	Contribution
Type of appropriation	Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions	2021–22
Link to departmental result(s)	Canadian businesses and industries are innovative and growing
Link to the department's Program Inventory	Talent Development
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program	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. This is done by providing postsecondary students and postdoctoral fellows with work-integrated learning opportunities to develop their professional skills and apply their expertise to business-related research challenges. Mitacs also provides entrepreneurs opportunities to connect with potential international clients and investors through internships in post-secondary-linked incubators operating in partner countries.
Results achieved	Through its various program streams, Mitacs supported a total of 21,431 work-integrated learning placements in 2022–23 in both the for-profit and not-for-profit sectors. This included domestic and international placements for post-secondary students (i.e., undergraduate and graduate) and post-doctoral fellows from post-secondary institutions across Canada. Mitacs also trained 9,880 interns and collaborated with 4,785 professors (42% new) and 3,471 (50% new) organizations. Improvements in the professional and technical skills of interns has resulted in 84% of interns expressing a favourable outlook in their career progression. The success of these partnerships is also reflected in 73% of partner organizations planning to increase their overall investment in R&D as well as 91% of Mitacs professors indicating their willingness to collaborate across sectors and international partners in the future. Lastly, almost 82% of former Mitacs interns are currently working in Canada after graduation and 76% of former interns who were international students have remained and continue to work in Canada.
Findings of audits completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–2023	An evaluation of Mitacs was completed in 2022 –23. An evaluation is planned in 2027 –28.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–2023	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 funding agreements. An ISED official attends Mitacs Board of Directors meetings as an observer.

Financial information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment	2020–21 Actual spending	2021–22 Actual spending	2022–23 Planned spending	2022–23 Total authorities available for use	2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used)	Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned)
Total grants	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total contributions	119,000,000	103,380,038	177,500,000	200,900,000	195,085,294	17,585,294
Total other types of transfer payments	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total program	119,000,000	103,380,038	77,500,000	200,900,000	195,085,294	17,585,294
Explanation of variances	The variance represents additional funding received from existing reference levels to resume operations post-pandemic. The unused portion will be moved to future years to allow the program to meet the target number of quantum internships.

National Artificial Intelligence Institutes

Start date	April 19, 2021
End date	March 31, 2026
Type of transfer payment	Contribution
Type of appropriation	Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions	2021–22
Link to departmental result(s)	Canadian science, technology and innovation (STIn) research contributes to knowledge transfer
Link to the department's Program Inventory	Science and Research
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program	Contributions to the National Artificial Intelligence Institutes is a named recipient, non-repayable contribution program. An initiative of the Pan-Canadian Artificial Intelligence Strategy (PCAIS), the program's objectives are to: accelerate the translation of artificial intelligence research into commercial or other innovations; grow the capacity of Canadian businesses, not-for-profit organizations, health providers including hospitals, or other public corporations and agencies to develop, adopt, use, or commercialize artificial intelligence; and, encourage the responsible development and use of artificial intelligence based in human rights, inclusion, diversity, innovation and economic growth. There are three eligible recipients of funds under the program: Amii in Edmonton, Alberta; Mila in Montreal, Quebec; and the Vector Institute in Toronto, Ontario. Each recipient is a not-for-profit corporation under the Canada Not-for-profit Corporations Act that supports the advancement of artificial intelligence research, training, and innovation.
Results achieved	In 2022-2023, the National Artificial Intelligence Institutes held engagements (e.g., workshops, training sessions, and applied projects) that grew the capacity of businesses and not-for-profit and for-profit organizations partners to help those organizations upskill and grow their capacity to develop, adopt, use, or commercialize artificial intelligence, through a combined total of 448 engagement sessions: 435 organizations participating in institute-offered engagements;, comprised of a mix of small, medium, and large enterprises in both the for-profit and not-for-profit sectors; and Over 9,000 individuals participating in institute-offered training.
Findings of audits completed in 2022–2023	An audit is planned for 2025–2026.
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–2023	An evaluation of the Pan-Canadian Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2.0 is planned for 2025–26.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–2023	The department maintains ongoing dialogue with recipients and reviews corporate plans, financial reports, and annual reports to monitor progress towards the achievement of expected results and compliance with the terms and conditions of contribution agreements

Financial information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment	2020–21 Actual spending	2021–22 Actual spending	2022–23 Planned spending	2022–23 Total authorities available for use	2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used)	Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned)
Total grants	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total contributions	0	5,700,657	11,000,000	11,429,412	11,429,412	429,412
Total other types of transfer payments	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total program	0	5,700,657	11,000,000	11,429,412	11,429,412	429,412
Explanation of variances	N/A – Less than 10%

Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics

Start date	April 1, 2007
End date	July 31, 2024
Type of transfer payment	Contribution
Type of appropriation	Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions	2021–22
Link to departmental result(s)	Canadian science, technology and innovation (STIn) research contributes to knowledge transfer
Link to the department's Program Inventory	Science and Research
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program	This single-recipient contribution program provides non-repayable contributions to the Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics (Perimeter Institute). The institute is an independent, not-for-profit, research institute devoted to foundational issues in theoretical physics. Its mandate is to create and sustain a world leading centre for research, graduate training, and educational outreach in theoretical physics.
Results achieved	In 2022-23, the Perimeter Institute achieved the following: Trained 25 master's students in the Perimeter Scholars International program; Trained 68 PhD students and 91 postdocs, including 34 postdocs newly arrived so far in 2022/23; Total number of conferences for 2022/23 is 16, with 1,046 in-person participants and 783 online; Total number of seminars and colloquia for 2022/23 is 357, with approximately 3,700 participants; Garnered more than 1,200,000 YouTube views from Aug. 1, 2022 to July 31, 2023, including more than 120,000 views from within Canada. Since inception, Perimeter YouTube videos have been viewed more than 21 million times, including over 1.8 million views from within Canada. The channel has reached 149,000 subscribers; and, Quantum 101 – a 10-part series that explores quantum science in approachable lessons – is actively being distributed with 6 Episodes published to date. The series has amassed over 100,000 views across the current episodes and will be a long-term asset for quantum education.
Findings of audits completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–2023	An evaluation is planned in 2025–26.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in v	The department 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.

Financial information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment	2020–21 Actual spending	2021–22 Actual spending	2022–23 Planned spending	2022–23 Total authorities available for use	2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used)	Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned)
Total grants	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total contributions	10,000,000	10,000,000	10,000,000	10,000,000	10,000,000	0
Total other types of transfer payments	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total program	10,000,000	10,000,000	10,000,000	10,000,000	10,000,000	0
Explanation of variances	N/A – Less than 10%

Small Business and Entrepreneurship Development Program – General Fund

Start date	2021-22
End date	2025–26
Type of transfer payment	Non-repayable contributions
Type of appropriation	Appropriated annually through the Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions	2021–22
Link to departmental result(s)	People and communities from all segments from Canadian society participate in the economy
Link to the department's Program Inventory	Support for Underrepresented Entrepreneurs
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program	The SBEDP aims to break down barriers for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across Canada, particularly equity deserving groups, to start, maintain, and grow a business, by providing targeted support to enhance overall sustainability, and drive growth, competitiveness, innovation, and productivity toward broader economic and social benefits. Initiatives under the SBEDP will align to one or more of the following objectives: Strengthen Canada's entrepreneurship ecosystem to be more accessible for small businesses and entrepreneurs, including those owned by equity deserving groups; Increase opportunities for SMEs to start, scale, grow, and maintain a business and/or adjust to new economic realities; and, Build awareness of issues faced by entrepreneurs, particularly equity deserving groups, to improve coordination of supports and close gaps in service. Assistance for the SBEDP will be in the form of non-repayable contributions.
Results achieved	In 2022–23 SBEDP provided approximately $9M in funding to 3 recipients: the Federation of African Canadian Economics (FACE), the Canadian Chamber of Commerce (CCC), and the Trade Accelerator Program (TAP). In 2022–23, TAP graduated 287 SMEs and referred nearly 200 SMEs to export support services. Funding for FACE and CCC contributed to the program objectives of strengthening the entrepreneurship ecosystem and improving coordination of supports. Officials continue to work with various groups to co-develop projects under the program.
Findings of audits completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–2023	An evaluation is planned in 2025–26.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–2023	ISED engages with applicants of the program to determine feasibility of projects submitted for funding and/or to monitor progress of funded projects.

Financial information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment	2020–21 Actual spending	2021–22 Actual spending	2022–23 Planned spending	2022–23 Total authorities available for use	2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used)	Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned)
Total grants	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total contributions	0	200,000	24,992,600	28,232,000	9,101,674	(15,890,926)
Total other types of transfer payments	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total program	0	200,000	24,992,600	28,232,000	9,101,674	(15,890,926)
Explanation of variances	Variance represents unused funding, which will be moved to future years, resulting from extensive consultations required during the program design phase. We anticipate that projects will be launched in 2023-24 and future years.

Stem Cell Network

Start date	July 22, 2016
End date	March 31, 2025
Type of transfer payment	Contributions
Type of appropriation	Appropriated annually through the Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions	2021–22
Link to departmental result(s)	Canadian science, technology and innovation (STIn) research contributes to knowledge transfer
Link to the department's Program Inventory	Science and Research
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program	The Stem Cell Network (SCN) is a single recipient non-repayable contribution program, under which SCN is the only recipient. SCN is a national not-for-profit corporation dedicated to enabling the translation of regenerative medicine and stem cell research into clinical applications, commercial products and public policy by funding research projects in Canadian universities and hospitals, and partnering with international collaborators from institutions around the world. It was first established in 2001 as one of the Networks of Centres of Excellence. The contribution to SCN is non-repayable. Budget 2021 provided funding of $45 million over three years to SCN beginning in 2022–23.
Results achieved	In 2022-23, the Stem Cell Network (SCN) supported 33 research projects and 69 researchers involved in international collaboration. It also trained 608 highly qualified people and raised $22.4 million in cash and in-kind partner contributions.
Findings of audits completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–2023	An evaluation is planned in 2025–26.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–2023	ISED maintains an ongoing dialogue with SCN and reviews the Corporate Plan and Annual Report that SCN submits each year to monitor progress towards the achievement of expected results and compliance with the terms and conditions of the contribution agreement.

Financial information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment	2020–21 Actual spending	2021–22 Actual spending	2022–23 Planned spending	2022–23 Total authorities available for use	2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used)	Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned)
Total grants	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total contributions	6,000,000	6,000,000	15,000,000	15,000,000	15,000,000	0
Total other types of transfer payments	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total program	6,000,000	6,000,000	15,000,000	15,000,000	15,000,000	0
Explanation of variances	N/A – Less than 10%

Strategic Innovation Fund (SIF)

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 departmental result(s)	Canadian businesses and industries are innovative and growing
Link to the department's Program Inventory	Business Innovation
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program	The Strategic Innovation Fund (SIF) is a mixed contributions program and is comprised of 5 different streams: R&D and commercialization, firms expansion and growth, investment attraction and reinvestment, collaborative technology development and demonstration, and advancement of national innovation ecosystems to drive business scale-up, technology development and commercialization. Eligible recipients can be corporations incorporated in Canada, and consortia of such entities, depending on the stream. The contributions can be repayable, non-repayable, or conditionally repayable depending on the stream. Through various additional top ups, including $7.2B announced in Budget 2021 and $1.04B announced in Budget 2022, SIF now has funding of $18B over 13 years. The maximum contribution amount is $500M for an eligible project.
Results achieved	In 2022–23, the Strategic Innovation Fund (SIF) achieved notable results by providing $2 billion total to 15 new projects, which are expected to contribute approximately $13 billion to the economy. This included $4.5 billion in R&D investments, creating 5,560 jobs and preserving 13,439 positions, along with 4,072 co-op opportunities. SIF also dedicated $171 million to strengthen IP-rich projects, such as a $36 million investment in Ranovus Inc. that bolstered domestic semiconductor production and yielded economic growth and patents. These agreements will result in tangible benefits to Canadians such as maintaining and creating jobs and leveraging further investments in the Canadian economy. SIF's commitment to sustainability led to $1.6 billion directed towards five Net Zero Accelerator (NZA) projects, including a $259 million investment in General Motors of Canada Company's electric vehicle facility. The NZA Call to Action identified ten significant decarbonization projects. Moreover, SIF supported Canada's Biomanufacturing and Life Sciences Strategy with a $23.8 million contribution to Jubilant HollisterStier, creating and preserving jobs. ISED's efforts extended to $185 million in agreements for digital and clean growth initiatives. Gender equality and inclusive workplaces were promoted through projects embracing inclusive practices.
Findings of audits completed in 2022–2023	An Audit of the Strategic Innovation Fund (SIF) took place in 2021–22, the results of which are published online:
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–2023	An evaluation is planned in 2026–27.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–2023	Information about SIF and the application processes are available on the SIF website. Officials engage with applicants throughout the application process and there is ongoing engagement with recipients after projects have been funded. For projects that do not fit within the program's parameters, SIF works with other departments to identify programs that could be a better fit for applicants.

Financial information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment	2020–21 Actual spending	2021–22 Actual spending	2022–23 Planned spending	2022–23 Total authorities available for use	2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used)	Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned)
Total grants	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total contributions	581,443,572	625,384,331	1,365,698,198	1,364,652,945	1,039,391,069	(326,307,129)
Total other types of transfer payments	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total program	581,443,572	625,384,331	1,365,698,198	1,364,652,945	1,039,391,069	(326,307,129)
Explanation of variances	Variance is largely driven the program's structure as a continuous intake, claim-based program supporting third-party projects that provides funding to recipients only upon confirmation of spending. Despite active engagement with recipients, actual cash-flow needs can vary greatly from forecasts due to factors such as project delays and underspending. Unused funding has been moved to future years to align the funding profile with the cashflow requirements of the program.

Technology Demonstration Program

Start date	September 4, 2013
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 departmental result(s)	Canadian businesses and industries are innovative and growing
Link to the department's Program Inventory	Business Innovation
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program	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 sectors. Projects are led by an original equipment manufacturer or Tier 1 integrator (parts and resources suppliers), collaborating with SMEs (small to medium enterprises) 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 industrial research and pre-competitive development.
Results achieved	Consolidated into SIF July 5, 2017. See SIF program for results.
Findings of audits completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–2023	ISED maintains extensive engagements with industries, businesses and associations as well as with other federal departments and agencies, providing opportunities for feedback.

Financial information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment	2020–21 Actual spending	2021–22 Actual spending	2022–23 Planned spending	2022–23 Total authorities available for use	2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used)	Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned)
Total grants	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total contributions	22,021,291	17,759,202	10,750,991	9,795,362	9,795,362	(955,629)
Total other types of transfer payments	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total program	22,021,291	17,759,202	10,750,991	9,795,362	9,795,362	(955,629)
Explanation of variances	N/A – Less than 10% (Legacy program)

Tourism Relief Fund

Start date	April 1, 2021
End date	March 31, 2023
Type of transfer payment	Contribution
Type of appropriation	Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions	2021–2022
Link to departmental result(s)	Canadian businesses and industries are innovative and growing
Link to the department's Program Inventory	Tourism
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program	The Tourism Relief Fund is a non-repayable contribution program. The objective of the national portion is to support the advancement of national tourism priorities aligned with Canada's Federal Tourism Growth Strategy. Budget 2021 provided temporary funding in the amount of $15M over two years to support national tourism organizations in strategically adapting their products and services to adjust to public health requirements, while planning for and investing in recovery efforts for future growth. The maximum amount payable to any recipient will be $5M over two years.
Results achieved	The Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada has completed its project to support the Indigenous tourism industry's recovery from the impact of COVID-19, and better position it to take advantage of the expected growth in domestic and international demand for tourism offerings, and for sustainable and cultural tourism offerings in particular. Projects by Tourism HR Canada, Hotel Association of Canada and Tourism Industry Association of Canada to build the capacity of the Canadian tourism industry recover from the impact of COVID-19 and make Canada a tourism destination of choice are progressing well and are expected to be completed in 2023–2024.
Findings of audits completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022-2023	N/A
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–2023	Organizations listed as eligible recipients in the program's Terms and Conditions were invited to submit applications. Applicants are engaged on an as-needed basis to support assessment of their applications.

Financial information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment	2020–21 Actual spending	2021–22 Actual spending	2022–23 Planned spending	2022–23 Total authorities available for use	2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used)	Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned)
Total grants	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total contributions	0	0	9,001,489	15,000,000	11,615,338	2,613,849
Total other types of transfer payments	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total program	0	0	9,001,489	15,000,000	11,615,338	2,613,849
Explanation of variances	Variance reflects additional funding accessed in-year. The unused portion will be moved to 2023–24 to allow recipients to complete project activities and maximize project benefits as part of the National Tourism Priorities Stream.

Universal Broadband Fund

Start date	November 9, 2020
End date	March 31, 2027
Type of transfer payment	Contribution
Type of appropriation	Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions	2020–2021
Link to departmental result(s)	People and communities from all segments of Canadian society participate in the economy
Link to the department's Program Inventory	Bridging Digital Divides
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program	The $3.225B Universal Broadband Fund (UBF) will support high-speed Internet projects across the country over 7 years. It has been designed to fund broadband infrastructure projects that will bring high-speed Internet at 50/10 Megabits per second (Mbps) to rural and remote communities. In addition to funding a diversity of high-speed Internet projects to connect Canadians, there is: up to $50M available to support mobile Internet projects that primarily benefit Indigenous peoples, including projects along highways and roads where mobile connectivity is lacking; up to $750M available for large, high-impact projects; and, a Rapid Response Stream for shovel-ready projects that can be completed quickly. The UBF is part of the Government of Canada's coordinated plan to connect all Canadians, as outlined in Canada's Connectivity Strategy. It is also consistent with the Government's roadmap for supporting strong and resilient rural communities.
Results achieved	In November 2022, the Prime Minister announced a $475 million top-up to the Universal Broadband Fund (UBF) to help ensure the government reaches its goal of connecting 98% of Canadian households by 2026, and 100% by 2030. The now $3.225 billion UBF will connect rural and remote households across Canada to high-speed Internet and includes: a Rapid Response Stream (RRS), which funds shovel-ready projects that can connect households quickly; up to $750 million for large, high-impact projects; and up to $50 million for mobile projects that primarily benefit Indigenous peoples. As of March 31, 2023, over $2.2 billion in UBF funding was announced that will provide high-speed Internet access to 958,484 households. This includes 262 projects announced in detail as well as 6 broadband co-funding agreements with provinces that leverage an additional $2 billion in provincial funding. Under the mobile stream, 2 projects have been announced to date that will improve mobile connectivity along 267 kilometers of road. All funding under the mobile stream has been allocated. As of March 31, 2023, 220,242 households—including 8,749 Indigenous households—now have new access to high-speed Internet as a result of UBF projects. Overall, 93.5% of Canadian homes have access to high-speed Internet today, and the government is on track to exceed its target to provide access to 98% by 2026.
Findings of audits completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–2023	An evaluation is planned in 2024–25.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–2023	Engagement activities include: enhanced outreach with applicants on project development through a pathfinder service; coordination with provincial/territorial and First Nations groups, partners and other government departments and agencies to leverage funding available for broadband; a website with an interactive mapping tool; sustained social media presence; and ongoing interaction and monitoring of project recipients.

Financial information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment	2020–21 Actual spending	2021–22 Actual spending	2022–23 Planned spending	2022–23 Total authorities available for use	2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used)	Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned)
Total grants	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total contributions	0	302,466,744	921,297,164	955,182,149	248,230,982	(673,066,182)
Total other types of transfer payments	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total program	0	302,466,744	921,297,164	955,182,149	248,230,982	(673,066,182)
Explanation of variances	Variance is due in part to the time required to assess proposals and negotiate contribution agreement with recipients for projects in 2022-23. In addition, many UBF applicants that have conditionally approved projects needed additional time to finalize their plans and events related to sensitive and complex project locations serving Indigenous communities. Unused funding will be moved to future years to better align with anticipated projects cash flow requirements in order to meet connectivity objectives of 98% by 2026.

