Please note:
Product Demonstration Program version 2.0 is currently underway, and is closed for new applications.
Product Demonstration Program version 3.0 is launching in the fall with Expressions of Interest applications opening September 7, 2021.
Accelerating innovations to commercialization
The Product Demonstration Program is designed to de-risk the commercialization process by providing funds and coaching to high potential, high growth technology Alberta small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to commercialize their products and achieve an optimal market position to increase revenue and potentially expand into global markets.
Piloting or demonstrating new products with a “strategic partner” who could be the first buyer or influential client(s) is critical in the commercialization and scale-up pathway.
Qualified SMEs may be eligible for up to $150,000 in funding over a maximum one-year term.
Do you qualify for the Product Demonstration Program?
The program is a good fit for SMEs that:
- have a product(s) that no longer require refinement to the core technology (product is ready to pilot in an operational setting to verify product value and reduce its uncertainty).
- have a product(s) that are looking to expand sales or broaden market segments (product is ready for demonstration in an operational environment and may need to extend product core technology and/or capability);
- need to identify a potential strategic partner at Expression of Interest, and need a signed Letter of Intent from the strategic partner(s) at full proposal;
- can complete the pilot or demonstration within one year;
- can reasonably expect a first sale or distribution agreement within 18 months if the pilot is successful, and
- can reasonably expect expanded sales or distribution agreements if the demonstration is successful within 18 months.
Full program and application details can be found in the program guide under program resources below.
How the program works
This program is managed with a two-step call basis, starting with the expression of interest then a full proposal.
Product Demonstration Program version 3.0 is launching in the fall with Expressions of Interest applications opening September 7, 2021.
Application to the Product Demonstration Program call involves the following steps:
- The support of a Technology Development Advisor is required for the Product Demonstration Program.
- Technology Development Advisors provide guidance, coaching and can assess the applicant’s Product Demonstration Program readiness. They can recommend suitable alternative Alberta Innovates funding programs, and help direct the applicant to external funding opportunities. Connect with a Technology Development Advisor now!
- Applicants submit an expression of interest via our online applicant portal; and
- Applicants must identify potential strategic partner(s) at the expression of interest stage;
- Successful applicants are invited to submit a full project proposal. Applicants must have a letter of interest signed by the strategic partner(s).
The program is highly competitive, and only the highest quality projects will be considered for funding.
