Let's be honest. When you hear "AI" and "government funding" in the same sentence, it’s easy to be skeptical. You might think it’s only for massive corporations, requires a team of PhDs to apply, or that the technology is too disruptive for your current operations.

What if that's a misconception?

What if this is less about intimidating technology and more about giving your company a powerful competitive edge? A new initiative is underway to do just that,

A $35M Fund is Available for Canadian Manufacturers. Here’s How to Get It.

A new program aims to be more direct. NGen, Canada's advanced manufacturing hub, has put a significant amount of capital on the table to help companies like yours innovate and grow.

NGen is co-investing $35 million in federal funds as part of a push to launch $87.5 million in new innovation projects across Canada.

This program, called the Advanced Manufacturing 2025 Challenge, supports collaborative business projects that commercialize and scale-up new manufacturing capabilities. The goal is to fund practical, impactful projects that are ready to move from concept to reality.

What is NGen?

NGen (Next Generation Manufacturing Canada) is the non-profit organization leading Canada's Global Innovation Cluster for Advanced Manufacturing. Its primary role is to build a strong manufacturing ecosystem by connecting companies, technology providers, and researchers. Through strategic funding, NGen helps Canadian companies adopt the technology needed to compete globally.

You can learn more about Canada's Innovation Cluster Here.

Eligibility: The Core Requirements

Here are the key points you need to know to determine if you are eligible to apply.

• Partnership is Required: You cannot apply alone. Your project must involve a partnership between at least two Canadian industry collaborators.

• SMEs are Necessary: At least one partner in your project must be a Small or Medium-sized Enterprise (SME) with fewer than 500 employees.

• Balanced Funding: No single partner can receive more than 70% of the NGen reimbursement.

• Project Focus: Your project must be transformative, applied, and have a clear path to commercialization.

• Eligible Organizations: Your company must be incorporated in Canada with a value-added presence. This includes for-profit businesses, specific not-for-profits, non-federal Crown corporations, and Indigenous organizations.

Why This Fund is Critical for Canada's Economy

This initiative is a strategic investment in Canada's economic future.

The manufacturing sector is a cornerstone of our economy, employing 1.7 million Canadians and contributing massively to our GDP. To maintain this strength, the industry must innovate. This program de-risks the investment required to adopt advanced technologies, helping Canadian companies stay competitive. A stronger domestic manufacturing sector means a more resilient national economy and the creation of high-value jobs for Canadians.

Final Thoughts from Fello

Having seen this process firsthand, I believe that now is the time for Canada to take charge of its manufacturing future. If you are a company looking to bring a new technology to market, this is the partner for you.

We found NGen to be a fantastic collaborator. Beyond just the funding, the team at NGen is incredibly resourceful and genuinely helpful, providing support that is crucial for success. For any business focused on commercialization, working with NGen is a powerful next step.

Your Next Move

This is a significant opportunity to fund a major technological leap for your business, enhance your operations, and gain a competitive advantage.

Given that today is June 25, 2025, it's crucial to act promptly. Deadlines for funding programs can approach quickly. Visit the official NGen website to confirm timelines and begin your application process.

To learn more, visit the official NGen Advanced Manufacturing 2025 page. The future of Canadian manufacturing is being built today.