Women Entrepreneurship Strategy (WES)

Start date	October 18, 2018
End date	WES Ecosystem Fund — March 31, 2025 Women Entrepreneurship Loan Fund – March 31, 2025 Inclusive Women Venture Capital Initiative – March 31, 2025
Type of transfer payment	WES — Contribution
Type of appropriation	Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions	2021–22
Link to departmental result(s)	People and communities from all segments of Canadian society participate in the economy
Link to the department's Program Inventory	Support for Underrepresented Entrepreneurs
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program	The WES is a whole of government strategy that continues to help increase women-owned businesses' access to the financing, talent, networks and expertise they need to start up, scale up and access new markets. The WES represents commitments and investments from across the federal government to help women entrepreneurs and support innovation ecosystems through multiple program streams: WES Ecosystem Fund: A program designed to help not-for-profit, third-party organizations deliver support for women entrepreneurs and address gaps in the ecosystem. In addition to an initial $100 million Ecosystem investment in 2018 and 2020, through Budget 2021, the WES Ecosystem Fund received $65 million in additional funding to strengthen ecosystem supports for diverse women entrepreneurs and those in rural and remote areas. Total program investment since 2018 is $165 million. Women Entrepreneurship Loan Fund: This $55 million program is designed to provide loans of up to $50,000 for under-served, diverse women entrepreneurs. Inclusive Women Venture Capital Initiative: This $15 million initiative is designed to fund projects led by not-for-profit organizations to strengthen and build a more inclusive venture capital environment for Canadian women, especially for diverse, intersectional and/or under-served women. Note: For Women Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub: see Support for Women Entrepreneurs
Results achieved	Results for each stream include: Women Entrepreneurship Loan Fund: WES Ecosystem Fund: Inclusive Women Venture Capital Initiative: In 2022–23, the Women Entrepreneurship Loan Fund made loans of up to $50,000 available for diverse, under-served women entrepreneurs through five loan administrators. As the program started to roll out, 185 women entrepreneurs received loans totalling over $4.6 million to help start or grow their businesses. No new projects were funded under the WES Ecosystem Fund in 2022–23. In coordination with ISED, Regional Development Agencies (RDAs) concluded the delivery of a $100M investment that funded seven national projects and 45 regional projects led by business support organizations that support women-owned and -led businesses. These 52 projects ended March 31, 2023. In total, the seven RDAs (PacifiCan (formerly WD), PrairiesCan (formerly WD), FedDev, ACOA, FedNor, CanNor, and CED) reported 26,462 women entrepreneurs were supported through projects led by 2018 WES Ecosystem Fund recipients. This includes 4,093 women entrepreneurs supported in starting a new business and 5,247 women entrepreneurs supported in growing an existing business. Announced in March 2023, 24 recipient organizations were selected under two new calls of the WES Ecosystem Fund, led by ISED. Eight organizations were selected under the first call and are administering projects to strengthen capacity and address ecosystem gaps for diverse populations of women entrepreneurs. Under the second call, 16 organizations are delivering projects focused on areas of strength for women, as well as providing services to women entrepreneurs in rural and remote areas or the North. Contribution agreements for second call recipients are being finalized in 2023-24. In the same March 2023 announcement, five recipient organizations were selected to deliver projects under the Inclusive Women Venture Capital Initiative. The projects aim to increase Canadian women entrepreneurs' access to venture capital funding, contribute to increasing representation of women in the Canadian venture capital industry, and reduce biases in the Canadian venture capital industry. Contribution agreements are being finalized for the projects.
Findings of audits completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–2023	An evaluation of the Women's Entrepreneurship Strategy (RDA-delivered initiatives) is planned in 2023–24 and an evaluation of the Women's Entrepreneurship Strategy (ISED-delivered initiatives) is planned in 2024–25.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–2023	For Ecosystem Fund recipients as well as Loan Fund delivery organizations and Inclusive Women Venture Capital Initiative recipients, ISED regularly engages recipient organizations on funding delivery, reporting requirements and the evaluation of program activities as per results framework.

Financial information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment	2020–21 Actual spending	2021–22 Actual spending	2022–23 Planned spending	2022–23 Total authorities available for use	2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used)	Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned)
Total grants	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total contributions	0	0	61,650,000	61,650,000	42,361,720	(19,288,280)
Total other types of transfer payments	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total program	0	0	61,650,000	61,650,000	42,361,720	(19,288,280)
Explanation of variances	Variance represents unused funding as a result of the proposal assessment and negotiations with recipients in 2022-23. A portion of this funding ($13M) was moved to future years to better align with anticipated cash flow of the program and to ensure all recipients, partners and women entrepreneurs participating in the program will benefit from the program.

TPPs with total actual spending of less than $5 million

Affordable Access Initiative (now known as Connecting Families Initiative)

Start date	October 1, 2017
End date	March 31, 2027
Type of transfer payment	Contribution
Type of appropriation	Appropriated annually through the Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions	2020–21
Link to departmental result(s)	People and communities from all segments of Canadian society participate in the economy
Link to the department's Program Inventory	Bridging Digital Divides
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program	The Connecting Families Initiative (CFI) is closing the gaps in internet affordability and accessibility across the country. The initiative provides low-cost Internet service plans to low-income Canadians through partnership with private sector supports, supports that are customized to the unique requirements of each start-up, to help start-ups secure and maintain IP rights, while enabling longer-term IP benefits to be delivered through the BAI ecosystem
Results achieved	As of March 31, 2023, 85,354 families and seniors are now receiving a Connecting Families initiative (CFI) internet package. That is an increase of 10,214 subscribers since March 31, 2022 when the program had 75,140 families participating.
Findings of audits completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–2023	Recipients are engaged through regular monitoring and reporting. All recipients participate in bi-monthly teleconference meetings, site visits and an annual meeting to discuss potential issues, trends and the future of the program.

Financial information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment	2020–21 Actual spending	2021–22 Actual spending	2022–23 Planned spending	2022–23 Total authorities available for use	2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used)	Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned)
Total grants	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total contributions	2,428,439	1,803,3907	0	900,000	900,000	900,000
Total other types of transfer payments	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total program	2,428,439	1,803,397	0	900,000	900,000	900,000
Explanation of variances	Variance reflects renewed funding received in-year to support increased digital inclusion in Canada.

Business/Higher Education Roundtable

Start date	June 13, 2019
End date	March 31, 2025
Type of transfer payment	Contribution
Type of appropriation	Appropriated annually through the Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions	2019–20
Link to departmental result(s)	Canadian businesses and industries are innovative and growing
Link to the department's Program Inventory	Talent Development
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program	The Business + Higher Education Roundtable (BHER) is a non repayable single recipient contribution program. It has the objective of leveraging the strengths of Canadian businesses, universities and colleges to deepen collaboration and improve opportunities for young Canadians. ISED funding to BHER supports the creation of Work Integrated Learning (WIL) placements and strengthens the WIL ecosystem. The only eligible recipient of this contribution is the Business + Higher Education Roundtable, a national not-for-profit organization. Budget 2019 provided BHER with $17 million between 2019-20 and 2021–22. An additional $17.1 million over three years was allocated to the program starting in 2022–23.
Results achieved	In 2022–23, BHER secured 22 agreements with WIL partners and committing to deliver 17,325 WIL opportunities over three years. By March 31, 2023, BHER had surpassed its fiscal year target for 2022-23, delivering 7,968 completed or in-progress WIL opportunities. In 2022–23, BHER also undertook stakeholder consultation and engagement to support the development of : a) new tools and resources for employers providing WIL opportunities; b) five virtual regional hubs (Central, Atlantic, Prairies, West Coast and Territories) to create opportunities for businesses and post-secondary institutions to collaborate and share knowledge.
Findings of audits completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–2023	An evaluation is planned in 2023–24.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–2023	BHER engages directly with a range of stakeholders from across the Canadian WIL ecosystem, including industry associations, employers/businesses, provincial government officials, and post-secondary institutions. Such engagement takes place in various forms, from individual meetings and sit-downs, to speaking at cross-country events like the Future Skills Centre's Regional Sounding Tour, for which BHER was a co-convener. Further, ISED and BHER interact constantly through weekly emails and monthly meetings/teleconferences. Meetings involve receiving key updates from BHER on deliverables and key performance targets, as well as the status of their activities (tools, WIL placements, partnerships etc). Throughout the program ISED hosted consultations with post-secondary education (PSE) stakeholders, public policy think tanks, and student organizations including: BHER, Business Council of Canada, Mitacs, Canadian Federation of Independent Business, Canadian Chamber of Commerce, College and Institutes Canada, Conference Board of Canada, Association francophone pour le savoir, Federation of Social Sciences and Humanities, Universities Canada, U15, Polytechnics Canada, the Future Skills Centre, the Canadian Alliance of Student Associations and the Canadian Association for Co Operative Education, now known as CEWIL. These engagements helped ensure that addressing stakeholder needs drives the program's development and how it is implemented.

Financial information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment	2020–21 Actual spending	2021–22 Actual spending	2022–23 Planned spending	2022–23 Total authorities available for use	2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used)	Variance (2022–23 actual m d)
Total grants	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total contributions	7,665,963	6,861,558	0	5,323,627	4,356,856	4,356,856
Total other types of transfer payments	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total program	7,665,963	6,861,558	0	5,323,627	4,356,856	4,356,856
Explanation of variances	Variance reflects renewed funding received in-year to support the creation of up to 23,000 new unsubsidized work-integrated learning placements for Canadian students. The unused portion has been identified to be moved to future years.

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	2020–2021
Link to departmental result(s)	People and communities from all segments of Canadian society participate in the economy
Link to the department's Program Inventory	Bridging Digital Divides
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program	Through the Computers for Schools Plus (CFS+) program, donated surplus computer equipment and devices are refurbished by youth interns hired by the program's national, provincial and territorial program partners. Once refurbished, the computer equipment and devices are distributed to schools, libraries, not-for-profit organizations Indigenous communities and eligible low-income Canadians across Canada. Through this national partnership-based network, the program ensures improved access for Canadians to technology.
Results achieved	In 2022–2023, CFS+ distributed 58,805 computers to schools, libraries and non-profit organizations, among others. Over the life of the program, CFS+ has distributed more than 1.97 million devices.
Findings of audits completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–2023	An evaluation of the Computers for Schools Plus and Computers for Schools Intern Programs was completed in 2022–23.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–2023	Recipients are engaged through regular monitoring and reporting. All recipients participate in bi–monthly teleconference meetings, site visits and an annual meeting to discuss potential issues, trends and the future of the program.

Financial information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment	2020–21 Actual spending	2021–22 Actual spending	2022–23 Planned spending	2022–23 Total authorities available for use	2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used)	Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned)
Total grants	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total contributions	4,958,804	4,675,532	4,663,157	4,663,157	4,663,156	(1)
Total other types of transfer payments	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total program	4,958,804	4,675,532	4,663,157	4,663,157	4,663,156	(1)
Explanation of variances	N/A – Less than 10%

Computers for Schools Intern Program

Start date	1997
End date	Ongoing
Type of transfer payment	Contribution
Type of appropriation	Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions	2019–2020
Link to departmental result(s)	Canadian businesses and industries are innovative and growing
Link to the department's Program Inventory	Talent Development
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program	Through the Computers for Schools Plus (CFS+) program, donated surplus computer equipment and devices are refurbished by youth interns hired by the program's national, provincial and territorial program partners. Once refurbished, the computer equipment and devices are distributed to schools, libraries, not-for-profit organizations Indigenous communities and eligible low-income Canadians across Canada. Through this national partnership-based network, the program ensures improved access for Canadians to technology. The CFSI program also falls under the Youth Employment and Skills Strategy (YESS). CFSI, which is part of the CFS+, is intended to provide youth with opportunities to develop digital skills by refurbishing the computers that eventually get distributed to schools, libraries, non-profit organizations etc..
Results achieved	In 2022–23, 187 youth participated in the program, exceeding the target of 160 youth. The CFSI program also falls under the Youth Employment and Skills Strategy (YESS).
Findings of audits completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–2023	An evaluation of the Computers for Schools Plus and Computers for Schools Intern Programs was completed in 2022–23.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–2023	Recipients are engaged through regular monitoring and reporting. All recipients participate in monthly teleconference meetings, site visits and an annual meeting to discuss potential issues, trends and the future of the program.

Financial information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment	2020–21 Actual spending	2021–22 Actual spending	2022–23 Planned spending	2022–23 Total authorities available for use	2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used)	Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned)
Total grants	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total contributions	4,945,107	7,341,933	4,797,085	4,737,085	4,734,149	(62,936)
Total other types of transfer payments	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total program	4,945,107	7,341,933	4,797,085	4,737,085	4,734,149	(62,936)
Explanation of variances	N/A – Less than 10%

Coordinated Accessible National Health Network

Start date	December 22, 2022
End date	March 31, 2026
Type of transfer payment	Contribution
Type of appropriation	Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions	No Terms and Conditions
Link to departmental result(s)	Canadian businesses and industries are innovative and growing
Link to the department's Program Inventory	Business Innovation
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program	The CAN Health Network (CHN) brings together health-care organizations from across Canada to conduct joint technology demonstration/validation projects and to create an environment where these organizations can leverage their purchasing power to issue joint procurement opportunities for successful participating Canadian businesses. The CHN was established as a pilot project led by the Regional Development Agencies (RDAs) and funded via their Regional Economic Growth program. Since 2019, the CHN has received a total of $12,450,000 in support from the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev) and Prairies Economic Development Canada. Budget 2022 announced $30 million over four years, starting in fiscal year 2022–23, to build upon the success of the CHN, and expand it nationally to Quebec, the territories, and Indigenous communities. This expansion will support the growth, commercialization and adoption of Canadian health-care solutions, helping ensure that Canada is prepared for future threats to our health-care system.
Results achieved	The program timeline for delivery is April 7, 2022 to March 31, 2026, however, the CAN Health Initiative was not approved by Treasury Board until December 2022, with the Contribution Agreement only signed on December 22, 2022. Therefore, the CAN Health Network could not distribute funding until January at the earliest, when the first advance payment was processed and the CA was finalized. In the absence of available funds until January, the initiative had to risk manage operations, and reduce project spending for the year. Once the CA was signed, activities ramped up. ISC processed three advance payments to the CAN Health Network in support of their projects and operations (valuing approximately $4M), supported the public announcement of the Initiative (March 3) and ensured that the Memorandum of Understanding between CAN Health Network and Communitech Corporation was finalized. While there is limited data for the 2022–23 FY, CAN Health was able to grow their organization from 27 members to 30. They also launched 9 Call for Proposals, contracted 8 new demonstration projects and one of those projects resulted in a procured health innovation.
Findings of audits completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–2023	In the 2022–23 FY, the CAN Health Network conducted project engagement activities with its Ultimate Recipients. As stated in the Departmental Plan, the CAN Health Network is responsible for engaging with member Edges, the recruitment of new Edges, and launching Calls for Innovation (COI) to attract Canadian companies to undertake the project activity under each COI. Each project has their own governing board (Project Advisory Board) that set strategic engagement points throughout a project, and appropriately leverage expertise and drive adoption on Network engagement from the very beginning. The Project Advisory Boards are engaged throughout the lifecycle of the project, but primarily through the following five points: Company Selection Project Design Project Updates (x2) Project Spotlight At project close, the CAN Health team holds a 45-minute targeted opportunity—The Deeper Dive—for the company and Edge to co-present and share the project's outcomes. Invites to these sessions are further extended to end-users and decision-makers within the Edges so they may see first-hand how the project has succeeded. The host Edge is also encouraged at this stage to put out a 'Call to Action' expressing that they will be moving forward with procurement, and inviting other Edges to join or get in touch to learn more. CAN Health continues to conduct all engagement points listed above. In addition to the engagement they conduct with their Ultimate Recipients, CAN Health is also proactively seeking collaboration with other health-tech companies, including signing a memorandum of understanding with Medtech Canada and the Digital Supercluster to further strengthen their operations and support innovation along the continuum. For reporting engagement, the CAN Health Network meets bi-weekly (previously weekly) with ISED and Communitech to report on the progress of the Network, expansion activities, and project development.

Financial information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment	2020–21 Actual spending	2021–22 Actual spending	2022–23 Planned spending	2022–23 Total authorities available for use	2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used)	Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned)
Total grants	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total contributions	0	0	0	4,000,000	2,507,437	2,507,437
Total other types of transfer payments	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total program	0	0	0	4,000,000	2,507,437	2,507,437
Explanation of variances	New funding received in-year to expand the CAN Health Network to Quebec and the territories, including Indigenous communities. As this funding was approved late in the fiscal year, the unused portion will be moved to future years to ensure the program can benefit from the full funding envelope.

Council of Canadian Academies

Start date	April 1, 2005
End date	March 31, 2024
Type of transfer payment	Contribution
Type of appropriation	Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions	2021–22
Link to departmental result(s)	Canadian science, technology and innovation (STIn) research contributes to knowledge transfer
Link to the department's Program Inventory	Science and Research
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program	The Council of Canadian Academies (CCA) is an independent, not-for-profit organization that provides science-based, expert assessments for federal departments and agencies to inform public policy development in Canada. Additionally, the CCA also conducts assessments for the private sector and other levels of government on a cost-recovery basis. ISED has funded the CCA since 2005, through federal budgets, in the amount of $3 million per year.
Results achieved	In 2022–23, the Council of Canadian Academies (CCA) released four expert panel reports and continued progress on the work of 10 expert panels. This led to 35 panel meetings (21 virtual, 14 in-person) that engaged more than 182 experts. These reports reached 13,657 downloads, 770 media mentions and 4,570 social media mentions. Concomitantly, the CCA also saw a 26% increase in downloads (7,417) of KMb products (report summaries and infographics) from 2021-22. Furthermore, the CCA's public engagement has shown improvements based on a 40% increase in its website traffic and a 56% increase in Twitter engagement rates compared to 2021–22.
Findings of audits completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–2023	As the CCA is a single recipient contribution, ISED maintains an ongoing dialogue and reviews the Corporate Plan and Annual Report submitted each year to track progress towards the achievement of expected results and compliance with the terms and conditions of the contribution agreement. An ISED official attends the CCA Board of Directors meetings as an observer.

Financial information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment	2020–21 Actual spending	2021–22 Actual spending	2022–23 Planned spending	2022–23 Total authorities available for use	2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used)	Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned)
Total grants	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total contributions	3,300,000	4,075,000	2,750,000	3,750,000	3,750,000	1,000,000
Total other types of transfer payments	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total program	3,300,000	4,075,000	2,750,000	3,750,000	3,750,000	1,000,000
Explanation of variances	Variance represents existing funding transferred in-year to meet program requirements.

Cyber Security Innovation Network

Start date	June 28, 2022
End date	March 31, 2026
Type of transfer payment	Contribution
Type of appropriation	Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions	2020–2021
Link to departmental result(s)	Canadian businesses and industries are innovative and growing.
Link to the department's Program Inventory	Business Innovation
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program	Budget 2019 provided $80M over four years to support three or more Canadian cyber security centres across Canada that are affiliated with post-secondary institutions to address the growing need for Canada to: enhance and expand cyber security research and development; increase commercialization; and develop skilled talent. The Lead Recipient of the program is the National Cybersecurity Consortium (NCC), a not-for-profit organization federally incorporated under the Canada Not-for-Profit Corporations Act and located in Canada.
Results achieved	In 2022-23, the NCC advanced its foundational structure as a not-for-profit organization and launched its first call for proposals for projects to be funded. The organization also set its strategic priorities for 2023–-24 as part of its Corporate Plan.
Findings of audits completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–2023	An evaluation of the Cyber Security Innovation Network is planned in 2025–26.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–2023	ISED maintains ongoing dialogue with the NCC and reviews the Corporate Plan and Annual Report that the NCC submits each year to monitor progress towards the achievement of expected results and compliance with the terms and conditions of the contribution agreement. A government official also attends NCC Board of Directors meetings as an observer.

Financial information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment	2020–21 Actual spending	2021–22 Actual spending	2022–23 Planned spending	2022–23 Total authorities available for use	2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used)	Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned)
Total grants	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total contributions	0	0	19,118,535	19,118,535	744,767	(18,373,768)
Total other types of transfer payments	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total program	0	0	19,118,535	19,118,535	744,767	(18,373,768)
Explanation of variances	CSIN is a claims-based program and incurs costs after projects have been completed by ultimate recipients. The unused funding reflects pandemic-related delays which have persisted throughout 2022–23. It has been moved to future years to align the funding profile with the cashflow requirements.

Dedicated Computing Capacity in Artificial Intelligence

Start date	September 28, 2022
End date	March 31, 2027
Type of transfer payment	Contribution
Type of appropriation	Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions	2022–2023
Link to departmental result(s)	Canadian science, technology and innovation (STIn) research contributes to knowledge transfer
Link to the department's Program Inventory	Science and Research
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program	Through a contribution to DRAC, ISED will provide $39 million in funding announced in Budget 2021 to provide dedicated computing capacity for Artificial Intelligence (AI) researchers as part of PCAIS. DRAC will provide funding to ultimate recipients for the procurement and operation of AI computing infrastructure, which will be spread across three national AI host sites, namely; the University of Laval, the University of Alberta, and the University of Toronto. The objective of this project is to provide dedicated computing capacity for CIFAR's AI Chairs at the national artificial intelligence institutes in Edmonton, Toronto, and Montréal. DRAC, in collaboration with CIFAR, the AI institutes, the Regional Organizations, and the Host Sites will acquire, deliver, and support three new dedicated compute systems designed and dedicated for AI research integrated into the National DRI platform. By providing dedicated computing capacity for AI research, this project will support talent and expand research capacity in Canadian AI.
Results achieved	In its initial year (2022–23), the program predominantly focused on planning and coordinating the procurement of new systems, as well as preparing for their coordinated operation as an integrated national platform.
Findings of audits completed in 2022–2023	An audit is planned for 2025–2026.
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–2023	An evaluation of the Pan-Canadian Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2.0 is planned in 2025–26.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–2023	Government officials regularly attend DRAC Board and other meetings specific to AI computing, as observers. DRAC also engages with the host sites and ISED on a regular basis

Financial information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment	2020–21 Actual spending	2021–22 Actual spending	2022–23 Planned spending	2022–23 Total authorities available for use	2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used)	Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned)
Total grants	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total contributions	0	0	7,800,000	7,800,000	618,628	(7,181,372)
Total other types of transfer payments	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total program	0	0	7,800,000	7,800,000	618,628	(7,181,372)
Explanation of variances	The variance represents unused funding as a result of global supply chain issues impacting the delivery and installation of equipment. It has been moved to future years to align the funding profile with the updated project and acquisition plans of the ultimate recipients.

Digital Literacy Exchange Program

Start date	September 28, 2017
End date	March 31, 2025
Type of transfer payment	Contribution
Type of appropriation	Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions	2017–18, amended 2022–23
Link to departmental result(s)	People and communities from all segments of Canadian society participate in the economy
Link to the department's Program Inventory	Bridging Digital Divides
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program	The Digital Literacy Exchange Program is a contribution program that seeks to support 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.
Results achieved	In 2022–23, the Digital Literacy Exchange Program launched the second phase of the program, resulting in the selection of 23 recipients. Funding agreements have been negotiated and signed with all recipients. Initial funding for 2022-23 has been disbursed and program activities are underway. Since the launch of Digital Literacy Exchange Program in 2017–2018, the government has provided digital literacy training to over 400,000 participants, to provide them with the basic digital literacy skills needed to fully participate in the digital economy and society.
Findings of audits completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–2023	Recipients are engaged through regular outreach on project development and quarterly monitoring and reporting of projects. Based on ongoing feedback received from recipients during these engagement processes, program procedures are adapted, resulting in improved program delivery and more streamlined claim and risk analysis processes.

