Why Pay Out of Pocket to Modernize When Ontario Will Help You?
If you’re a small or medium-sized business in Ontario looking to embrace digital tools, train your team, and modernize operations, there’s great news. The Ontario Centre of Innovation has two grant programs designed to support businesses like yours on the path to digital transformation.
For instance, if you run a manufacturing company in Ontario and want to implement new automation software while training your staff to use it effectively, your project may be a perfect fit for funding through the Digital Modernization and Adoption Plan (DMAP) and the Technology Demonstration Program.
These programs aim to help Ontario-based SMEs understand the benefits of digital adoption and provide them with hands-on support, coaching, and financial assistance to implement tech-forward solutions. Priorities for funding are given for businesses in the manufacturing, construction, resource production and food/beverage processing industry.
What Is the Digitalization Competence Centre (DCC)?
The DCC is an Ontario government initiative led by OCI, designed to help SMEs:
- Improve digital literacy through education, coaching, and training.
- Develop a Digital Modernization and Adoption Plan (DMAP).
- Implement new digital technologies via the Technology Demonstration Program.
These programs aim to accelerate digital adoption, enhance competitiveness, and support the growth of Ontario’s SMEs.
Program 1: Digital Modernization and Adoption Plan (DMAP)
What It Is
DMAP assists Ontario SMEs in understanding their digital needs and developing a strategic plan to adopt and implement digital technologies.
Funding Details
- Reimbursement of up to 50% of eligible costs, to a maximum of $15,000.
- Funds cover the cost of hiring an approved Digital Adoption Consultant (DAC).
Eligible Expenses
- Fees for services provided by an approved DAC from the DCC roster.
Ineligible Expenses
- Costs not directly associated with the DMAP deliverables
- Personal expenses
- Ongoing production costs
For more details on Inelgible Expenses, read more here.
Who Should Apply
Ontario-based for-profit SMEs that:
- Have between 1–499 full-time equivalent employees.
- Are incorporated federally or provincially with a valid Business Number.
Have a permanent establishment in Ontario.
Program 2: Technology Demonstration Program
What It Is
This program supports SMEs that have completed a DMAP project to adopt and implement the digital technologies identified in their plan, accelerating growth and supporting the commercialization of Ontario-made digital solutions.
Funding Details
- Reimbursement of up to 50% of eligible costs, to a maximum of $150,000.
Eligible Expenses
- Direct costs associated with the implementation of digital technologies.
- Materials, project-specific equipment, and related infrastructure.
- Overhead costs directly attributable to the project.
Ineligible Expenses
- Costs incurred outside Ontario (unless otherwise approved by OCI).
- Expenses not directly attributable to the project.
For more details on Inelgible Expenses, read more here.
Who Should Apply
- Ontario-based for-profit SMEs that:
- Have at least $500,000 in annual revenue in one of the last three tax years.
- Have between 1–499 full-time equivalent employees.
- Have completed a DMAP project.
Ready to Transform Your Business?
If you’re an Ontario-based SME ready to embrace digital transformation, the DCC’s DMAP and Technology Demonstration Program offer valuable support.
Take the first step:
- Visit the Digitalization Competence Centre to learn more.
- Apply for the DMAP program to develop your digital adoption plan.
- Upon completion, apply for the Technology Demonstration Program to implement your plan. (Ontario Centre of Innovation)
Haven’t applied for Ontario grants before, or feeling new to the grant funding landscape? If you’re interested in this program and want expert support to get started, Granted Consulting is here to help.
Use our Grant Calculator to quickly see how much funding your company may be eligible for, and take the first step toward digital transformation today.