Financial information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment	2020–21 Actual spending	2021–22 Actual spending	2022–23 Planned spending	2022–23 Total authorities available for use	2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used)	Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned)
Total grants	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total contributions	6,728,296	7,840,799	0	508,631	508,631	508,631
Total other types of transfer payments	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total program	6,728,296	7,840,799	0	508,631	508,631	508,631
Explanation of variances	Variance is due to renewed funding received in-year to support increased digital inclusion in Canada.

ElevateIP

Start date	April 1, 2022
End date	March 31, 2026
Type of transfer payment	Contribution
Type of appropriation	Appropriated annually through the Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions	2021–22
Link to departmental result(s)	Canadian businesses and industries are innovative and growing
Link to the department's Program Inventory	Business Innovation
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program	ElevateIP is a non-repayable contribution program. It's purpose is to help Business Accelerators and Incubators (BAIs) and BAI networks provide start-ups with access to professional intellectual property (IP) supports. ElevateIP will help BAIs provide the tools Canadian start-ups need to protect, strategically manage and leverage their IP.ElevateIP aims to meet the following program objectives: facilitate IP supports by BAIs to start-ups at key junctures in the entrepreneurial process to enable the rapid scaling, growth and sustainability of start-ups in Canada; and help increase the IP capacity of the BAI ecosystem in Canada by enabling IP education for BAIs and their start-up members, facilitating the exchange of best practices, encouraging collaboration, and providing greater access to IP advice and support as an integrated component of general business supports offered by BAIs enable BAIs to provide targeted supports, supports that are customized to the unique requirements of each start-up, to help start-ups secure and maintain IP rights, while enabling longer-term IP benefits to be delivered through the BAI ecosystem.
Results achieved	ElevateIP was announced in Budget 2021 to help Business Accelerators and Incubators (BAIs) provide start-ups with access to professional Intellectual Property (IP) supports. In the 2022-23 fiscal year, ISED officially launched the program with a nation-wide call for proposals on World IP Day (April 26, 2022). After a comprehensive assessment of the proposals received, the program announced five selected Recipients in December 2022 that would receive a total of $87 million in government funding. The selected Recipients cover all provinces and territories of the country to ensure start-ups everywhere will receive targeted IP supports. Following the announcement, ISED officials worked with these Recipients to formalize their project plans and negotiate Contribution Agreements (CAs). CAs were successfully executed in March 2023, setting out the roles and responsibilities of both parties for next three years.
Findings of audits completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–2023	ISED officials regularly engages with program recipients to establish agreements and monitor projects, providing advice and guidance, as needed, with respect to program requirements.

Financial information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment	2020–21 Actual spending	2021–22 Actual spending	2022–23 Planned spending	2022–23 Total authorities available for use	2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used)	Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned)
Total grants	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total contributions	0	0	0	4,000,000	1,002,427	1,002,427
Total other types of transfer payments	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total program	0	0	0	4,000,000	1,002,427	1,002,427
Explanation of variances	New funding received in-year to help business accelerators and incubators provide Canadian start-ups with better access to Intellectual Property (IP) expertise and services to allow them to use their IP more strategically. Funding was approved late in the fiscal year, giving recipients very limited time to undertake project activities, and as such the unused portion will be moved to future years to meet project commitments.

Indigenous Intellectual Property Program

Start date	January 16, 2019
End date	Ongoing
Type of transfer payment	Grant
Type of appropriation	Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions	2018–19
Link to departmental result(s)	Businesses, investors and consumers are confident in the Canadian marketplace, including the digital economy
Link to the department's Program Inventory	Intellectual Property
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program	As part of the Intellectual Property (IP) Strategy, the Indigenous IP Program (IIPP) grant seeks to support Indigenous Peoples' IP awareness and capacity building, and enabling participation of Indigenous representatives in the development and implementation of policy and programs at both the domestic and international level relating to the relationships between the IP system and the protection of Indigenous knowledge (IK) and Indigenous cultural expressions (ICEs). The program grant seeks to improve the inclusiveness of the IP system in Canada by funding Indigenous communities, governments, companies, associations, and other eligible organizations. Budget 2018 provided funding in the amount of $1M over five years (2018–19 to 2022–23) and $200K ongoing – with the majority of funds provided through the IIPP grants ($125K in 2019–20 and 2021–22 and $150K in 2018–19 and 2020–21, 2022–23 and ongoing) and the remaining funds used for engagement, research, and other operational activities to support the delivery of the IIPP initiatives.
Results achieved	The Indigenous IP Program received sixteen applications from thirteen Indigenous organizations with requests totalling over $550,000 for 2022-23. Of these sixteen applicants, fourteen were deemed eligible, and of those, six received grants for a total of $147,596. The funds went to launching projects that are expected to be completed by April 2024, and that will result in: a private talking circle/roundtable discussion involving Indigenous business owners, lawyers, academics, Elders, and IP subject matter experts across Canada to explore the intersections between Indigenous Knowledge and IP and develop a report capturing these perspectives; the development by Friendship Centres of IP focused guiding documents for urban and rural Indigenous peoples to promote IP capacity building and Indigenous knowledge transfer; IP protection for a mobile app for Indigenous communities to collect environmental data based on Indigenous Knowledge (IK) for environmental monitoring; an Indigenous environmental remediation company developing policies, procedures, and protocols for the ethical collection, management, and storing of traditional knowledge in ecological restoration work through engagement with Elders; and an Indigenous cosmetics company developing an indigenized protocol for working with culturally important plants in a lab-based setting honoring traditional Squamish plant knowledge. Many of these organizations plan to have their results and deliverables available to other Indigenous Peoples and to the public at large, thus increasing the benefits of their works. The six organizations that received grants represented First Nations, Métis, and Inuit groups based in Manitoba, Ontario, the Yukon, and British Columbia, two of which were Indigenous women-owned and led small businesses. To help improve the service delivery timelines for the next round, the 2023-2024 grant applications opened a month earlier, and online forms were offered; this should allow the panelists more time to review the applications and improve the turnaround on the grant delivery for the coming year. Past projects included support to Indigenous museums, arts collectives, education centres, and regional bodies, to develop policy documents, IP planning strategies, guides, courses, and discussions on the intersection of traditional knowledge and IP law.
Findings of audits completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–2023	An evaluation of the Intellectual Property Strategy was conducted in 2022–23 and will be completed in 2023–24.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–2023	ISED maintains extensive engagements with industries, businesses and associations as well as with other federal departments and agencies, providing opportunities for feedback.

Financial information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment	2020–21 Actual spending	2021–22 Actual spending	2022–23 Planned spending	2022–23 Total authorities available for use	2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used)	Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned)
Total grants	115,000	116,665	150,000	150,000	147,597	(2,404)
Total contributions	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total other types of transfer payments	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total program	115,000	116,665	150,000	150,000	147,597	(2,404)
Explanation of variances	N/A – Less than 10%

Innovative Solutions Canada

Start date	December, 2017
End date	Ongoing
Type of transfer payment	Grant
Type of appropriation	Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions	2017–18
Link to departmental result(s)	Canadian businesses and industries are innovative and growing
Link to the department's Program Inventory	Business Innovation
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program	Innovative Solutions Canada (ISC) is a research and development (R&D) procurement program that supports the growth, scale-up, and commercialization objectives of innovative Canadian firms. ISC consists of two funding streams, Challenge and Testing, focused on early and late-stage research and development respectively. The program has five core objectives: Fuel the development and adoption of technological innovation in Canada; Support the growth of Canadian companies and commercialization of Canadian innovation through direct funding to support early-stage and late-stage prototypes; Encourage the procurement of technologies developed by companies led by underrepresented groups such as women, Indigenous, youth, disabled individuals, LGBTQ2+ and others; Foster greater industry-research collaboration through the release of challenges for solutions that address key Government of Canada priorities; and, Provide federal departments and agencies with opportunities to develop new capabilities to meet their research and development needs and advance government priorities.
Results achieved	Innovative Solutions Canada's results and delivery targets were established when the program was launched in 2017, as a challenge-based R&D grant and procurement program. The program's results and delivery targets align with the Government of Canada's Innovation and Skills plan, and ISED's goal of ensuring that Canadian companies are globally competitive and achieve high growth. Available data to support those targets includes: Since inception, the program has issued 697 awards, either as grants or procurement contracts, including 332 contracts to support innovation prototype testing, and 365 of combined grants and contracts to advance early stage research and development along the technology development cycle; Close to two thirds of funded companies commercialized their innovation and about half of the funded companies exported; and ISC funding helped most companies create new full-time employment positions. According to post-funding data, for example over 80% of Small companies that participated in either program stream created full time positions. The program was renewed in 2022–23. Additional representation of ISC's results achieved can be found in ISC's 2018, 2019, 2020 and 2021 annual reports.
Findings of audits completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–2023	Over the past year, ISC has increased its digital presence to widen its reach. In 2022–23, a few of the highlights include: Growth of the program's subscribers list through Cyber Impact (email distribution list) by over 2,000, to now over 15,000; Growth of followers on the Innovative Solutions Canada LinkedIn showcase page to over 7,000 followers, while maintaining over 6% of engagement on its posts; Targeted outreach for leading up to the launch of new funding opportunities to drive quality applications to the program; and, Developed three feature story videos, which will be published on the ISC website in 2023–24. ISC continued to build its relationships within the innovation eco-system in order to connect with, and inform, key stakeholders and influencers, in order to expand its reach and attract pre-eminent companies to apply for funding. ISC participated in over 35 events to build awareness of the program within the Canadian innovation eco-system, including some events to build awareness of the program with underrepresented groups (e.g. women-led and Indigenous-led businesses). ISC continued to engage National and regional women business support organizations and Indigenous organizations through tailored and targeted outreach. ISC also ran targeted advertising content through social media channels focused on Indigenous and women innovators, in order to help raise awareness of the program as a potential funding opportunities. ISC engages regularly with supported companies through feedback surveys. These surveys allow ISC to track program impact on company growth, scale up and export, and gather business intelligence to improve the program's service to business. Companies will continue to receive surveys each year following their initial award for up to five years to measure program impact over time. The response rate to these surveys varies by program stream: it ranges between 20 and 40 per cent of funded companies.

Financial information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment	2020–21 Actual spending	2021–22 Actual spending	2022–23 Planned spending	2022–23 Total authorities available for use	2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used)	Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned)
Total grants	985,000	400,000	600,000	1,792,000	1,792,000	1,192,000
Total contributions	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total other types of transfer payments	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total program	985,000	400,000	600,000	1,792,000	1,792,000	1,192,000
Explanation of variances	Variance represents existing funding transferred in-year to support the Ultra-Long-Range Wireless Backhaul challenge.

Intellectual Property Strategy – IP Legal Clinics

Start date	January 16, 2019
End date	Ongoing
Type of transfer payment	Grant
Type of appropriation	Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions	2018–19
Link to departmental result(s)	Businesses, investors and consumers are confident in the Canadian marketplace, including the digital economy
Link to the department's Program Inventory	Intellectual Property
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program	The Intellectual Property (IP) Legal Clinics Program is a grant program intended to encourage the establishment or enhancement of IP legal clinics within Canadian law schools and forms part of the IP Strategy,. The objectives of the IP Legal Clinics Program are to enable law students to learn more about IP, help businesses get a sense of their IP needs, and facilitate access to the professionals that can provide quality IP advice. By supporting the provision of free or low-cost access to basic IP advisory services, the IP Legal Clinics Program helps Canadian innovators and entrepreneurs better understand, protect, and commercialize IP. In addition, by increasing the exposure of university students to IP issues, it fosters the development of future IP experts.
Results achieved	In 2022–23, the program continued to support student IP experience and advisory services to businesses through projects designed to launch new clinic services and provide workshop opportunities for innovators. Five law schools received funding for projects that adding IP services and learning opportunities to existing clinics, offering clinic-led trademark workshops for local entrepreneurs and expanding and enhancing chatbot services, particularly for underrepresented groups.
Findings of audits completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–2023	An evaluation of the Intellectual Property Strategy was conducted in 2022–23 and will be completed in 2023–24.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–2023	The Department plans to continue consulting with past recipients on benefits achieved and results obtained from past funded projects under the IP Legal Clinics Program. In addition, the Departments will also continue consulting with all eligible applicants, i.e., all Canadian university law schools, on funding possibilities to enhance an existing legal clinic or establish a new one.

Financial information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment	2020–21 Actual spending	2021–22 Actual spending	2022–23 Planned spending	2022–23 Total authorities available for use	2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used)	Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned)
Total grants	176,300	156,200	200,000	250,000	191,979	(8,022)
Total contributions	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total other types of transfer payments	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total program	176,300	156,200	200,000	250,000	191,979	(8,022)
Explanation of variances	N/A – Less than 10%

International Telecommunication Union

Start date	1932–33
End date	Ongoing
Type of transfer payment	Grant
Type of appropriation	Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions	2010–11
Link to departmental result(s)	Canadian businesses and industries are innovative and growing
Link to the department's Program Inventory	Spectrum and Telecommunications
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program	ISED leads the Government of Canada's engagement in the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). Canada is bound by its treaty obligations to participate in the ITU, in conformity with the ITU Constitution and Convention. The ITU is the United Nations specialized agency responsible for information and communication technologies, coordinating the global development of telecommunications and is the multilateral forum overseeing the use of the radio frequency spectrum. Payment of annual membership fees is a binding, treaty-based obligation of membership. ISED leads Canada's participation and membership in the ITU to facilitate the continued growth, innovation and international competitiveness of Canada's telecommunication sector.
Results achieved	At the September 2022 ITU Plenipotentiary Conference, Canada secured re-election to the ITU Council and saw Ms. Chantal Beaumier re-elected to the ITU Radio Regulations Board. Canada advocated for the multistakeholder Internet governance model and supported measures strengthening ITU's oversight and transparency. Canada promoted youth engagement, sponsoring 30 youth from developing nations to shape their digital future. At the ITU World Telecommunication Development Conference (WTDC), Canada achieved 91% adoption of its 30 Inter-American Proposals (IAPs) and secured the Kigali Action Plan adoption, aligned with Canadian interests, including the exclusion of a specific Thematic Priority on Cybersecurity. In preparation for the 2023 ITU World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC-23), Canada successfully advanced its positions in the Conference Preparatory Meeting, ensuring preferred methods were included in the CPM Report, fostering collaboration with other delegations.
Findings of audits completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–2023	The sole recipient of the grant is the ITU, the United Nations specialized agency for telecommunications.

Financial information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment	2020–21 Actual spending	2021–22 Actual spending	2022–23 Planned spending	2022–23 Total authorities available for use	2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used)	Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned)
Total grants	5,008,000	4,808,000	4,808,000	4,808,000	4,808,000	0
Total contributions	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total other types of transfer payments	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total program	5,008,000	4,808,000	4,808,000	4,808,000	4,808,000	0
Explanation of variances	N/A – Less than 10%

Internal Trade Secretariat Corporation

Start date	2000–01
End date	Ongoing
Type of transfer payment	Grant
Type of appropriation	Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions	2015–16
Link to departmental result(s)	Businesses, investors and consumers are confident in the Canadian marketplace, including the digital economy
Link to the department's Program Inventory	Marketplace Protection and Promotion
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program	Internal Trade Secretariat Corporation (ITSC) ISED's Internal Trade Directorate was transferred to Privy Council Office (PCO) in 2018. As a Party to the Canadian Free Trade Agreement (CFTA) that came into force in 2017, the federal government is to contribute to the annual Operating Plan and Budget of the ITSC. ISED delivers this funding on behalf of PCO through a Grant Agreement with the ITSC. The CFTA is an intergovernmental internal trade agreement. The purpose of the CFTA is to reduce and eliminate, to the extent possible, barriers to the free movement of persons, goods, services and investment within Canada and to establish an open, efficient and stable domestic market The ITSC provides administrative and operational support to the Committee on Internal Trade (CIT), to its Chair and to other committees or working groups established under the CFTA or by the CIT. The Secretariat also supports the CIT in preparing reports, compiling and disseminating information from parties and ensuring appropriate support for the dispute resolution process. As a neutral third party, the Secretariat has facilitated ongoing negotiations to broaden and deepen the scope of the CFTA. The federal contribution is 50 per cent of the funding while provinces and territories contribute the remaining 50 per cent in proportion to their respective populations. The current agreement was signed on April 1, 2020, and is valid for five years. Further to this, Budget 2021 allowed for additional funding of the ITSC of $740k over five years, starting with an instalment of $100K in 2022–2023.
Results achieved	The Secretariat continued to support the functioning of the CFTA in 2022–2023. Operational Services Provided administrative and operational support for over 100 videoconferences and three in-person meetings of the CIT, the ITSC Board of Directors, the ITR table and various CFTA-related working groups and committees, including negotiations on non-medical cannabis and financial services and the conclusion of work on the Task Force to Develop an Implementation Roadmap for direct-to-consumer sales of alcohol. Administrative Services Prepared the 2022–2023 Annual Operating Plan and Budget and corresponding Party invoices. Assisted in the preparation of the 2021-2022 audited financial statements. Implemented the new policy of hybrid remote work arrangements. Dispute Resolution Services Monitored and tracked the status of disputes under the CFTA. Maintained the roster of panelists, the roster of appellate panelists, and the roster of Annex 309 panelists. Information Services Assisted the Regulatory Reconciliation and Cooperation Table (RCT) Goods and Services Working Group in developing a request for information/request for proposal for a research project related to Item 30 of the RCT Work Plan. Communications Services Supported the development of new information materials, including news releases about the CFTA, including the RCT, on the CFTA website. Responded to inquiries from Parties, various organizations, and the general public on various issues related to internal trade.
Findings of audits completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–2023	The ITSC is the sole recipient for this grant. As such, there are no other applicants or recipients to engage.

Financial information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment	2020–21 Actual spending	2021–22 Actual spending	2022–23 Planned spending	2022–23 Total authorities available for use	2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used)	Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned)
Total grants	375,000	375,000	375,000	475,000	475,000	100,000
Total contributions	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total other types of transfer payments	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total program	375,000	375,000	375,000	475,000	475,000	100,000
Explanation of variances	New funding received in-year from Budget 2021 to identify internal barriers to trade in Canada and accelerate the pace at which they are removed.

National Center for Indigenous Law at the University of Victoria

Start date	July 23, 2019
End date	August 31, 2024
Type of transfer payment	Contribution
Type of appropriation	Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions	There are no terms and conditions. The Contribution Agreement itself serves as the mechanism to govern the contribution.
Link to departmental result(s)	Canadian science, technology and innovation (STIn) research contributes to knowledge transfer
Link to the department's Program Inventory	Science and Research
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program	Budget 2019 provided $9.1M to support construction of the Centre for Indigenous Law support construction of the Centre for Indigenous Law at the University of Victoria. This was in response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, specifically Action #50: "In keeping with the United National Declaration on Rights of the Indigenous Peoples, we call upon the federal government, in collaboration with Aboriginal organizations, to fund the establishment of Indigenous law institutes for the development, use and understanding of Indigenous laws and access to justice in accordance with the unique cultures of Aboriginal peoples in Canada". The creation of the world's first national Centre for Indigenous Law fills an important gap within the Canadian and international landscape. The Centre will be hosted by the University of Victoria and be home to the Indigenous Law Research Unit and the Juris Doctor/Juris Indigenarum degrees (JD/JID – Canadian Common Law and Indigenous Legal
Results achieved	Construction of the National Centre for Indigenous Law is well underway. Ongoing engagement and relations with local First Nations remains a priority for the University of Victoria, including a construction celebration event held on March 9, 2023 with local First Nations, other stakeholders and partners to mark the progress. The university also continues to investigate Indigenous employment partnerships through the construction phase.
Findings of audits completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–2023	As the University of Victoria is the single recipient, ISED maintains an ongoing dialogue, and collects data from the recipient on a quarterly basis (e.g., total and eligible expenditures incurred, progress on construction, data related to employment, and meeting cost sharing targets).

Financial information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment	2020–21 Actual spending	2021–22 Actual spending	2022–23 Planned spending	2022–23 Total authorities available for use	2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used)	Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned)
Total grants	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total contributions	314,613	280,216	7,462,900	6,462,900	1,515,636	(5,947,264)
Total other types of transfer payments	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total program	314,613	280,216	7,462,900	6,462,900	1,515,636	(5,947,264)
Explanation of variances	Variance represents unused funding as the project experienced some early-phase challenges. To ensure consultative due diligence with First Nations communities and more rigorous Request for Proposal development, an extension of 11 months was sought and approved. The unused funding will be moved to 2024–25.

Organisation for Economic Co-Operation and Development

Start date	2009-10
End date	2023-2024
Type of transfer payment	Grant
Type of appropriation	Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions	2009-10
Link to departmental result(s)	Canadian science, technology and innovation (STIn) research contributes to knowledge transfer
Link to the department's Program Inventory	Science and Research
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program	The Organisation for Economic Co-Operation and Development (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.
Results achieved	In 2022–23, the OECD Grants program provided funds to support the work of two OCED Forums and a research project aligned to ISED's mandate and priorities, as follows: OCED Forums: The OECD Global Forum on Steel Excess Capacity (GFSEC) supported efforts to address the effect of global steel overcapacity. The GFSEC has and continues to support activities, including developing and implementing information-sharing mechanisms; forecasting long-term steel demand and preparation of a report on long-run steel demand; communicating and disseminating information, including maintenance of the GFSEC website and internal information-sharing platform; preparation meetings including logistics, travel and all related supporting documentation; and, collaborate and plan regular events with industry stakeholders. Key thematic presentations delivered in 2021 included the impact of restructuring on steel communities, steel overcapacity and climate change, policies to support the steel industry in transition to climate neutrality, and seeking carbon neutrality by 2050. The OECD Tourism Committee supported guidance on country policy formulation and implementation, share innovative policies and instruments, and strengthen evidence-based analysis and policy performance through the provision of robust, comparable and timely data on tourism services. This included developing reports on Tourism Trends and Policies and supporting the transition to a green tourism economy. OCED Research Projects: Supporting the OECD Committee for Scientific and Technological Policy, specifically a cross-cutting project "Societies in Times of Crisis". This project focused on delivering analysis to improve the responsiveness and resilience of science, technology, and innovation systems globally to future crises, and will offer operational guidance for governments to recover from and adapt to systemic shocks to science, technology, and innovation systems.
Findings of audits completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–2023	The OECD Grants Program is a single recipient program, with all grants going to the OECD.

Financial information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment	2020–21 Actual spending	2021–22 Actual spending	2022–23 Planned spending	2022–23 Total authorities available for use	2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used)	Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned)
Total grants	610,991	447,911	632,000	339,180	335,051	(296,949)
Total contributions	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total other types of transfer payments	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total program	610,991	447,911	632,000	339,180	335,051	(296,949)
Explanation of variances	Variance represents an internal transfer allocated in-year to Innovative Solutions Canada to meet the program's requirements in 2022-23.

Praxis Spinal Cord Institute

Start date	April 1, 2022
End date	March 31, 2024
Type of transfer payment	Contribution
Type of appropriation	Annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions	There are no terms and conditions; the Contribution Agreement itself serves as the mechanism to govern the contribution.
Link to departmental result(s)	Canadian science, technology and innovation research contributes to knowledge transfer
Link to the department's Program Inventory	Science and Research (Department of Industry).
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program	The purpose of the contribution is to provide financial assistance to the Praxis Spinal Cord Institute for the purpose of increasing collaboration in spinal cord injury research, innovation and care, and accelerate the translation of discoveries and best practices into improved treatments. Objectives include: developing and enhancing knowledge and skills on spinal cord injury; producing and using scientific research on spinal cord injury; academic, public, and private sector collaboration on spinal cord injury projects; new or innovative products, tools and processes, and the development / retention of highly qualified personnel result from funded spinal cord injury research projects; and, scientific research and innovation on spinal cord injury produces socio-economic benefits.
Results achieved	In 2022-23, Praxis supported 79 individuals who have developed new skills and the publication of 17 articles on spinal cord injury in peer-reviewed journals. It also supported 17 research and development collaborations, the creation of 35 jobs for highly qualified personnel. Additionally, Praxis supported two products, processes, services or technologies ready for use, including, novel devices, therapeutics, services or other technologies that enter the Canadian market.
Findings of audits completed in 2022–2023	N/A, new program.
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–2023	N/A, new program.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022-23	As a single recipient contribution, ISED maintains an ongoing dialogue with the recipient and reviews the Corporate Plan and Annual Report submitted each year to track progress towards that achievement of expected results and compliance with the terms and conditions of the contribution agreement.

Financial information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment	2020–21 Actual spending	2021–22 Actual spending	2022–23 Planned spending	2022–23 Total authorities available for use	2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used)	Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned)
Total grants	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total contributions	0	0	0	4,900,000	4,900,000	4,900,000
Total other types of transfer payments	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total program	0	0	0	4,900,000	4,900,000	4,900,000
Explanation of variances	New funding received in year from an off-cycle decision to increase collaboration in spinal cord injury research, innovation and care, and accelerate the translation of discoveries and best practices into improved treatments.

Program for Non-profit Consumer and Voluntary Organizations

Start date	1997 (in its current form)
End date	Ongoing
Type of transfer payment	Contribution
Type of appropriation	Appropriated annually through the Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions	2018-19
Link to departmental result(s)	Businesses, investors and consumers are confident in the Canadian marketplace, including the digital economy
Link to the department's Program Inventory	Marketplace Protection and Promotion
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program	The program aims to strengthen the consumer's role in the marketplace through support to non-profit consumer advocacy organizations to undertake research and analysis on emerging consumer protection issues, and by encouraging the financial self-sufficiency of consumer and voluntary organizations.
Results achieved	Through this program, ISED supported 15 consumer advocacy organizations across Canada to undertake 19 consumer research projects spanning 2021–22 and 2022–23 fiscal year. Funding also supported 4 consumer advocacy organizations to undertake work to strengthen capacity building. Research projects focus on a range of issues including: Digital Consumer Protection; Systemic Barriers and Other Risks to Vulnerable Consumers; Consumers and the financial sector; and Emerging Issues due to COVID-19. Research reports made possible through this funding will help to inform government policy making with respect to consumer protection and awareness to ensure the consumer interest is represented in the decision-making process.
Findings of audits completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–2023	ISED officials regularly engaged with program recipients to establish agreements and monitor projects, providing advice and guidance, as needed, with respect to program requirements. This also provided an opportunity for recipients to provide feedback about the program.

Financial information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment	2020–21 Actual spending	2021–22 Actual spending	2022–23 Planned spending	2022–23 Total authorities available for use	2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used)	Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned)
Total grants	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total contributions	1,677,178	1,689,800	1,690,000	1,690,000	1,689,412	(588)
Total other types of transfer payments	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total program	1,677,178	1,689,800	1,690,000	1,690,000	1,689,412	(588)
Explanation of variances	N/A – Less than 10%

Radio Advisory Board of Canada

Start date	Circa 1944
End date	Ongoing
Type of transfer payment	Grant
Type of appropriation	Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions	2018–19
Link to departmental result(s)	Canadian businesses and industries are innovative and growing
Link to the department's Program Inventory	Spectrum and Telecommunications
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program	To enable the Radio Advisory Board of Canada (RABC) to provide advice and make recommendations on the technical standards for radiocommunication and telecommunication apparatus.
Results achieved	The RABC continued to: Provide a forum for the discussion, development and consolidation of expert technical position and advice related to radio communication issues; Develop broad-based, unbiased technical expert advice on standards, guidelines, procedures, and policies relating to technical issues and technical considerations of spectrum management and usage, as well as the administration of national radio communications; Develop and maintain a membership that fully represents the radio communications community in Canada, including broadcasters, carriers and commercial service providers, experimenters, manufacturers, national security and public safety agencies, public utilities, and the scientific community; and, Invite non-members to participate in discussions when appropriate in order to ensure the Board's advice represents the radio communications community as fully as possible.
Findings of audits completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–2023	The RABC is the sole, eligible recipient of this grant. The Department works with RABC through the participation of an ex officio board member, co-leading technical working groups, and participation in quarterly meetings.

Financial information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment	2020–21 Actual spending	2021–22 Actual spending	2022–23 Planned spending	2022–23 Total authorities available for use	2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used)	Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned)
Total grants	111,000	111,000	140,000	139,000	111,000	(29,000)
Total contributions	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total other types of transfer payments	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total program	111,000	111,000	140,000	139,000	111,000	(29,000)
Explanation of variances	Amount too low – no explanation required.

Strategic Activities Program

Start date	January 2022
End date	October 2022
Type of transfer payment	Contribution
Type of appropriation	Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions	2021–22 & 2022–23
Link to departmental result(s)	Canadian businesses and industries are innovative and growing
Link to the department's Program Inventory	Science and Research Business Innovation
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program	The Strategic Activities Program (SAP) is a non-repayable contribution program. It has the objective of enabling the Department to support initiatives that are consistent with the Department's mandate and that are important in achieving departmental objectives and priorities. The SAP is available to all sectors within ISED. Initiatives align with one or more departmental program activities to support the achievement of departmental Strategic Outcomes. These initiatives cover activities such as events, educational materials events, web platform, workshops, conferences and research studies that will contribute to ISED's mandate to help make Canadians more productive, innovative and competitive in the knowledge-based economy, thus improving the standard of living and quality of life in Canada. SAP is an unfunded program. Eligible recipients are legal entities, research and charitable institutions, and, in exceptional cases, provincial territorial and municipal agencies or corporations. The maximum contribution per project will normally be the lesser of $3M and 100% of eligible project costs.
Results achieved	Aerospace Industries Association of Canada The Aerospace Industries Association of Canada (AIAC) completed its project on December 15, 2022. The project helped the AIAC to examine options and potential for a national aerospace innovation network in Canada. All project requirements were fulfilled in accordance with the contribution agreement. Quantum Industry Canada (QIC) The Quantum Industry Canada (QIC) 2022–23 progress reports will be received in November 2023 as per the monitoring/deliverables schedule set in the funding agreement. However, the project activities outlined below are being monitored and are on track: Build awareness of the overall Canadian quantum ecosystem to increase membership and industry participation; Raise funds to ensure that QIC becomes a sustainable industry organization that benefits all members; Establish working groups and maintain their productivity and contributions to both QIC and Canada's overall goals; Liaise with other international industry bodies focused on quantum computing, quantum communication and cryptography, quantum sensing and quantum-safe cryptography; Represent member interests in work on quantum standards or strategies; and Organize member meetings to ensure all interests are reflected with increasing QIC membership.
Findings of audits completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–2023	Quantum Industry Canada: ISED engages with QIC on a regular basis to discuss project progress. QIC is expected to submit biannual progress reports to ISED throughout the project period, as well as a final report upon project completion. Aerospace Industries Association of Canada: ISED engages with the AIAC on a regular basis to discuss project progress. In addition, ISED is expected to participate in the AIAC's national consultation process as an observer. The AIAC is expected to submit quarterly progress reports to ISED throughout the project period, as well as a final report upon project completion.

Financial information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment	2020–21 Actual spending	2021–22 Actual spending	2022–23 Planned spending	2022–23 Total authorities available for use	2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used)	Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned)
Total grants	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total contributions	0	843,035	427,333	688,001	688,001	260,668
Total other types of transfer payments	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total program	0	843,035	427,333	688,001	688,001	260,668
Explanation of variances	SAPs are funded from existing reference levels. Variance represents an internal transfer allocated in-year to support the Quantum Industry Canada and the Aerospace Industries Association of Canada Strategic Activity Programs (SAP).

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 departmental result(s)	Canadian businesses and industries are innovative and growing
Link to the department's Program Inventory	Business Innovation
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program	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.
Results achieved	Consolidated into SIF July 5, 2017
Findings of audits completed in 2022–2023	An audit is planned for 2025–26.
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2022–2023	ISED maintains extensive engagements with industries, businesses and associations as well as with other federal departments and agencies, providing opportunities for feedback.

Financial information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment	2020–21 Actual spending	2021–22 Actual spending	2022–23 Planned spending	2022–23 Total authorities available for use	2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used)	Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned)
Total grants	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total contributions	28,029,428	10,236,218	1,535,145	2,833,359	2,833,359	1,298,214
Total other types of transfer payments	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total program	28,029,428	10,236,218	1,535,145	2,833,359	2,833,359	1,298,214
Explanation of variances	Legacy Program

Support for Women Entrepreneurs Program – Women Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub

Start date	October 18, 2018
End date	Women Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub (WEKH) – March 31, 2024
Type of transfer payment	Contribution
Type of appropriation	Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions	2018–19
Link to departmental result(s)	People and communities from all segments of Canadian society participate in the economy
Link to the department's Program Inventory	Support for Underrepresented Entrepreneurs
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program	The Women Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub will serve as a one-stop source of knowledge, data and best practices for women entrepreneurs. It will deliver a number of activities intended to support the advancement of women entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds throughout the innovation ecosystem, such as: Report on the progress of women entrepreneurs in Canada, including a measure or review of the entrepreneurship ecosystem supports for women in Canada; Collecting, analyzing, and disseminating information; Advancing research on women's entrepreneurship; and Supporting and sharing best practices and knowledge among women business support organizations.
Results achieved	The WEKH has continued to play a central role in the collection of data, research and sharing of best practices within the women entrepreneurship ecosystem. Among other achievements, the Government awarded an additional $5 million for the Women Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub (WEKH) to advance its research and expand tools and resources to support diverse women entrepreneurs in August of 2021. The WEKH website has been enhanced, so users can now browse an extensive library of research comprised of over 2,000 resources. Further, the WEKH participated in, or co-sponsored, 1,070 events in 2022–23 attended by more than 31,850 participants. The WEKH Sharing Platform, an informal platform connecting women entrepreneurs and business support organizations, had 2,349 active users in 2022–23. In March 2023, WEKH hosted an International Women's Day event in Ottawa, attended by more than 140 stakeholders from across Canada, and held a hybrid event to preview key findings from The State of Women's Entrepreneurship in Canada 2023 (SOWE 2023). The 'See It. Be It.' Database, initially launched on the WEKH website in March 2021, features bilingual profiles of over 2,000 diverse, award-winning Canadian women entrepreneurs from a wide range of industries, sectors, stages of business and geographic regions. In 2022–23, profiles for 1,800 women were added to the database. Since the launch, the 'See It. Be It.' Database has been viewed 3,469 times in English and in French. As of March, 31, 2023, over 3,000 organizations serving women entrepreneurs have been engaged in WEKH's network, including 440 women-centric business support organizations, 602 organizations serving Francophone women entrepreneurs and 280 organizations directly serving Indigenous women entrepreneurs.
Findings of audits completed in 2022–2023	N/A
Findings of evaluations completed in 2022–2023	An evaluation of the Women's Entrepreneurship Strategy (RDA-delivered initiatives) is planned in 2023–24 and an evaluation of the Women's Entrepreneurship Strategy (ISED-delivered initiatives) is planned in 2024–25.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2021-2022	ISED held bi-monthly meetings with the Women Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub (WEKH) on a variety of topics including gaps or issues identified within the ecosystem, planned/proposed areas of research and annual conference planning. These discussions enabled WEKH to best target resources and ISED to consider areas for future program/policy development. ISED also served as a reviewer of 12 WEKH research paper drafts (prior to publication).

Financial information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment	2020–21 Actual spending	2021–22 Actual spending	2022–23 Planned spending	2022–23 Total authorities available for use	2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used)	Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned)
Total grants	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total contributions	3,750,187	2,800,000	2,800,000	2,800,000	2,800,000	0
Total other types of transfer payments	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total program	3,750,187	2,800,000	2,800,000	2,800,000	2,800,000	0
Explanation of variances	N/A – Less than 10%

Telesat Low Earth Orbit Capacity (LEO)

Start date	December 31, 2026
End date	December 31, 2030
Type of transfer payment	Funding agreement
Type of appropriation	Subject to appropriation
Fiscal year for terms and conditions	No terms and conditions. Only what is set out in the funding agreement.
Link to departmental result(s)	People and communities from all segments of Canadian society participate in the economy
Link to the department's Program Inventory	Bridging Digital Divides
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program	ISED has secured advanced, new, low-latency Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite capacity with Telesat to bring reliable high-speed Internet access to the most rural and remote regions of Canada.
Results achieved	The Government of Canada has invested $600 million to secure capacity on Telesat's Low Earth Orbit satellite constellation, Telesat Lightspeed Telesat has pushed the date that its constellation will enter service to 2026 due to inflation and supply chain issues. ISED is monitoring this situation closely and considering how it may impact the government's connectivity targets. Other LEO satellite constellations, including Starlink, One Web and Kuiper, are at various stages of development and deployment around the world – with some services already available.
Findings of audits completed in 2021-2022	N/A
Findings of evaluations completed in 2021-2022	An evaluation is planned in 2026–27.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2021-2022	ISED maintains extensive engagements with industries, businesses and associations as well as with other federal departments and agencies, providing opportunities for feedback.

Financial information (dollars)
Type of transfer payment	2020–21 Actual spending	2021–22 Actual spending	2022–23 Planned spending	2022–23 Total authorities available for use	2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used)	Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned)
Total grants	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total contributions	0	0	60,000,000	60,000,000	0	(60,000,000)
Total other types of transfer payments	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total program	0	0	60,000,000	60,000,000	0	(60,000,000)
Explanation of variances	Variance represents unused funding, which has been moved to future years, to align the funding profile with the cashflow forecasts, and allow ISED to respect the funding agreement with Telesat.

Upskilling for Industry Initiative

Start date	April 1, 2022
End date	March 31, 2025
Type of transfer payment	Contribution Agreement
Type of appropriation	Appropriated annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions	2022–2023
Link to departmental result(s)	Canadian businesses and industries are innovative and growing
Link to the department's Program Inventory	Talent Development
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program	The Upskilling for Industry Initiative (UII) is aimed at scaling up employer-driven approaches to upskill and redeploy workers to meet the needs of growing industries. The UII aims to enable skills ecosystem that is more responsive to employers' need and thus supporting growth and innovation.
Results achieved	In February 2023, Palette Skills was selected as a lead recipient of the Upskilling for Industry Initiative. As such, it is anticipated that program will commence delivering training to workers in Summer 2023, with initial results expected as early as Fall 2023.
Findings of audits completed in 2021-2022	N/A
Findings of evaluations completed in 2021-2022	N/A
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2021-2022	ISED maintains extensive engagements with industries, businesses and associations as well as with other federal departments and agencies, providing opportunities for feedback.

Type of transfer payment	2020–21 Actual spending	2021–22 Actual spending	2022–23 Planned spending	2022–23 Total authorities available for use	2022–23 Actual spending (authorities used)	Variance (2022–23 actual minus 2022–23 planned)
Total grants	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total contributions	0	0	23,879,766	23,879,766	1,732,402	(22,147,364)
Total other types of transfer payments	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total program	0	0	23,879,766	23,879,766	1,732,402	(22,147,364)
Explanation of variances	Variance represents unused funding resulting from a lengthy application review process leading to the selection of the sole recipient, Palette Skills, in February 2023. Funding will be moved to future years to ensure the chosen recipient can benefit from the full funding envelope.

Gender-based analysis plus

Section 1: Institutional GBA Plus Capacity

Over the last few years, the federal government has been increasingly prioritizing gender equality, diversity and inclusion with strengthened accountability mechanisms, which have influenced progress on the integration of GBA+ considerations at ISED. This has provided levers while at the same time significantly increasing demand from across the Department for GBA+ support, such as the inclusion of GBA+ into the departmental results framework, budget proposals, Memorandum to Cabinets, and Treasury Board Submissions.

Governance

ISED has a strong governance structure to guide how GBA Plus is integrated into internal operations. The ISED GBA Plus Champion is a senior executive and the DG responsible for strategic policy within the department, the ISED GBA Plus Focal Point and team performs a challenge function and is situated within a strategic policy unit, and the ISED/Portfolio GBA Plus Network has broad and diverse representatives from across the organization. This governance structure was designed and implemented in a manner consistent with the Department of Women and Gender Equality Canada's (WAGE) advice for achieving sustainable use of GBA Plus. The result of this structure is a clear and transparent internal process to support that GBA Plus is well integrated into various activities and initiatives, as per the government's directives and requirements.

Changes to Governance Structure/Resourcing Levels

In 2022-23, there were several noteworthy changes that support GBA Plus across ISED and the Portfolio. To better support GBA Plus across ISED and the Portfolio, including the development of a departmental Diversity and Inclusion Governance Structure, the appointment of a new GBA Plus Champion along with the pre-existing GBA Plus team within the strategic policy unit, these efforts were leveraged and built upon in 2022 through such initiatives as the expansion of the GBA Plus Network and by linking GBA Plus to equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI).

Firstly, the GBA Plus Network was expanded in 2022 to include more members which served to enhance the reach and scope of GBA Plus to better support GBA Plus across the entirety of the departmental and Portfolio. The GBA Plus Network is now comprised of a community of practice of dedicated and knowledgeable advisors representing the breadth of the department and Portfolio, with strong leadership and direction to guide its work, including through the GBA Plus Annual Report.

Secondly, the GBA Plus team collaborated and engaged in 2022 within ISED to make linkages between GBA Plus and EDI. This included providing input and support to ensure that GBA Plus elements were incorporated and considered in the design and development of the ISED EDI Strategy, including the January 2023 Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Summit, led by the Diversity and Inclusion Team (DIT). This also was reflected in the 2022-2023 GBA Plus Annual Report. Making the connection between GBA Plus and EDI served to highlight the importance of intersectional analysis to better recognize the diversity of lived experiences, and ultimately the public policies that ISED and the Portfolio design and administer.

Initiatives

GBA Plus Annual Report

The major project for 2022 was the creation and completion of the second GBA Plus Annual Report. This report provides both an overview of GBA Plus priorities and activities in 2022-23, and a forward plan for GBA Plus to continue to evolve to be a strong and effective tool within ISED and Portfolio going forward. The report has been shared across ISED and the Portfolio, and with other networks and departments across government.

GBA Plus Network Refresh

The ISED GBA Plus Network is comprised of a dedicated network, with strong leadership and direction, of knowledgeable in–house advisors and creative and passionate network members who participate in GBA Plus work and discussions. In 2020–21 the GBA Plus Network was refreshed and began to meet monthly to determine new goals and approaches to supporting GBA Plus work at ISED. This refresh continued in 2022–23 through several initiatives including:

GBA Plus Network Expansion
Expanded and broadened the GBA Plus Network to include greater representation across the department and Portfolio in order to ensure a diverse membership that reflects the breadth of policy and program areas. Network membership was also expanded to include both members wishing to work on GBA Plus specifically and those whose interest is more broadly focused on EDI at ISED and Portfolio. A broad and representative GBA Plus Network supports the goal of strengthening GBA Plus by drawing on the full range of perspectives, viewpoints, skills, and talents from all levels and sectors at ISED and the Portfolio.
Developing GBA Plus Tools and Training
Informed by the findings of a survey of the GBA Plus Network, training continued to be a clear area of focus. Training and tools continued to be offered and/or developed for a variety of audiences, ranging from beginners to experts. Progress was made on this priority through several initiatives, including a new feedback tool, an updated GBA Plus questionnaire, and a guidance document. Additionally, the GBA Plus team collaborated with the Corporate Management Services Sector to develop guidance to provide ISED programs and policy leads best practices for data collection and performance reporting related to EDI for the purposes of GBA Plus. The objective is to build the knowledge-base required to understand the extent to which programs, policies and services are accessible to all Canadians, and whether programs and policies are having an equitable impact while striving to achieve Departmental Results.
Developing and Refreshing Awareness and Engagement Activities
Awareness and engagement activities are key ways to disseminate GBA Plus information and encourage discussion to support the ongoing development of GBA Plus strategies at ISED and the Portfolio. In 2023, focus was put on both in-person and virtual activities that were of interest to a wide variety of ISED and Portfolio employees, including activities such as the GBA Plus Awareness Week at ISED and the Portfolio, which included a keynote presentation about Equity in the Cleantech sector, a GBA Plus Hackathon competition, and a GBA Plus Trivia event.

Incorporating Intersectional Considerations

In consultation with the ISED and Portfolio GBA Plus Network and working with the DIT, the GBA Plus Team continued its focus in 2022 to make progress on incorporating intersectional perspectives into GBA Plus work. Progress was made on this priority through several initiatives, including monthly GBA Plus Network meetings with topics focused on intersectionality, working closely with the DIT on the EDI Summit, participating in the development of Equity Assessment Project, incorporating intersectionality into the GBA Plus challenge function and supporting documents, and developing training and support for considering intersectionality.

These initiatives are advancing GBA Plus research and analysis capacity while strengthening the understanding of the benefits of a deliberate and systematic approach to incorporating such analysis into policy and program design.

Section 2: Gender and Diversity Impacts, by Program

Core Responsibility: People, Skills and the Community

Bridging Digital Divides

Target Population:

All Canadians, Diverse, Youth or Women Underrepresented Entrepreneurs

Program Goals:

Bridging Digital Divides focuses on closing the connectivity gap among the Canadian population by providing access to Internet and tools to stay connected in rural and remote regions, as well as to promote reliable and efficient access for all Canadians, especially to increasingly support the underrepresented groups.

Target Population:

All Canadians, as well as Specific Demographic Groups: libraries, not-for-profits, Indigenous communities and individuals, low-income Canadians, youth, and official language minority communities (OLMC), underrepresented groups, including persons with disabilities, senior citizens, newcomers to Canada, residents living in rural and remote regions, etc.

Distribution of Benefits:

By gender: Broadly balanced

By Income level: Strongly Benefits low income individuals (Strongly progressive)

By age group: No significant inter-generational impacts or impacts generation between youth and seniors

Specific Demographics Group Outcomes:

Through the Bridging Digital Divides Program, ISED focuses on fostering an inclusive Canadian economy, specifically by delivering various resources and supporting tools to underrepresented groups while growing Canada's digital economy.

Bridging Digital Divides directly benefits underrepresented groups, such as, but not limited to, persons with disabilities, Indigenous Peoples, individuals who do not speak English or French at home, seniors, individuals who have not completed high school, individuals who have low income, residents of rural and remote areas, newcomers to Canada, and Canadians from Official Language Minority Communities by enabling them to participate in the digital economy.

Altogether, the program prioritizes fostering an inclusive and representative modern digital workforce for Canadians by focusing on eliminating the digital divide and addressing gaps in connectivity and Internet access that underrepresented groups may face in the digital economy. Programs such as the Digital Literacy Exchange Program (DLEP), the Accessible Technology Program (ATP), and Computers for Schools Plus (CFS+) target specific demographic groups by providing training opportunities, tools and resources for underrepresented groups to have the skills and supports to participate in the digital workforce. While programs such as Connecting Families Initiative (CFI), Connect to Innovate (CTI), Low Earth Orbit (LEO), and the Universal Broadband Fund (UBF) serve to increase connectivity among remote, rural, and underrepresented communities in order to further bridge the digital divide gap by bringing reliable and high-speed Internet access to these regions and provide mobile connectivity to those in need.

Key Impacts:

-	Statistics	Observed Results^{Footnote *}	Data Source	Comment
DLEP	N/A	N/A	N/A	No results to report as funding agreements expired at the end of 21-22 and were not renewed until the end of 22-23.
Connecting Families Initiative	-	-	Program data	85,354 low-income families receiving the maximum Canada Child Benefit (CCB) and low-income seniors receiving the maximum Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) are participating in the Connecting Families initiative, an increase of 10,214 since March 31, 2022. However, for privacy reasons, ISED is not able to identify the individuals receiving these income tested benefits so we cannot collect GBA+ statistics.
Accessible Technology Program	N/A	N/A	N/A	None
Computers for Schools Plus	N/A	N/A	N/A	None
Connect to Innovate	Indigenous Communities	116	This report tracks the status of CTI projects by contribution agreement (CA).	Target is 190
Low Earth Orbit	Households served by Telesat LEO	N/A	N/A	No results to report to date, as Telesat Lightspeed is targeting launch in 2026.
Universal Broadband Fund	Indigenous Households	8,749	Internal analysis	-
Universal Broadband Fund	Indigenous Communities	102	Internal inventory of indicators and results.	-
Footnote * 2022-23 or most recent Return to footnote * referrer

Other key program impacts on gender and diversity:

CTI benefits diverse groups of men and women in a similar manner and does not provide significant differential impact based on gender. It benefits all populations in rural and remote areas of Canada, including Indigenous populations and those with low to medium socio-economic status.

The expected direct benefits of the investments to secure capacity for up to 40,000 households on LEO's satellite constellation, Telesat Lightspeed, are gender balanced. Telesat Lightspeed targets satellite-dependent and remote communities, many of which are overwhelmingly Indigenous, and it is anticipated that Indigenous communities may reap increased direct benefit from these investments.

The direct benefits of the UBF are gender balanced. The UBF targets all rural and remote communities to bridge the digital divide that exists between urban areas, and rural, Indigenous, and Official Language Minority Communities (OLMC). For example, 99.2% of urban households currently have access to high-speed Internet, however this number drops to 62.8% for rural households, 44.4% for Indigenous households, and 96% for OLMCs (CRTC Communications Market Report, December 2021). This increased access for all Canadians will decrease inequalities and expand opportunities for disadvantaged groups (e.g. better access to telehealth and social services, increased ability to work remotely, reducing social isolation). Statistics Canada data also indicates that rural Canadians are more likely than urban Canadians to be Indigenous, to be part of an OLMC, to have lower education attainment rates, and, depending on the region, are more likely to be unemployed. For Canadians with disabilities, the Internet can provide a means of engaging with society and accessing services that would otherwise be prohibitive due to the nature of their disability. It may also contribute to economic development and vitality of rural communities. The UBF is directly contributing to Canada's Connectivity Goals of connecting 98% of Canadians by 2026 and 100% by 2030.

Supplementary Information Sources:

Connect to Innovate (CTI): Connect to Innovate Program – Project status updates

GBA Plus Data Collection Plan:

DLEP concluded new funding agreements with all organizations. GBA+ indicators have been integrated in the program performance indicators. The department will collect data on the demographic characteristics of participants each quarter, and closely monitor the data to ensure that the intended results are being achieved across the program.

ATP concluded new funding agreements with organizations. The department will not collect data on the demographic characteristics of end users of the technology solutions developed but will require funding recipients to report on engagements with stakeholder groups representing Canadians with disabilities through quarterly progress reports, to gain a better understanding of the specific needs, concerns and preferences of the target groups. The program will closely monitor this information along with the data on the number of assistive technology solutions developed to ensure that the intended results are being achieved across the program.

CTI collects data pertaining to Indigenous communities served by its broadband projects through mapping of Indigenous households as reported by Statistics Canada. Other groups are not tracked as it is relatively balanced within broadband.

LEO collects data pertaining to Indigenous communities served by its broadband projects through mapping of Indigenous households as reported by Statistics Canada. Other groups are not tracked as it is relatively balanced within broadband.

UBF collects data pertaining to Indigenous communities served by its broadband projects through mapping of Indigenous households as reported by Statistics Canada. The CRTC collects data on rural households connected as well as OLMCs. Gender is not tracked as it is relatively balanced within broadband.

Support for Underrepresented Groups

Program Goals:

The Support for Underrepresented Entrepreneurs Program promotes the growth and competitiveness of entrepreneurs, including under-represented groups in business and entrepreneurship to build a more inclusive economy.

Target Population:

All Canadians, Diverse, Youth or Women Underrepresented Entrepreneurs

Distribution of Benefits:

By gender: 60% to 79% men; broadly gender balanced; 60-79% women

By income level: no significant distributional impacts

By age group: primarily benefits youth, children or future generations; no significant intergenerational impacts of impacts on generations between youths and seniors

Specific Demographic Group Outcomes:

The Support for Underrepresented Groups Program is a broad program which encompasses multiple departmental initiatives that share the mutual goal of promoting an inclusive and representative economy for Canadians. This is achieved in part by working to remove barriers to equity, diversity and inclusion for groups that are underrepresented in the Canadian economy such as women, Indigenous Peoples, Black, racialized and/or people of colour, and 2SLGBTQI+ individuals. Through initiatives including the Black Entrepreneurship Program, the 50-30 Challenge, Futurpreneur, and the Women's Entrepreneurship Strategy, ISED provides financial resources, opportunities, mentorship, training and/or support tools that directly benefit these underrepresented groups to participate in the entrepreneurial ecosystem and the economy as a whole. Programs within this category also benefit businesses owned by racialized persons and other equity-deserving groups by supporting SMEs and entrepreneurs, providing access to government funding, and enabling them to build their capacity to serve clients.

ISED works with partner organizations to establish collaborations across academia and underrepresented communities, as well as the public and private sector to produce socio-economic benefits at the individual level. Through the program, ISED focuses on fostering an inclusive environment for SMEs.

Key Impacts:

-	Statistics	Observed Results^{Footnote *}	Data Source	Comment
CDAP Stream 1- Grow Your Business Online	Distribution of small businesses who have signed a grant agreement by diversity and inclusion groups	Women: 30% Racialized Persons: 22% Newcomers to Canada: 4% 2SLGBTQI+: 3% Persons with Disabilities: 2% Indigenous Persons: 2%	Program data	-
Futurpreneur Canada	Supported businesses that are women-led	44%	Futurpreneur Canada	None
Futurpreneur Canada	Supported businesses that have Black founders	22%	Futurpreneur Canada	None
Futurpreneur Canada	Supported businesses that have Indigenous founders	4%	Futurpreneur Canada	None
SBEDP	Percentage of participating SMEs owned or led by youth	30%	Administrative data	Only includes TAP participants
SBEDP	Percentage of participating SMEs owned or led by visible minorities	20%	Administrative data	Only includes TAP participants
SBEDP	Percentage of participating SMEs owned or led by Indigenous Canadians	12%	Administrative data	Only includes TAP participants
WES	Number of women entrepreneurs who received loans through the Women Entrepreneurship Loan Fund	185	Loan administrators project management	Loans started to be made available to women entrepreneurs in May 2022
WES	Number of support organizations engaged in the Women Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub (WEKH) network	> 3,000	WEKH project management	The statistic reflects the number of support organizations engaged as of March 31, 2023. This engagement includes: 440 women-centric business support organizations 602 organizations serving Francophone women entrepreneurs 280 organizations directly serving Indigenous women entrepreneurs
WES	Number of women entrepreneurs supported through the WES Ecosystem Fund	26,462	Regional Development Agency (RDA) project management	The statistic reflects the number of women entrepreneurs supported through projects led by 2018 WES Ecosystem Fund recipients. All RDAs have reported data for this indicator. There is no common methodology used by RDAs to collect this data.
BEP	Loan amount disbursed to black entrepreneurs through the Black Entrepreneurship Loan Fund	$17 million	Loan administrators project management	$17 million was disbursed from April 1, 2022 to March 31, 2023
BEP	Number of black-owned businesses supported through the BEP Ecosystem Fund	5,083	Regional Development Agency (RDA) project management	The statistic reflects the number of black entrepreneurs supported through projects led by BEP Ecosystem Fund recipients. All RDAs reported data for this indicator, except CanNor that has no BEP project and FedNor, whose BEP project ends in March 2024 and so no data for this reporting cycle. There is no common methodology used by RDAs to collect this data.
Footnote * 2022-23 or most recent Return to footnote * referrer

Other key program impacts on gender and diversity:

To further support equity-deserving communities, Futurpreneur Canada has a Black Entrepreneur Startup Program (in partnership with RBC and BDC), an Indigenous Entrepreneur Startup Program, and partners with organizations that support women-led/owned businesses.

GBA Plus Data Collection Plan:

In 2022-23, ISED signed a Letter of Agreement with Statistics Canada regarding data on women/LGBTQ2+/Indigenous/Black entrepreneurs for the next iteration of the Survey of Financing and Growth of Small and Medium Enterprises. Statistics Canada will investigate the feasibility of being able to improve ownership data on these groups in the survey. Additionally, efforts are underway to address data gaps by including requirements for 2021 WES program recipients to collect disaggregated core indicator/administrative data by equity deserving group/sector/region, where possible.

The Canada Digital Adoption Program (Stream 1- Grow Your Business Online) collects data from its delivery partners, including EDI data regarding the small businesses supported and the E-commerce Advisors. Delivery partners administer surveys to supported businesses/hired ECAs in which they can voluntarily self-identify as part of an equity-deserving group and agree to have this information shared with ISED.

Futurpreneur Canada has a robust data tracking process provides real-time data and measures the mid- to long-term success of FC in comparison to benchmarks, allowing the program to better monitor and respond to future young entrepreneur needs.

The Small Business and Entrepreneurship Development Program (SBEDP) has implemented performance metrics, including aggregated demographic data, which will be collected and analyzed to better understand specific needs of various entrepreneurs and to inform ongoing service and program design.

Core Responsibility: Science, Technology, Research and Commercialization

Science and Research

Program Goals:

The Science and Research (S&R) program develops and implements of the Government of Canada's science and technology (S&T) policy agenda in order to foster an innovative and inclusive economy, improve the wealth and well-being of Canadians, and optimize federal investment in S&T. Throughout its activities, the S&R program actively seeks to raise awareness and implement GBA+ concepts within its array of deliverables relating to science, technology, research and its commercialization.

Target Population:

Higher education sector, Canadian research institutions and the scientific community

Distribution of Benefits:

By gender: broadly gender-balanced

By income level: no significant distributional impacts

By age group: no significant intergenerational impacts or impacts on generations between youths and seniors

Specific Demographic Group Outcomes:

The program benefits the broader Canadian population at large. It promotes inclusion and diversity through the respective programming of each initiative, including measures to integrate GBA+ considerations in award selection and investment review processes. The program provides training opportunities to diverse groups of men and women with considerations for inclusivity and may host events that include a focus on barriers to equity, diversity, and inclusion. There are no known negative impacts to any particular demographic group.

S&R positions the Government of Canada's science and technology policy agenda to foster an inclusive and innovative economy for the wealth and well-being of everyday Canadians. Programs like Genome Canada, Stem Cell Network, Canadian Institute for Advanced Research, and the Strategic Science Fund enable the development and commercialization of novel and exciting scientific innovations, as well as the development of diverse talent pools in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) across the country. These programs largely and directly benefit students, scientific researchers, and post-secondary institutions to drive sustainable economic development and expand Canada's scientific research and technology ecosystem.

Through the S&R Program, ISED and its partner organizations focus on delivering short and medium term outputs that involve training qualified personnel, the commercialization of innovations, and the utilization of scientific research outputs towards wider applications in science, research and business. ISED also works with partner organizations to establish and encourage collaborations across academia, as well as the public and private sector to produce socio-economic benefits both at the individual level and more broadly.

Funding agreements within the Science and Research Program equip researchers to pursue cutting-edge research targeted towards the health, well-being and prosperity of Canadians. These agreements provide training opportunities for highly-qualified personnel, and fund opportunities to scale research that expands scientific knowledge, skills, and infrastructure in Canada to facilitate the growth of businesses and industries, as well as maintain the country's reputation as a strong contributor to knowledge transfer in the field of science, technology, and innovation.

Key Impacts:

Statistics	Observed Results^{Footnote *}	Data Source	Comment
Percentage of new graduate students at the Institute for Quantum Computing (IQC) who are women	In 2022, 29% of new students were women (15/51)	IQC	-
Percentage of female-identifying attendees to the IQC Quantum School for Young Students workshop	In 2022, 47% of participants were women (71/152 female and 3 participants identifying as non-binary)	IQC	-
Percentage of female-identifying attendees to the IQC Schrödinger's Class workshop	In 2022, 49% of participants were women (19/39)	IQC	-
Annual number and cumulative total of Simons Emmy Noether Fellows (early- and mid-career women researchers) appointed by the Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics	In 2022-23, the Perimeter Institute appointed 11 new Simons Emmy Noether Fellows, for a total of 48 since the program's inception.	Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics	Preliminary data to be confirmed upon receipt of annual report, due to ISED on December 31, 2023
Percentage of students trained through Perimeter's PhD and Postdoctoral programs that are women or nonbinary persons	In 2022-23, women made up 24 percent of Perimeter's PhD program, and 32 percent of Perimeter's postdoc program (no nonbinary PhDs or postdocs at this time).	Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics	Preliminary data to be confirmed upon receipt of annual report, due to ISED on December 31, 2023
Percentage of students trained through the Perimeter Scholars International (PSI) Masters program who are women or nonbinary persons	In 2022-23, the Perimeter Scholars International master's program included 14 women, making up 54 percent of the cohort.	Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics	Preliminary data to be confirmed upon receipt of annual report, due to ISED on December 31, 2023
Percentage of participants in CIFAR research programs who identify as a member of one or more equity-deserving groups.	In 2022-23, 37.1% of researchers in CIFAR's Core programs identified as female or non-binary	CIFAR	Please note this is preliminary data
Percentage of Canada CIFAR Artificial Intelligence (AI) Chairs who identify as a member of one or more equity deserving groups	In 2022-23, 22.4% of Canada CIFAR AI Chairs identified as female or non-binary	CIFAR	Please note this is preliminary data
Percentage of early-career researchers participating in the CIFAR Azrieli Global Scholars program who identify as a member of one or more equity-deserving groups	In 2022-23, 53.1% of CIFAR's Azrieli Global Scholars identified as female or non-binary	CIFAR	Please note this is preliminary data
Percentage of adMare Academy trainees, by gender	47% female/53% male	adMare BioInnovations	Available data from 2021-22
Number and breakdown of Stem Cell Network highly qualified personnel trained, by gender and other underrepresented groups	632 trainees participated in a project or attended a training event in 2021-22: 56% women 38% men Less than 1% were non-binary / gender fluid 5% preferred no answer	Stem Cell Network	Available data from 2021-22
Percentage of researchers named on project proposals to the Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI) belonging to underrepresented groups	Women: 32.6% People with disabilities: 3.1% Indigenous peoples: 1.6% Visible minorities: 29.4%	CFI Award Management System (CAMS)	Available data from 2021-22
Percentage of applications to the CFI with project leaders from underrepresented groups that are awarded funding (i.e., success rate)	Women: 80.4% People with disabilities: 81.0% Indigenous peoples: 100% Visible minorities: 78.0%	CFI Award Management System (CAMS)	Available data from 2021-22
Footnote * 2022-23 or most recent Return to footnote * referrer

Other key program impacts on gender and diversity:

Genome Canada continued to advance its efforts towards intentionally and deliberately embedding EDI policies and practices across its operations, workforce, programs, policies and governance structures. This involved developing an inclusion, diversity, equity and accessibility strategy and roadmap, as well as the implementation of demographic tracking to establish a baseline against which to measure its progress in achieving greater EDI and accessibility among its applicants and peer-reviewers. Genome Canada continued its progress towards the 50-30 challenge by partnering on the second-ever Black Excellence in STEM event (supporting the research and careers of Black Canadians across a range of sectors), and continuing to maintain longstanding partnerships through strategic funding agreements to support Indigenous genomics in Canada.

The Stem Cell Network (SCN) requires that all proposed research projects be assessed with respect to how sex and gender have been considered in the research methodology. It has also began requiring applicants to take CIHR online courses on topics such as sex and gender in biomedical research, sex and gender in primary data collection with human participants and sex and gender in the analysis of secondary data from human participants.

The Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Advisory Committee on Diversity produced a series of podcasts on the theme of equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI), and worked on a procedural recommendation to recognize the heritage of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis candidates, and to honour their special status in the Foundation's selection process.

The Foundation continued to select a diverse group of scholars, fellows and mentors as well as requiring scholars to incorporate diversity as a central element of their Creative project (a third year project in which scholars must use elements of art to present and share their research in an innovative way). The foundation continued to promote bilingualism and the practice of Indigenous languages as well as organizing institutes in different and contrasting locations across Canada.

The Council of Canadian Academies' renewal process of their Scientific Advisory Committee improved its team composition to include 43% of members who identify as women and 50% of members who belong to an equity deserving group.

The CFI participated on three tri-agency EDI-related committees and ad hoc working groups. These included the tri-agency self-identification questionnaire working group which collaborated to ensure harmonized data collection on underrepresented groups across organizations. The organization also introduced a formal assessment of EDI-based "team composition" eliminatory criteria as part of the merit review process for its flagship program, the Innovation Fund. Additionally, the CFI also convened youth panels on EDI as part of the 2022 Federation for the Humanities and Social Sciences Congress and continued to work with Statistics Canada, ISED and granting agencies on the modernization of the University and College Academic Staff System (UCASS) survey to integrate EDI data.

The Digital Research Infrastructure (DRI) Contribution Program collaborated with working groups to establish EDI-related guidelines and metrics for the continuous evaluation of service provisions to different research segments. It also launched the Inclusive Culture Benchmark Survey which assesses cultural health through four domains, i.e., safety, belonging, inclusion and drive.

CANARIE continued to strive towards maintaining a gender balance amongst its board of directors, aiming for an equal distribution of men and women. The program also continued to use institutional EDI plans, as an adjudication criterion for funding selection. CANARIE has also been prioritizing the expansion of its national research and education network into Nunavut, working to reduce the digital divide present for rural and northern communities

Supplementary Information Sources:

CIFAR's EDI Action Plan

GBA Plus Data Collection Plan:

As part of contribution agreements with science research organizations, ISED requires that recipients submit, on an annual basis in their Corporate Plan, their planned activities to advance EDI, and report on the result of those activities in their Annual Report. Examples of activities include setting targets related to representation of diverse individuals on governance and scientific review committees; collecting self-identification data in support of EDI to track performance and understanding the impact of the program on diverse and underrepresented populations; and embedding EDI values in their hiring and training processes. Many organizations have gone beyond the requirements of their contribution agreement, including committing to and creating initiatives focused on underrepresented groups, such as summer internships for Indigenous Peoples in Genomics (SING), subscribing to the 50/30 Challenge, and setting up EDI committees within their organizations. In 2022-2023, the S&R program undertook important actions towards developing and improving their EDI-related data collection plans:

The SSF has integrated GBA+ indicators with its proposed program performance indicators. This includes requiring applicants to establish a credible plan to achieve 50% women and 30% significant representation of other under-represented groups within their senior management and board of directors. Overall, these changes were implemented to ensure that the overall organizational composition of SSF funded projects reflect ISED's EDI goals.

The SCN collects and reports data to enable ISED to monitor impacts by gender and diversity, including in the organization's Board, selection committees, senior management, principal investigators and co-investigators.

Praxis collects data to monitor and report impacts by equity-deserving groups, including women or non-binary people, Indigenous peoples, racialized minorities, people with disabilities, and 2SLGBTQ+ or gender and sexually diverse individuals, in some of its programming.

AdMare BioInnovations collects data related to EDI in relation to its Board of Directors, management positions and inclusivity of training programs, including ones designed to train future leaders.

Genome Canada Genome Canada collects and reports data to enable ISED to monitor impacts by gender and diversity, including in the organization's Board, senior management, funded projects and researchers.

Institute for Quantum Computing (IQC) updated its Performance Measurement Strategy Framework (PMSF) with the IQC. ISED will monitor and track the IQC's impact on gender and diversity, particularly on women and non-binary students, both historically underrepresented in the field of quantum information sciences and technologies. The updated PMSF tracks the gendered breakdown of graduate students trained through the IQC's programming and also participants in the IQC's workshops such as their Quantum School for Young Students and Schrödinger's Class for high school teachers.

The Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics (Perimeter Institute) updated its Performance Measurement Strategy Framework (PMSF) with the Perimeter Institute. ISED will monitor and track the Perimeter Institute's impact on gender and diversity, particularly on women and non-binary students, both historically underrepresented in the field of theoretical physics. The updated PMSF tracks the gendered breakdown of students trained through the Perimeter Institute's programming, such as their Perimeter Scholars International (PSI) master's program and PSI-START program.

The Canadian Institute for Advanced Research (CIFAR) updated its Performance Measurement Strategy Framework (PMSF) with CIFAR. ISED will monitor and track CIFAR's impact on gender and diversity, particularly on women and non-binary students, both historically underrepresented in the field of artificial intelligence and more broadly in research organizations and academia. The updated PMSF tracks the gendered breakdown of CIFAR's programming such as their Canada CIFAR AI Chairs, early-career researchers participating in the CIFAR Azrieli Global Scholars program, and participants across CIFAR's research programs.

The National Artificial Intelligence Institutes progressed on implementing a Performance Measurement Strategy Framework (PMSF) with each recipient, which will include performance indicators related to GBA+ to monitor and assess each recipient's impact on gender and diversity.

The Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation collects GBA+ data on its scholars, mentors, and fellows, and shares the data with ISED on request. It also reports on the actions of its Advisory Committee on Diversity, including creating EDI content, connecting with diverse communities across Canada, holding open and respectful discussions on diversity with fellows and mentors, and incorporating different types of knowledge such as non-conventional and artistic practices and Indigenous traditions. Diversity factors and special circumstances (e.g., illness or disability, parental leave, socioeconomic background) are considered as part of scholarship application processes.

The Cyber Security Innovation Network has requirements for the Lead Recipient, the National Cybersecurity Consortium (NCC), to demonstrate actions the organization will take to remove barriers to the participation of individuals from underrepresented groups in network governance, operations and activities.

The NCC strives to implement the Government of Canada's 50-30 challenge in the composition of its Board of Directors and senior management positions and includes EDI criteria in the selection of network-supported projects. In addition, the NCC will track the number of project applications and funded Eligible Projects led by underrepresented groups.

As part of the program reporting requirements, the NCC will be collecting performance metrics to measure progress in participation from underrepresented groups in Network activities. While the provision of data is a voluntary activity by participating organizations and Ultimate Recipients, the NCC is recommended to encourage participation.

Core Responsibility: Companies, Investment and Growth

Business Innovation

Program Goals:

the Business Innovation program is committed to fostering positive change and addressing the underrepresentation of Women, Indigenous Peoples, and other minorities in sectors such as science and technology, oil and gas, and heavy industry. This includes effort to ensure that STEM employment as well as the ownership and senior management of businesses in these industries are more representative of Canada's overall demographics, with some groups (in particular women) generally under-represented.

Target Population:

Canadian businesses / Canadian start-ups. Please note, for GIC: Canadian business, specifically those working for/who own small/medium enterprises and those who wish to engage in Canada's innovation sectors.

Distribution of Benefits:

By gender: predominantly men (80% or more men); 60% to 79% men; broadly gender-balanced

By income level: no significant distributional impacts; somewhat benefits high-income individuals (somewhat regressive)

By age group: no significant intergenerational impacts or impacts on generations between youths and seniors

Specific Demographic Group Outcomes:

The Strategic Innovation Fund (SIF) supports innovative initiatives across Canada in many different industries. Women, Indigenous Peoples, and other minorities have disproportionately lower representation in science and technology, oil and gas and heavy industry. To support representation, SIF requires recipient firms to review the gender, diversity and inclusion (GDI) component of their labour force through GDI plans which can include internships, training, and hiring. SIF's Annual Performance Benefits Report, which is completed and submitted by recipients on an annual basis, collects information on aggregate workforce composition, including the percentage composed of Indigenous peoples, black and racialized individuals, those with a disability and those who identify as LGBTQ2.

SIF projects often involve higher degrees of STEM employment. Participation in these occupations is not reflective of Canada's overall demographics, with some groups (in particular women) generally under-represented. Ownership and senior management of businesses in these industries is also not reflective of Canada's overall demographics. To address these economic inequalities, SIF encourages positive change through the use of contribution agreement commitments in respect of gender and diversity outcomes to bolster representation.

Key Program impacts on Gender and diversity:

A first analysis of program applications Innovative Solutions Canada (ISC) in 2022 signalled that about 77% of applications had some ownership by underrepresented groups in their company, with at least 21% of total applications reporting full ownership by some category of underrepresented group. This percentage may be partially attributed to the program's targeted outreach activities. A first comparison of application and funding data in 2022-23 showed that companies with representation of underrepresented groups in ownership are funded more or less at a similar rate to that at which they apply to the program. The following figures represent breakdowns of award recipients by subgroups.

Branch	Statistics	Observed Results^{Footnote *}	Data Source	Comment
Strategic Innovation Fund (SIF)	Percentage of Strategic Innovation Fund Streams 1-3 funding recipients reporting progress towards 50% women on boards and / or in senior management.	As of 2022-23, 2 out of 82 SIF recipients met the target of 50% women on boards and / or in senior management. Of the remaining 80 recipients, 28% indicated a year-over-year improvement towards the 50% target.	2020-21 and 2021-22 Annual Performance Benefits Report (APBR)	-
Strategic Innovation Fund (SIF)	Percentage of Strategic Innovation Fund Streams 1-3 funding recipients reporting progress towards 30% equity seeking groups on boards and / or senior management.	Not available at this time.	Annual Performance Benefits Report (APBR)	SIF currently has 1 year of data available to measure against this indicator in the APBR. Two years are required in order to measure progress made year-over-year.
Strategy, Research and Intellectual Property (SRIP) – Elevate IP	As a new program, ElevateIP does not have outcomes to report for the 2022-2023 fiscal year.	-	-	-
ISC	Ratio of ISC Challenge Stream award recipients which have underrepresented groups in ownership	Youth: 11% of companies with majority ownership (i.e. greater than 50% ownership) 52% of companies with any level of ownership Women: 6% of companies with majority ownership (i.e. greater than 50% ownership) 60% of companies with any level of ownership Visible minorities: 22% of companies with majority ownership (i.e. greater than 50% ownership) 60% of companies with any level of ownership Persons with disabilities: 2% of companies with majority ownership (i.e. greater than 50% ownership) 13% of companies with any level of ownership Indigenous peoples: 4% of companies with any level of ownership Gender diverse person(s): 2% of companies with any level of ownership LGBTQ2+ persons: 1% of companies with majority ownership (i.e. greater than 50% ownership) 18% of companies with any level of ownership	Based on voluntary self-identification of program applicants at the time of proposal submission. Some companies received more than one award.	Trends: Compared to 2021-22, we can observe the following trends in the composition of award recipients for the Challenge Stream: The representation of underrepresented groups in the ownership of funded companies increased in all reported categories last year: youth, women, visible minorities, persons with disabilities, Indigenous peoples and gender diverse persons.
ISC	Ratio of ISC Testing Stream award recipients which have underrepresented groups in ownership	Women: 8% of companies with majority ownership (i.e. greater than 50% ownership) 56% of companies with some level of ownership (i.e. above 0% ownership) Visible minorities: 11% of companies with majority ownership (i.e. greater than 50% ownership) 50% of companies with some level of ownership (i.e. above 0% ownership) Youth: 7% of companies with majority ownership (i.e. greater than 50% ownership) 33% of companies with any level of ownership Indigenous peoples: 11% of companies with some level of ownership (i.e. above 0% ownership) Gender diverse person(s): 18% of companies with some level of ownership (i.e. above 0% ownership) Persons with disabilities: 10% of companies with any level of ownership LGBTQ2+ persons: 1% of companies with majority ownership (i.e. greater than 50% ownership) 32% of companies with any level of ownership	Based on voluntary self-identification of program applicants at the time of proposal submission. Some companies received more than one award.	Trends: Compared to 2021-22, we can observe the following trends in the composition of award recipients for the Testing Stream: The representation of underrepresented groups in the ownership of funded companies increased in most categories: youth, women, visible minorities, and Indigenous peoples.
Global Innovation Clusters (GIC)	Percentage of Cluster Boards of Directors with gender parity	100%	Cluster Annual Reports	Annually
Innovators Experience Branch (IxB)	[IxB] Percentage of target audiences who completed a story (search) on the Business Benefits Finder	From April 1, 2022 to March 31, 2023, of the businesses who completed a story on the Business Benefits Finder and chose to identify their demographics: 26% were Women-owned 20% were Youth-owned 12% were Other Racialized Person-owned 9% were Black Canadian-owned 6% were Persons with Disability-owned 6% were Indigenous Peoples-owned 6% were 2SLGBTQI+ owned 5% were Rural or Northern Resident-owned 5% were Language Minorities-owned	Search results from visits to the Business Benefits Finder.	Completed stories (searches) between April 1, 2022, and March 31, 2023.
Innovators Experience Branch (IxB)	[IxB] Number of federal/provincial programs and services specifically tailored to EDI categories listed on the Business Benefits Finder	247 programs and services are specifically tailored to EDI categories, which represents 15% of all programs and services available on the Business Benefits Finder.	Business Benefits Finder inventory of Government programs and services.	Collected from the Business Benefits Finder inventory of programs and services up to March 31, 2023.
Innovators Experience Branch (IxB)	[IxB] Percentage of Growth Service clients (leadership) self-identifying	From April 1, 2022 to March 31, 2023, of the businesses who joined the Growth Service and chose to identify their demographics (n=75 of the n=164): 49% Women-led 31% Youth (<40) 11% Indigenous 36% Visible Minority 4% Persons with disabilities	Search Results from AGS CRM.	These clients are nominated between April 1, 2022 and March 31, 2023 to receive the Growth Service from AGS typically over an 18 month period in partnership with AGS partners.
Canada Digital Adoption Program (CDAP) – Stream 2 Boost Your Business [The benchmarks are established using Statistics Canada proportion of CDAP eligible SMEs]	Percentage of SME that have self-identified as majority-owned by a member of an equity deserving groups that have received a grant for their digital adoption plan	Racialized groups CDAP: 16.8% Benchmark: 16% Women CDAP: 13.5% Benchmark: 12% Indigenous groups CDAP: 1.1% Benchmark: 1% LGBTQ2+ CDAP: 0.5% Benchmark: 1% Persons with disabilities CDAP: 0.4% Benchmark: 0.8% Newcomers to Canada CDAP: 0.4% Benchmark: 0.4%	Program Data [Due to technical issues, the EDI data is only available for an 10.5 month timeframe. Totals in this chart represent April 1, 2022 to February 15, 2023.]	The benchmarks are established using Statistic Canada data
Canada Digital Adoption Program (CDAP) – Stream 2 Boost Your Business	Percentage of SME that have self-identified as majority-owned by a member of an equity deserving groups that have received a grant for their digital adoption plan	Racialized groups CDAP: 16.8% Benchmark: 16% Women CDAP: 13.5% Benchmark: 12% Indigenous groups CDAP: 1.1% Benchmark: 1% LGBTQ2+ CDAP: 0.5% Benchmark: 1% Persons with disabilities CDAP: 0.4% Benchmark: 0.8% Newcomers to Canada CDAP: 0.4% Benchmark: 0.4%	Program Data	The benchmarks are established using Statistic Canada data
Canada Digital Adoption Program (CDAP) – Stream 2 Boost Your Business	Percentage of SME that have self-identified as majority-owned by a member of an equity deserving groups that have received a loan from BDC	Racialized groups BDC: 17.6% Benchmark: 16% Women BDC: 10.9% Benchmark: 12% Indigenous groups BDC: 0.7% Benchmark: 1% LGBTQ2+ BDC: 0.4% Benchmark: 1% Persons with disabilities BDC: 0.5% Benchmark: 0.8% Newcomers to Canada BDC: 0.4% Benchmark: 0.4%	BDC administrative Data	The benchmarks are established using Statistic Canada data
Footnote * 2022-23 or most recent Return to footnote * referrer

Other Key Program impacts on gender and diversity:

SIF applies a GBA plus lens in project selection by assessing the public benefits of potential projects, including the advancement of inclusive business and hiring practices. Furthermore, SIF funding recipients are required to develop comprehensive Gender, Diversity and Inclusion (GDI) plans at the initiation of their projects. This proactive measure ensures that the organizations supported by SIF are actively assessing and improving their internal processes to cultivate environments that are more equitable, inclusive, and accessible.

Since the inception of the ISC program 39% of Challenge Stream post-funding survey respondents reported an increase in the representation of underrepresented groups in their company ownership structure or board of directors. Fifteen percent of those companies that increased their representation of underrepresented groups in their company ownership structure or board of directors commercialized their innovations, compared to 0% of those companies that did not increase their representation.

In the Testing Stream, 17% of survey respondents reported an increase in the representation of underrepresented groups in their company ownership structure or board of directors. Those companies that increased their representation of underrepresented groups in their company ownership structure or board of directors commercialized at a higher rate (67% vs. 43%) than those companies that did not increase their representation.

Supplementary Information Sources:

N/A

GBA Plus Data Collection Plan:

SIF is currently working to improve consistency across the GDI plans and has introduced standard language to these which will ensure improved quality across the plans. Actions taken in this respect include the development of standard term sheet language (the basis of contribution agreements) which specifies the form of company Gender, Diversity and Inclusion plans. Given that the needs of women and other marginalized groups may vary from industry to industry and from company to company, it is important to maintain flexibility in the approach to commitments and to the gender and diversity plans. SIF is also working to standardize and improve the collection of GBA+ related data on participant workforces. SIF currently collects applicant data, at the SOI stage on regarding ownership and board composition of women and Indigenous people, and the program has updated its application form to have companies report on some standard GBA+ demographic categories in a consistent manner, and make commitments against hiring targets in these areas. Further updates to the Statement of Interest (SOI), Annual Performance Benefits Report (APBR) and Full Application form are planned to collect, monitor and evaluate additional data and performance on applicant and recipient gender, diversity and inclusion initiatives. For example, collecting additional information from funding recipients on the state of their GDI data. As data standardization is important for reporting, SIF will continue to work with efforts currently underway within Innovation Canada to standardize data collection approaches and definitions in this area, to allow for better reporting across the ISED portfolio.

The Strategy, Research and Intellectual Property (SRIP) - Elevate IP program requires its recipients report regularly on their activity, including impacts on under-represented groups. Each recipient is required to develop an Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility (IDEA) Action Plan in 2023 that will outline their plans to address barriers faced by start-ups owned under-represented groups and to promote IDEA concepts within their own organization.

ISC measures participation rates through voluntary requests for self-identification by firms at the time of program application. The program is following the Innovation Canada Sector's initiative to collect diversity data in a similar format across its programs to assess the equity of the implementation of the programs. The program is therefore analyzing its datasets closely and assessing how data may need to be collected differently in 2023-24. The program also measures economic impacts of awards through use of follow-on surveys issued in one-year intervals for up to five years following test completion. The response rate to these surveys varies by program stream: it ranges between 20 and 40 per cent of funded companies. In addition, the program features success stories of funded companies and ensures a balanced representation to showcase the content in its outreach activities. The analysis of these datasets is reported through ISC's annual report and other corporate reporting requirements at ISED.

The Global Innovation Clusters (GIC) track board representation for each of the clusters, ensuring that they meet the commitment of 50% female representation. The Clusters have also developed and rolled-out their capacity building strategies, which will help address ecosystem gaps related to GBA+ priorities.

The GIC Program is now collecting disaggregated demographic statistics from Statistics Canada (StatCan) for partner and member organizations. Specifically, the program is piloting the collection of disaggregated statistics for women, visible minorities, Indigenous peoples and persons with disabilities.

Metrics to review the use and audience behavior/interaction with the Business Benefits Finder will be monitored. Innovation Canada will be gathering EDI data on the programs available and on the growth/decline of the use of the tool by audiences who identify as being in one of the specified groups.

The AGS is taking notable steps to improve its data collection capacity. Firstly, for its Advisory Service which has no formal onboarding mechanism to collect data as the client interactions are typically one-off experiences, the AGS is working in collaboration with the IDEA Centre of Expertise within the Strategy, Research and Intellectual Property (SRIP) branch to explore possible methods to collect demographic data through either an intake form at the pre-call stage, during interactions with clients and/or using a post-call feedback survey. These should result in better quality data to inform reporting and analysis on the Service's impact on gender and diversity in 2023-24.

Secondly, the AGS launched its new premium-tier service, the Global Hypergrowth Project (GHP) in 2022-2023. While basic EDI criteria was collected for this first round of applicants, once firms are confirmed in the inaugural cohort, we will be working with these firms to better collect EDI data to help inform policy and program development.

CDAP – Boost Your Business Technology data collection includes disaggregated data on equity deserving groups, collected through self-identification at the application stage. This information is used to track SMEs at each stage of their program journey. The monitoring helps to identify any barriers, tangible or intangible within the program. The information related to equity deserving groups is also used to analyze decision making through a GBA lens.

Spectrum and Telecommunications

Target Population:

All Canadians and Telecom Companies

Distribution of Benefits:

N/A

Specific Demographic Group Outcomes:

N/A

GBA Plus Data Collection Plan:

N/A

Note: ISED manages radio frequency spectrum in order to maximize the economic and social benefits that all Canadians, regardless of gender characteristics or demographics, derive from the use of this resource. As such, the department does not collect data on the impacts of the program on specific demographic groups in the context of GBA+.

Digital Service

Program Goals:

The Digital Service Program recognizes the growing need for digital service innovation in the public sector, in support of a Government priority "Improving Delivery and Quality of Government Services". The Program aims to make ISED a leader in digital service to business, by charting a course for client-centric digital service design, fostering leading-edge digital service provision to clients, modelling open government, and providing digital services that support firms, so they can start, compete, connect and grow. An over-arching requirement, regardless of service type, is for the service design to incorporate GBA Plus considerations and for those considerations to be reviewed regularly and to be incorporated into on-going service improvement activities.

Target Population:

SMEs, as well as Federal departments and/or agencies

Distribution of Benefits:

N/A

Specific Demographic Group Outcomes:

N/A

GBA Plus Data Collection Plan:

N/A

Economic Outcomes from Procurement

Program Goals:

implements the Defence Procurement Strategy, which includes the Industrial and Technological Benefits (ITB) Policy and the weighted and rated Value Proposition (VP). The ITB Policy, including the VP, ensures that Canada's significant investment in defence-related goods and services supports the long-term sustainability and growth of Canada's defence and security industry.will continue to gather relevant data and other information concerning the submission of Gender and Diversity Plans for ITB procurements.

ITBB will continue to work with Statistics Canada in collecting gender disaggregated data employment data through biennial surveys.

Target Population:

Canadian Defence, Marine, Aerospace and Cybersecurity Industries

Distribution of Benefits:

By gender: predominantly men (80% or more men)

By income level: strongly benefits high-income individuals (strongly regressive)

Key Program impacts on Gender and diversity:

Statistics	Observed Results^{Footnote *}	Data Source	Comment
Total of Female Employees' Share in the defence industry	25%	ISED sponsored Statistics Canada's Canadian Defence, Aerospace, Marine and Cybersecurity Industries Survey (2020), released in 2022	The defence industry had a similar pattern as the manufacturing average (27%) in terms of its overall gender breakdown.
Total of Female Employees' Share in the Marine industry	18%	ISED sponsored Statistics Canada's Canadian Defence, Aerospace, Marine and Cybersecurity Industries Survey (2020), released in 2022	-
Total of Female Employees' Share in the Cybersecurity industry	32%	ISED sponsored Statistics Canada's Canadian Defence, Aerospace, Marine and Cybersecurity Industries Survey (2020), released in 2022	-
Total of Female Employees' Share of the Aerospace Manufacturing industry	19%	Statistics Canada's Labour Force Survey (2020)	-
Footnote * 2022-23 or most recent Return to footnote * referrer

Other:

Statistics Canada's Labour Force Survey and ISED sponsored Statistics Canada 2020 Canadian Defence, Aerospace, Marine and Cybersecurity Industries Survey show the share of female employees by occupation types.

Employee Characteristics	STEM	Production Workers	Corporate Functions
Share of female employees (25% of total employees) in the Defense industry by occupation type	15%	25%	38%
Share of female employees (18% of total employees) in the Marine industry by occupation type	13%	11%	35%
Share of female employees (32% of total employees) in the Cybersecurity industry by occupation type	26%	17%	43%
Share of female employees (19% of total employees) in the Aerospace Manufacturing industry by occupation type	15%	-	-

GBA Plus Data Collection Plan:

To address gaps in understanding gender and diversity differences in the defence industries, in 2018 ISED mandated the provision of Gender and Diversity Plans from bidders on eligible defence procurements to which the ITB Policy applies. Through the application of the Gender and Diversity Plans, Prime Contractors are required to describe their approach to increasing gender balance and diversity in their Canadian corporate structure and broader supply chains. To further support our data collection efforts and establish a baseline, ISED began collecting additional gender disaggregated employment data through the ISED-sponsored Statistics Canada biennial Canadian Defence, Aerospace, Marine and Cybersecurity Industries Survey. This data collection phase is ongoing and ISED will continue to gather relevant data and other information concerning the submission of Gender and Diversity Plans for ITB procurements. ISED will continue to work with Statistics Canada in collecting gender disaggregated data employment data through biennial surveys.

Tourism

Program Goals:

is responsible for federal tourism policy development and integration, including Canada's New Tourism Vision, to bring greater consistency to the policies and programs that support growth in the Canadian tourism sector. The program works with other federal government departments and agencies, tourism industry representatives, and provincial and territorial governments to address current and emerging tourism issues and opportunities in support of a competitive tourism sector in Canada.

Target Population:

Hospitality and/or food services industry, Indigenous/northern businesses, Small and Medium Enterprises

Distribution of Benefits:

N/A

Specific Demographic Group Outcomes:

ISED administered $15 million in tourism funding under the National Priorities Stream (NPS) of the Tourism Relief Fund, to assist the economic recovery of the tourism sector and consequently its pandemic affected groups. Under the New Federal Tourism Growth Strategy one of the five priorities includes the enhancement of partnerships with Indigenous tourism organizations to ensure that Indigenous tourism is Indigenous-led and as such one of the four national tourism organizations funded through the NPS was Indigenous Tourism Canada.

GBA Plus Data Collection Plan:

ISED regularly tracks GBA Plus data on the tourism sector and in the evaluation of broader programs and/or initiatives. In addition, the New Federal Tourism Growth Strategy that was announced in 2023, will continue to support GBA Plus analysis and decision-making that reduces potential barriers to participation of equity-seeking groups, including harnessing insights from statistical projects underway.

Support for Small Business

Program Goal:

Provide support to help grow small, medium and large Canadian businesses into globally competitive, high impact firms; ensures a competitive marketplace; promote the conditions that support competitive prices and product choice; simplify government programming; promote efforts to reduce red tape for business, putting in place the right conditions for market-driven innovation and promoting growth and an economy that works for everyone; reduce barriers to the movement of goods, services, capital and labor; grow Canada's tourism sector.

Target Population:

Canadian SMEs, as well as specific regions and/or sectors of the economy

Distribution of Benefits:

By gender: 60% to 79% men

By income level: no significant distributional impacts; somewhat benefits high-income individuals (somewhat regressive)

By age group: no significant intergenerational impacts or impacts on generations between youths and seniors

Specific Demographic Group Outcomes:

Support for Small Businesses benefits SMEs and entrepreneurs, by providing access to government supports including financing and business advisory services.

The renewed Venture Capital Catalyst Initiative introduced under Budget 2021 includes a focus on advancing gender balance and diversity in the Canadian Venture Capital ecosystem. According to recent research from the Canadian Venture Capital and Private Equity Association (CVCA) and Diversio, traditionally underrepresented groups face additional challenges in the VC industry. They make up a minority of investors, and entrepreneurs from these groups are less likely to seek equity financing, and when they do, they are more likely to be turned down or receive less funding. The renewed VCCI includes an inclusive growth stream to support access to VC for traditionally underrepresented group, particularly women and racialized communities. In addition, selected Venture Capital (VC) fund managers from all streams will be expected to collect gender and diversity metrics, as well as implement policies and practices that promote diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) principles in their operations, in the building of their portfolios and contribute to DEI in the broader VC ecosystem.

Key Program Impacts Statistics:

-	Statistics	Observed Results^{Footnote *}	Data Source	Comment
Canada Small Business Financing Program	Gender distribution of CSBFP borrowers	22% wholly or majority owned by women 17% equally owned by women and men 11% minority owned by women 51% wholly owned by men	Survey of Financing and Growth of SMEs (2020)	none
Venture Capital Catalyst Initiative	Total number of small and medium-size enterprises supported	302 (As of December 31, 2021)	Program reporting data	-
Footnote * 2022-23 or most recent Return to footnote * referrer

Note: The reporting template utilized for VCCI does not capture demographic information for the ownership of companies supported under the program, at this time. However, based on voluntary reporting from 56 companies, 26% of senior management level positions of companies supported are occupied by women. A part of the renewed VCCI investments (Budget 2021), future reporting will include mandatory reporting on gender and diversity.

Supplementary Information Sources:

SME Profile: Canada Small Business Financing Program borrowers, used by the Canada Small Business Financing Program

GBA Plus Data Collection Plan:

The Canada Small Business Financing Program (CSBFP) collects gender relevant data for CSBFP borrowers through the Survey of Financing and Growth of SMEs every three years. Specifically, they oversample CSBFP borrowers in the StatsCan surveys and use the results to prorate across the CSBFP portfolio to generate estimates of the percentages and volumes based on gender. If further information is needed, these figures are elaborated upon in the CSBFP Borrower Profile documents.

As part of investments related to the Venture Capital Catalyst Initiative (VCCI) under Budget 2021, selected Venture Capital (VC) fund managers will be expected to collect and report gender and diversity metrics. The Trade Accelerator Program (TAP) collects administrative data to report on the gender and diversity of its clients.

Talent Development

Program Goals:

The primary goal of the Talent Development Program (TDP) is to ensure that Canadians are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed by industry and to facilitate career success, economic growth, and innovation. Program delivery is guided by the overarching goal of enhancing economic inclusion.

Target Population:

The TDP supports diverse groups of K-12 students, youth, postsecondary students, graduates, educators, mid-career workers, and employers.

Distribution of Benefits:

By gender: broadly gender-balanced

By income level: somewhat benefits low-income individuals (somewhat progressive)

By age group: primarily benefits youth, children or future generations

Specific Demographic Group Outcomes:

While the TDP directly or indirectly benefits specific groups—including K-12 students, youth (between 15 and 30 years old), postsecondary students, graduates, educators, mid-career workers and employers— all Canadians benefit from the positive impacts on growth and innovation it supports. The TDP ensures that workers and emerging talent develop the skills and knowledge to help address skills and labour gaps, which in turn improves productivity and advances positive outcomes across the Canadian economy.

More specifically, the TDP aims to support diverse groups – including Indigenous Peoples, gender diverse people, people with disabilities, racialized people, rural and remote communities, and official language minority communities – by taking action to facilitate greater inclusivity and accessibility.

For example, the direct benefits of CanCode are designed to accrue broadly to Canadian youth (K-12), with a focus on reaching girls, Indigenous youth, Black youth, youth with disabilities, and youth living in rural, remote and northern communities. The purpose of CanCode is to provide students with the coding, data, and digital skills they need for participation in the digital economy. There will also be indirect benefits to some Canadian teachers through training and professional development activities to help them introduce digital skills and coding to their students.

Some equity-deserving groups may experience barriers to accessing TDP programming for various reasons. These barriers can perpetuate existing inequalities in the workforce and otherwise. The TDP makes targeted efforts to address equity, diversity, inclusion and accessibility issues. For example:

LTS mitigates geographic barriers faced by rural and remote communities by funding travel for volunteers to visit these communities and expanding its online presence. It also empowers and supports Outreach sites to address needs of local communities.
BHER is dedicating funding and resources to advance WIL for international students and other groups that generally face barriers to accessing WIL.
Mitacs is actively working with Indigenous partners, and to build relationships with Indigenous businesses and organizations, to address the underrepresentation of Indigenous Peoples in its program.

Key Impacts:

Statistics	Program	Observed Results	Data Source	Comment
Female (Percentage of participants that were captured by data collection tools, who are female)	LTS	67%	Annual Report	Most recent results are from 2021-22
	CanCode	48%	Quarterly Progress Reports	Achieved to date (Q4, 2021-22 – 2022-23) Target = 50%
	CFSI	18%	Quarterly reports	Data from 2022-2023
	BHER	53%	Quarterly progress report	1.2% identified non-binary and 0.4% as another gender (neither female, male or non-binary) Most recent results are from Q3 2022-23 results
	Mitacs	43.75%	Annual Report	Most recent results are from 2021-22
	DS4Y	51%	Quarterly reports	Data from 2022-2023
	PMA	74%	-	Most recent results are from 2022-23
Indigenous (Percentage of participants that were captured by data collection tools, who are Indigenous)	LTS	8%	Annual Report	Most recent results are from 2021-22
	CanCode	7%	Quarterly Progress Reports	Achieved to date (Q4, 2021-22 – 2022-23) Target = 7%
	CFSI	6%	Quarterly reports	Data from 2022-2023
	BHER	3%	-	Of the total participants: First Nation – 1.33% Métis – 0.5% Inuit – 0.05 other – 0.21% (a small portion of participants indicated they are Indigenous but did not provide further details) Most recent results are from Q3 2022-23
	Mitacs	0.92%	Annual Report	Most recent results are from 2021-22
	DS4Y	6%	Quarterly reports	Data from 2022-2023
	PMA	6%	-	2022-23 results
Racialized People (Percentage of participants that were captured by data collection tools, who are racialized people)	CanCode	4%	Quarterly Progress Reports	CanCode tracks the participation of black youth. Results achieved to date (Q4, 2021-22 – 2022-23)
	CFSI	40%	Quarterly reports	Data from 2022-2023
	BHER	51%	-	Most recent results are from Q3 2022-23
	Mitacs	24.25%	Annual Report	Most recent results are from 2021-22
	DS4Y	43%	Quarterly reports	Data from 2022-2023
	PMA	17%	-	2022-23 results
People with disabilities (Percentage of participants that were captured by data collection tools, who are people with disabilities)	LTS	13%	Annual Report	Most recent results are from 2021-22
	CanCode	4%	Quarterly Progress Reports	Achieved to date (Q4, 2021-22 – 2022-23) Target = 1%
	CFSI	13%	Quarterly reports	Data from 2022-2023
	BHER	7%	-	-
	Mitacs	7.8%	Annual Report	Most recent results are from 2021-22
	DS4Y	6%	Quarterly reports	Data from 2022-2023
Rural and remote (Percentage of participants that were captured by data collection tools, who are living in rural and/or remote regions)	LTS	19%	Annual Report	Most recent results are from 2021-22
	CanCode	23%	Quarterly Progress Reports	Achieved to date (Q4, 2021-22 – 2022-23) Target = 17%
Official Language Minorities (Percentage of participants that were captured by data collection tools, who are official language minorities)	CFSI	5%	Quarterly reports	-
	BHER	97% English 2% French 1% prefer not to say	-	BHER collects data on the official language participants speak most proficiently. Most recent results are from Q3 2022-23
	DS4Y	10%	Quarterly reports	Data from 2022-2023
	PMA	2%	-	Most recent results are from 2022-23

Note: The Upskilling for Industry Initiative (UII) does not currently have GBA Plus results to report. The Contribution Agreement was signed on March 14, 2023. Thus, it is anticipated that program will commence delivering training to workers in Summer 2023 with initial results expected as early as Fall 2023.

Other key program impacts on gender and diversity:

N/A

Supplementary Information Sources:

N/A

GBA Plus Data Collection Plan:

LTS will continue to closely monitor and assess program outcomes, and ensure that intended results are being achieved through the annual collection of data disaggregated by gender, and other diversity aspects.

In 2022, BHER developed a new reporting system that will ensure the collection of high quality disaggregated data on student and employer participants. BHER also created new standardized survey instruments that align with GBA Plus data collection best practices and signed funding agreements with partners that include stringent data requirements. BHER is providing tailored data collection support services to ensure partners are able to collect the required data. These changes will allow BHER to improve its monitoring of the performance of delivery partners, including as it pertains to equity, diversity, and inclusion.

Mitacs will continue to closely monitor and assess program outcomes and ensure that intended results are being achieved through the annual collection of data disaggregated by gender, and other diversity aspects.

Under the Youth Employment and Skills Strategy (YESS), both the CFSI program and DS4Y program established GBA Plus targets that they will have to achieve on an annual basis. The targets for each program are listed below as the programs recipients try to achieve these targets.

CFSI GBA Plus targets:
Women	Indigenous	Racialized People	People with disabilities
20%	5%	30%	3.5%

DS4Y GBA Plus targets:
Women	Indigenous	Racialized People	People with disabilities
50%	5%	25%	3%

The UII has developed a comprehensive quarterly reporting tool that will be used by the recipient starting in fiscal year 2023-2024 to collect GBA Plus information from program participants. Data will capture information on: racialized people, newcomers, first official language (English and French), people with disabilities, 2SLGBTQI+ people, and Indigenous peoples (First Nation, Métis and Inuit).

Intellectual Property

Program Goals:

To contribute to Canada's innovation and economic success through timely delivery of quality IP services, fostering invention and creativity and raising awareness to better exploit IP.

Target Population:

Canadian innovators, businesses and SMEs, as well as specific sectors of the economy. In addition, the IP program targets women entrepreneurs and Indigenous businesses through the Canadian Intellectual Property Office's (CIPO) Intellectual Property (IP) Awareness and Education Services.

Distribution of Benefits:

By gender: broadly gender-balanced

Specific Demographic Group Outcomes:

Women entrepreneurs and Indigenous businesses.

Key Impacts:

N/A

Other Key Program impacts on gender and diversity:

In 2022-23, ISED applied the appropriate GBA Plus lens to regulatory amendments to the Patent Rules (in the context of the Fee Review). No GBA Plus impacts were identified on gender and diversity. However, an analysis under the small business lens has determined that the proposed amendments would result in increased costs to small businesses. Thus, a positive change for SMEs has been introduced: the definition of ''small entity'' was expanded from 50 to 100 employee, meaning that a greater number of businesses would be able to pay the discounted patent fees specifically targeting small entities.

GBA Plus Data Collection Plan:

ISED has continued to collect data from meetings and presentations across the country that target underrepresented groups such as women and Indigenous entrepreneurs. CIPO committed to collecting data on gender, race, sexual orientation, Indigenous status, and disability from a range of viewpoints to foster a culture of evidence-based decision making. ISED pursued its collaboration with the national and international IP community to better understand and address gender gaps in the innovation ecosystem, as well as strengthen its participation in World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) activities, seminars series, and workshops related to GBA Plus to better serve client needs.

ISED has operationalized the collection of disaggregated data, EDI data and GBA Plus data by collecting demographic information from respondents through all survey research that the organization leads. ISED will continue to collect this data and will apply the GBA Plus lens on the analysis of results to ensure that all client groups are supported and that services align with their needs.

In 2022-23, notable actions included:

Administration of the 2022 CIPO Client Satisfaction Survey – a survey that collects data on clients perceptions of ISED's core IP services provided in patents, trademarks and industrial design services. Collected data, including measures on EDI, from April 21 – June 27 2022.
Administration of the 2022 Service Excellence Employee Survey – a survey that collects data on employee perceptions towards ISEDs core IP services. Collected data, including measures on EDI, from May 20 – June 7 2022.

Canadian Intellectual Property Office fee adjustments consultations. CIPO launched an online public consultation on March 31, 2022, for a period of 30 days. Collected data, including measures on EDI.

Competition Law Enforcement and Promotion

Program Goals:

Promote and maintain fair competition in the Canadian marketplace, ensuring that businesses and consumers can benefit from innovation, competitive pricing while preventing anti-competitive practises.

Target Population:

Consumers and businesses in Canada

Distribution of Benefits:

By gender: broadly gender-balanced

By income level: no significant distributional impacts

By age group: no significant intergenerational impacts or impacts on generations between youths and seniors.

Specific Demographic Group Outcomes:

N/A

Key Program impacts on Gender and diversity:

N/A

GBA Plus Data Collection Plan:

Nothing to report for 2022-23.

Marketplace Protection and Promotion

Program Goal:

The Marketplace Protection and Promotion program regulates and provides oversight over a number of aspects of the Canadian marketplace, including trade measurement, insolvency, corporate governance including federal incorporation, market access and consumer affairs.

Target Population:

Consumers and businesses in Canada

Distribution of Benefits:

By gender: predominantly men (80% or more men); broadly gender-balanced

By income level: no significant distributional impacts

By age group: no significant intergenerational impacts or impacts on generations between youths and seniors

Specific Demographic Group Outcomes:

Marketplace Protection and Promotion directly benefits Canadian consumers or businesses who require access to the insolvency system and Candidates seeking entry into the Licensed Insolvency Trustee profession in Canada. As the program fosters equity and inclusion, as well as GBA+ considerations in its initiatives and processes, Canadians of all genders, socio-economic status, and age benefit equally.

Key Impacts:

Program	Statistics	Observed Results^{Footnote *}	Data Source	Comment
Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy (OSB)	Volume of consumer insolvencies by gender groups	In 2022: Male: 26% Female: 26% Other: 8% I prefer not to answer: 39%	Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy (OSB) Databases	In January 2022, questions concerning gender identity, employment equity, and diversity were refined to gather better data and were made voluntary so debtors can choose to consent to the sharing of this personal information.
Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy	Volume of consumer insolvencies by age groups	In 2022: 18-34: 26% 35-49: 36% 50-64: 26% 65+: 12%	Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy (OSB) Databases	-
Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy	Volume of consumer insolvencies by annual income	In 2022: 0-24k: 26% 24k-42k: 44% 42k-60k: 19% Over 60k: 12%	Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy (OSB) Databases	-
Footnote * 2022-23 or most recent Return to footnote * referrer

Other Key Program impacts on gender and diversity:

The OSB also initiated a project in 2019 to increase representativeness amongst private sector Licensed Insolvency Trustees (LIT). It has since begun to collect data and information on challenges faced by Employment Equity (EE) LITs at various stages of the training and licensing process to identify potential systemic barriers. It recently published a best practices guide to increasing diversity and inclusion for LITs and it initiated a pilot project to allow candidates to apply for a licence limited to either consumer or corporate insolvencies.

The OSB continues to review and analyze data relating to diversity and inclusion among Licensed Insolvency Trustees (LITs) and LIT feeder groups, seek ways to address barriers to entry into the profession and undertake outreach and promotional efforts aimed at increasing awareness of the insolvency profession to potential feeder groups.

Supplementary Information Sources:

Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy (OSB): 2022 Oral Board of Examination Results (canada.ca)

GBA Plus Data Collection Plan:

On January 1, 2022, the OSB amended its data collection approach on gender and added voluntary gender identity and diversity data collection from individuals filing for insolvency under the Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act (BIA) and encouraged collection of the information. The OSB also collects gender identity and diversity data on Licensed Insolvency Trustees (LITs) and LIT candidates on a voluntary basis. The OSB will analyze the data to help identify any unintended barriers within the insolvency system and will seek to address them. For example, in 2023-24, the OSB will use the data with regard to filings by Indigenous Peoples in support of a project to identify and address any barriers they may face in the insolvency system.

Clean Technology and Clean Growth

Program Goals:

The Clean Technology and Clean Growth program promotes the development and commercialization of clean technology to create well-paying jobs for Canadians and enhance economic growth while helping to meet Canada's climate change and other environmental goals. It supports Canadian clean technology firms to help them grow into global high-impact firms as part of Canada's transition to a low-carbon economy. The program provides evidence-based analysis and advice on clean technology in Canada and supports the development of clean technology policy, outreach, and engagement.

Target Population:

Clean technology sector

Distribution of Benefits:

By gender: predominantly men (80% or more men); broadly gender-balanced

By income level: no significant distributional impacts

By age group: no significant intergenerational impacts or impacts on generations between youths and seniors

Specific Demographic Group Outcomes:

Clean Growth Hub (CGH)

The Clean Growth Hub's service is intended to stimulate clean technology activities and is not directed at any specific demographic. However, gender and diversity trends are expected to contribute to specific groups directly benefiting from the initiative since clean technology firms to date have been owned predominately by individuals that are male, non-Indigenous, and in urban locations.

Clean Technology Data Strategy (CTDS)

The Clean Technology Data Strategy (CTDS) collects and publishes industry (company-level), public administrative, and macroeconomic data (including disaggregated labour force statistics) on the cleantech sector to enable evidence-based public and private decision-making and support understanding of the impact of federal policies and programs on Canada's environmental, social and economic agendas, with the ultimate goal of supporting inclusive, green economic growth that benefits all Canadians. As the CTDS is an enabling measure, it is does not provide direct or indirect benefits to, or negative impacts to any specific demographic group(s). There are no barriers to access as CTDS data is freely accessible online.

The Sustainable Development Technology Canada (SDTC)

In 2022–2023, 40% of SDTC's seed funding recipients came from regions outside traditional centres for sustainable innovations, highlighting the geographic diversity of the Canadian innovation ecosystem. Of those companies that have graduated from SDTC's seed funding program and received approved for start-up funding, nearly 60% are found outside of Canada's 10 biggest cities.

In 2022-23, SDTC continued to deliver on its commitment to the Government of Canada's 50 – 30 Challenge as a framework to accelerate diversity actions. It also continued to advance equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) within the workplace through creation of a strategy to benchmark current practices and inform future actions.

Key Impacts:

Statistics	Observed Results^{Footnote *}	Data Source	Comment
Sustainable Development Technology Canada
Percentage of SD Tech Fund supported technologies whose firms are majority-led by women	In 2022-23, 30% of SDTC-supported companies were majority-led by women	SDTC Performance Measurement Strategy Framework (PMSF)	SDTC's 2022-23 performance target for this indicator was to "Achieve a rate of 25% of SD Tech Fund-supported firms majority-led by women.
Clean Growth Hub
Percentage of new and returning clients that self-identify as led or majority-owned by underrepresented groups in clean tech (women, Indigenous peoples, radicalized persons, persons living with disabilities, and/or member of the LGBTQ2+ community).	Women: 18% Indigenous Peoples: 5% Racialized persons: 17% Youth (Under 40): 21% Persons living with disabilities: 4% LGBTQ2S+: 2%	Clean Growth Hub's Customer Relationship Management System	The Clean Growth Hub clients that self-identify as led or majority-owned by underrepresented groups in clean tech include organizations that are considered Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)
Footnote * 2022-23 or most recent Return to footnote * referrer

Other Key Program impacts on gender and diversity:

The Clean Growth Hub ensures continued service to all clean technology innovators and adopters across the clean technology ecosystem in Canada. The initiative is not expected to differentially impact gender groups, nor pose barriers to equal participation or benefit, nor alter behaviour in a manner that would weaken gender equality or diversity or reinforce the existing gender imbalance.

Supplementary Information Sources:

SDTC Annual Report

GBA Plus Data Collection Plan:

In 2022-23, the Clean Growth Hub (CGH) continued to implement a Reconciliation, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (REDI) Action Plan to maintain and update data gathering on client diversity, and enhance capacity to provide tailored advice to underrepresented groups. The REDI Action Plan will be updated annually to support continuous monitoring, reporting and subsequent improvement.

Under the macroeconomic pillar of the CTDS, led by ISED, the CTDS continued to publish labour force data disaggregated on the basis of specific demographic characteristics (e.g. gender, Indigenous status, income, education level, location, etc.) to enable ongoing monitoring of the EDI characteristics of the clean technology and environmental goods and services sectors and grow the evidence base needed to inform decision-making supports opportunities for all demographic groups in the net-zero future.

As part of the administrative data component of the CTSD, the Clean Growth Hub produced data guidance to improve the standardization of data collection and analysis for key indicators. The guidance includes a section on diversity information collected by federal cleantech funding programs to promote consistency in data collection relating to the diversity profile of funding recipients. The Clean Growth Hub actively worked with federal programs that fund clean technology projects to support the collection and analysis of standardized REDI data to improve the understanding of how federal funding is distributed among equity-seeking groups, identify gaps and ensure equitable support is available to diverse groups.

The SDTC GBA Plus data collection will be provided at a later date.^{Footnote 1}

Response to parliamentary committees and external audits

Response to parliamentary committees

There were no parliamentary committee reports requiring a response in 2022-23.

Response to audits conducted by the Office of the Auditor General of Canada (including audits conducted by the Commissioner of the Environment and Sustainable Development)

Title: 2023 Reports 1 to 4 of the Auditor General of Canada to the Parliament of Canada
Report 2 – Connectivity in Rural and Remote Areas

Summary

The audit focused on whether Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) and the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission had improved the accessibility, affordability, and quality of high-speed Internet and mobile cellular connectivity for Canadians in rural and remote areas.

The audit found that since the release of Canada's 2019 connectivity strategy, internet and mobile cellular coverage has improved both nationally and in rural and remote communities, however, a digital divide still exists between people living in urban areas and people living in rural and remote areas, including First Nations reserves. The audit found delays in the rollout of a number of federal connectivity initiatives/programs along with a small percentage of funding spent, few performance indicators to measure progress on affordability and quality of internet and mobile cellular access, and key information remained unavailable that would facilitate spectrum sharing, increase competition, and expand services.

There were seven recommendations (#s 2.20, 2.25, 2.30, 2.36, 2.52, 2.63, 2.67) involving ISED for which the Department provided a response.

The full report can be accessed at: Report 2—Connectivity in Rural and Remote Areas (oag-bvg.gc.ca)

Response to audits conducted by the Public Service Commission of Canada or the Office of the Commissioner of Official Languages

There were no audits in 2022–23 requiring a response.

United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Sustainable Development Goals

UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

2022‒23 planned initiatives

Associated domestic targets or "ambitions" and/or global targets

2022‒23 results

SDG 7: Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all

Sustainable Development Technology Canada

Sustainable Development Technology Canada (SDTC) helps Canadian companies develop and demonstrate new environmental technologies that address climate change, clean air, clean water and clean soil.

SDTC contributes to advancing:

The Canadian Indicator Framework ambitions of "Canadians reduce their energy consumption" and "Canadians have access to clean and renewable energy"
The Canadian Indicator Framework target 7.3 of "by 2030, 90%, and in the long term 100%, of Canada's electricity is generated from renewable and non-emitting sources"
The Global Indicator Framework targets 7.1 "By 2030, ensure universal access to affordable, reliable and modern energy services"; 7.2 "By 2030, increase substantially the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix"; and 7.3 "By 2030, double the global rate of improvement in energy efficiency".

SDTC continued to identify and support Canadian companies in develop competitive clean technologies that address climate change, clean air, clean water and clean soil. In 2022-23, SDTC invested $133 million in 115 new projects across Canada, which all supported the Canadian cleantech ecosystem. SDTC also continued to manage the Next Generation Biofuels Fund, which supports the demonstration of next generation renewable fuel production facilities.

SDTC's priority towards investing in clean technology projects and investments in funds such as the Next Generations Biofuels fund helps promote access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all Canadians.

SDG 8: Promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all

Accelerated Growth Service

The Accelerated Growth Service (AGS) helps Canadian companies get the help they need to grow their businesses. The service coordinates government support for high growth companies in areas such as financing, advisory support, export and innovation services.

The AGS contributes to advancing:

The Canadian Indicator Framework ambition(s) of "Canadians have access to quality jobs" and "Canadians contribute to and benefit from sustainable economic growth"
The Global Indicator Framework targets 8.1 "Sustain per capita economic growth in accordance with national circumstances and, in particular, at least 7 per cent gross domestic product growth per annum in the least developed countries" and 8.2 of "Achieve higher levels of economic productivity through diversification, technological upgrading and innovation, through a focus on high-value added and labor-intensive sectors.

In general, AGS is helping its clients to grow quality employment and revenues faster, export more, and do more R&D, than counterpart firms that do not access its services. Collectively, these services are saving companies valuable time and helping them thrive in the Canadian and global economy, thus increasing their productivity and positively contributing to sustainable GDP growth.

Based on a 2023 Statistics Canada report, previous cohorts of Growth Service clients have, on average, grown their workforce by 3.8% more, grown their revenues by 4.3% more, increased their export revenue by 2.7% more, and spent 10.2% more on R&D, over the same timeframe as similar Canadian companies that did not receive AGS support.

Among the top areas of support provided to AGS clients are: export promotion, youth employment and internship programs, R&D financing, digital adoption services, and student work placements.

In 2022-23, AGS provided 2,448 companies fast, tailored support recommendations, advice, and connections within the innovation ecosystem through its Advisory Service.

In 2022-23, AGS provided164 of Canada's most promising companies with customized support through its Growth Service to help them grow even faster, in consultation with a number of AGS partners which include federal government organizations and some private sector organizations. These clients successfully accessed $129M in funding from AGS core government partners. This service serves all industries, with 7% of its 2022-23 clients from the cleantech sector and 5% from the agri-food sector.

SDG 9: Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and foster innovation

Innovation and Skills Plan

The Innovation and Skills Plan is a major redesign of the innovation policy landscape in Canada designed to make Canada a world-leading centre for innovation, to create well-paying jobs and foster the participation of traditionally underrepresented groups, such as women and Indigenous Peoples, in the innovation economy. The Plan targets investments at all points along the innovation continuum, starting with people and skills and extending to fundamental science, to commercial applications and new technology adoption, and to accessing markets at home and abroad. Major components include:

The Innovation and Skills Plan contributes to advancing:

The Canadian Indicator Framework ambition of "Canada fosters sustainable research and innovation"
The Global Indicator Framework target 9.5 "Enhance scientific research, upgrade the technological capabilities of industrial sectors in all countries, in particular in developing countries, including, by 2030, encouraging innovation and substantially increasing the number of research and development workers per 1 million people and public and private research and development spending."

In 2022-23, the Innovation and Skills Plan continued to implement 2030 Agenda and further this SDG through its contributions and investments in projects dedicated to creating more jobs, fostering innovation in areas of clean technology and intellectual property, promoting a more inclusive participation of underrepresented groups in the Canadian industrial and innovation economy, and increasing sustainable industrialization.

Specifically, Global Innovation Clusters has achieved more than 500 approved collaborative projects involving more than 2,500 participating partners across all five clusters; more than 78% percent of business partners are small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs); exceeded its program target of 1:1.2 for total funds leveraged from partners for every dollar of program funding allocated by the end of the program; and has instituted strong measures in place to support intellectual property (IP) value creation and the maximization of benefits for Canada and Canadians.

The Strategic Innovation Fund achieved notable results by contributing approximately $13 billion to the economy though R&D investments and IP-rich projects, SIF continues to advance economic growth through job creations in the Canadian economy while also bolstering the domestic semiconductor production, yielding larger economic growth and patents. SIF also committed to sustainable industrialization by funding $1.6 billion to the Net Zero Accelerator (NZA) projects, including a $259 million investment in General Motors of Canada Company's electric vehicle facility.

Innovation Solutions Canada has issued a total of 697 awards, either as grants or procurement contracts, including 332 contracts to support innovation prototype testing, and 365 of combined grants and contracts to advance early-stage research and development along the technology development cycle, since its inception.

Clean Growth Hub has continued to contribute to economic growth and accelerate the country's transition to a low-carbon economy. The Hub fulfilled three key functions: help clean technology stakeholders identify and navigate federal programs and services most relevant to their needs; improve federal clean technology program coordination; and strengthen federal capacity to track clean technology outcomes. Further, the Hub supported 355 clients in 2022–23 through its single-window service, including by proactively engaging clean tech companies that are poised to be leaders in the clean technology sector.

Sustainable Development Technology Canada

Sustainable Development Technology Canada (SDTC) helps Canadian companies develop and demonstrate new environmental technologies that address climate change, clean air, clean water and clean soil.

SDTC contributes to advancing:

The Canadian Indicator Framework ambition of "Canada fosters sustainable research and development"
The Global Indicator Framework target 9.1 "Develop quality, reliable, sustainable and resilient infrastructure, including regional and transborder infrastructure, to support economic development and human well-being, with a focus on affordable and equitable access for all"; and 9.4 "By 2030, upgrade infrastructure and retrofit industries to make them sustainable, with increased resource-use efficiency and greater adoption of clean and environmentally sound technologies and industrial processes, with all countries taking action in accordance with their respective capabilities"

SDTC's investments in clean technology projects will accelerate the transition towards a more sustainable, resilient and innovative Canadian economy.

Note: Detailed results for SDTC for the 2022 calendar year will be available in April 2024.

Canada's Connectivity Strategy and Universal Broadband Fund

The strategy, High Speed Access for All: Canada's Connectivity Strategy committed to connecting 95% of Canadians by 2026 to high speed internet, and 100% of Canadians by 2030. With the launch of the Universal Broadband Fund (UBF), this target was accelerated to 98% of Canadians by 2026.

Canada's Connectivity Strategy contributes to advancing:

The Canadian Indicator Framework ambition of "Canadians have access to modern and sustainable infrastructure"
The Canadian Indicator Framework target 9.3 "By 2026, 98% of Canadian homes and small businesses have access to Internet speeds of 50 Mbps download/10 Mbps upload, with the goal of connecting all Canadians to these speeds by 2030."
The Global Indicator Framework target 9.1 "Develop quality, reliable, sustainable and resilient infrastructure, including regional and transborder infrastructure to support economic development and human well-being, with a focus on affordable and equitable access for all."

The UBF contributes to advancing:

The Canadian Indicator Framework ambition of "Canadians have access to modern and sustainable infrastructure"
The Canadian Indicator Framework target 9.3 "By 2026, 98% of Canadian homes and small businesses have access to Internet speeds of 50 Mbps download/10 Mbps upload, with the goal of connecting all Canadians to these speeds by 2030."

The Global Indicator Framework target 9.1 "Develop quality, reliable, sustainable and resilient infrastructure, including regional and transborder infrastructure to support economic development and human well-being, with a focus on affordable and equitable access for all."

Canada's Connectivity Strategy and Universal Broadband Fund continued to support and invest towards building resilient, modern, and sustainable infrastructure.

In 2022-23, Canada's Connectivity Strategy continued to increasingly provide Canadians with access to high-speed and reliable Internet, putting the government on track to exceed its target to provide access to 98% by 2026. By providing Canadians with access to Internet to participate in and advance innovation, as well as with access to Canada's sustainable and modern infrastructures to benefit from them, the Strategy advances the goal of building strong and resilient communities.

The Universal Broadband Fund, continued to contribute to the inclusive industrialization of the country in increasingly funding projects that connect all Canadians and further an inclusive transition to more modern and sustainable industrialization. This includes funding up to $750 million for large, high-impact projects; and up to $50 million for mobile projects that primarily benefit Indigenous peoples, 262 announced projects, 6 broadband co-funding agreements with provinces that leverages an additional $2 billion in provincial funding, in addition to 2 new projects under the mobile stream, to improve mobile connectivity.

Canada Digital Adoption Program

The new Canada Digital Adoption Program (CDAP) will help small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) boost their e-commerce presence and digitize how they run their businesses behind the scenes. The program provides funding and expertise to businesses, as well as training and work opportunities for young Canadians.

CDAP contributes to advancing:

The Canadian Indicator Framework ambition of "Canadians have access to modern and sustainable infrastructure"

In 2022-23, CDAP continued to advance the transition towards sustainable and modern industrialization, resilient infrastructure, and increasing innovation. CDAP Grow Your Business Online Stream disbursed over $32 million in grants to over 7,600 small businesses ($17.3 million) and in e-commerce advisor work placements for students and recent graduates ($14.8 million). In providing access to tools and information on the benefits of digital adoption to more than 20,000 SMEs through its interactive digital needs-assessment tool, CDAP is fostering innovation and building resilient digital infrastructure.

By supporting individuals with these resources, more than 9,000 SMEs have signed grant agreements through the CDAP Boost Your Business Technology Stream, and have begun their digital adoption journey. The program has also successfully disbursed over 3,300 grants to SMEs, representing $47.6 million to support the cost of developing their digital adoption plans, contributing to the achievement of increasing innovation. Through its funding, expertise, resources, and opportunities provided, CDAP plays a contributing and supporting role in the transition.

SDG 12: Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns

Canadian Plastics Innovation

The Government of Canada is working with all levels of government, industry, non-government organizations, academia and Canadians to take action on plastic waste and pollution to meet Canada's target of zero plastic waste by 2030. Important aspects of this agenda include investing in research through Canada's Plastics Science Agenda, in innovation through a series of Canadian plastics Innovation Challenges, and in community action through the Zero Plastic Waste Initiative.

Canadian Plastics Innovation Challenge contributes to advancing:

The Canadian Indicator Framework ambition of "Canadians consume in a sustainable manner".
The Global Indicator Framework target 12.5 of "By 2030, substantially reduce waste generation through prevention, reduction, recycling and reuse"

In regards to SDG 12, the Canadian Plastic Innovation Challenge is a tool to advance Canada's Plastics Science Agenda. These challenges were sponsored by various departments that are accountable for this agenda, through ISC as an enabler.

In 2022-23, ECCC sponsored one challenge launch titled Plastics challenge: Mitigating the release of microplastics from tire wear. In 2022-23, a total of 10 awards valued at $7M were issued resulting from six plastic challenges, sponsored by five government departments (ECCC, NRC, GAC, TC, and SSC). For the results of these challenges, the sponsoring departments should be consulted.

The work of the Office of Consumer Affairs to empower consumers with information:

The Government of Canada is working to ensure sustainable consumption and production through a number of initiatives, including by providing consumers with information and tools they need to be able to practice informed sustainable consumption. By empowering consumers with information, the Office of Consumer Affairs is supporting voluntary action to reduce environmental impacts and promote clean growth.

The work of the Office of Consumer Affairs to empower consumers with information contributes to advancing:

The Canadian Indicator Framework ambition of "Canadians consume in a sustainable manner".
The Global Indicator Framework target 12.8 of "By 2030, ensure that people everywhere have the relevant information and awareness for sustainable development and lifestyles in harmony with nature."

The total number of visitors to ISED's sustainable consumption pages for FY 2022-23 was 13,757 (from 10,593 in 2021-2022).

By providing information on how consumers can make environmentally friendly choices when participating in the marketplace, the Office of Consumer Affairs is encouraging Canadians who access its web offerings to consume products and services in a way that is sustainable; thus supporting voluntary action to reduce environmental impacts.

SDG 13: Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts

Sustainable Development Technology Canada

Sustainable Development Technology Canada (SDTC) helps Canadian companies develop and demonstrate new environmental technologies that address climate change, clean air, clean water and clean soil.

SDTC contributes to advancing:

The Canadian Indicator Framework ambition of "Canadians reduce their greenhouse gas emissions"
The Canadian Indicator Framework target 13.1 of "By 2030, reduce Canada's total greenhouse gas emissions by 40 to 45%, relative to 2005 emissions levels. By 2050, achieve economy-wide net-zero greenhouse gas emissions"
The Global Indicator Framework target 13.3 of "Improve education, awareness-raising and human and institution capacity on climate change mitigation, adaptation, impact reduction and early warning."

SDTC continued to identify and support Canadian companies in developing competitive clean technologies that address climate change, clean air, clean water and clean soil. In 2022-23, SDTC invested $133 million in 115 new projects across Canada, which all supported the Canadian cleantech ecosystem. SDTC also continued to manage the Next Generation Biofuels Fund, which supports the demonstration of next generation renewable fuel production facilities. SDTC funded companies were also responsible for reducing an estimated 24.75 megatonnes in GHG (Green House Gas) emissions in 2022-23.

SDTC's commitment towards developing and funding in clean technology projects, including managing a biofuels fund, will contribute in tackling climate change and mitigating its impact in Canada.

Table of Contents

Reporting on Green Procurement

Details on transfer payment programs

TPPs with total actual spending of $5 million or more

Admare Bio Innovations (formerly the Centre for Drug Research and Development)

Black Entrepreneurship Program (BEP): Knowledge Hub and Loan Fund

Canada Digital Adoption Program – Stream 1

Canada Digital Adoption Program – Stream 2

Canada Foundation for Innovation

Canada Foundation for Sustainable Development Technology

Canada Small Business Financing Program

Canada's Advanced Research and Innovation Network (CANARIE Inc)

Canadian Institute for Advanced Research (CIFAR)

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

CanCode

Connect to Innovate Program

Digital Research Infrastructure

Digital Skills for Youth

Diverse and Inclusive Economy Program

Futurpreneur Canada

Genome Canada

Global Innovation Clusters (formerly known as Innovation Superclusters Initiative)

Institute for Quantum Computing

Let's Talk Science

Mitacs Inc.

National Artificial Intelligence Institutes

Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics

Small Business and Entrepreneurship Development Program – General Fund

Stem Cell Network

Strategic Innovation Fund (SIF)

Technology Demonstration Program

Tourism Relief Fund

Universal Broadband Fund

Women Entrepreneurship Strategy (WES)

TPPs with total actual spending of less than $5 million

Affordable Access Initiative (now known as Connecting Families Initiative)

Business/Higher Education Roundtable

Computers for Schools

Computers for Schools Intern Program

Coordinated Accessible National Health Network

Council of Canadian Academies

Cyber Security Innovation Network

Dedicated Computing Capacity in Artificial Intelligence

Digital Literacy Exchange Program

ElevateIP

Indigenous Intellectual Property Program

Innovative Solutions Canada

Intellectual Property Strategy – IP Legal Clinics

International Telecommunication Union

Internal Trade Secretariat Corporation

National Center for Indigenous Law at the University of Victoria

Organisation for Economic Co-Operation and Development

Praxis Spinal Cord Institute

Program for Non-profit Consumer and Voluntary Organizations

Radio Advisory Board of Canada

Strategic Activities Program

Strategic Aerospace and Defence Initiative

Support for Women Entrepreneurs Program – Women Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub

Telesat Low Earth Orbit Capacity (LEO)

Upskilling for Industry Initiative

Gender-based analysis plus

Section 1: Institutional GBA Plus Capacity

Governance

Changes to Governance Structure/Resourcing Levels

Initiatives

GBA Plus Annual Report

GBA Plus Network Refresh

Incorporating Intersectional Considerations

Section 2: Gender and Diversity Impacts, by Program

Core Responsibility: People, Skills and the Community

Bridging Digital Divides

Target Population:

Program Goals:

Target Population:

Distribution of Benefits:

Specific Demographics Group Outcomes:

Key Impacts:

Other key program impacts on gender and diversity:

Supplementary Information Sources: