Open Call: Regional Economic Growth through Innovation Program (Canada)

The Regional Economic Growth through Innovation (REGI) program is a funding initiative by the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) aimed at enhancing business development and innovation in Atlantic Canada. This program provides financial support to businesses and non-profit organizations to foster a dynamic and inclusive economy. Applicants should note that the program offers specific funding streams with distinct eligibility criteria and objectives. Opportunity at a Glance

- Provider: Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)

- Opportunity Type: Funding Program

- Funding Streams:

- Business Scale-up and Productivity - Regional Innovation Ecosystems

- Eligible Applicants: Businesses and non-profit organizations

- Eligible Locations: Atlantic Canada

- Funding Type: Repayable and non-repayable contributions

- Contact Hours: Monday to Thursday, 8:30 am to 4:00 pm; Friday, 8:30 am to 12:00 pm (Atlantic time)

About the Opportunity

The REGI program is designed to drive economic growth by supporting businesses and non-profit organizations. It aims to create an environment conducive to innovation and business expansion, ultimately strengthening regional economies in Atlantic Canada. The program focuses on building capacity for growth, increasing productivity, and expanding market reach both domestically and internationally. Funding and Benefits Business Scale-up and Productivity

- Purpose: Support businesses in accelerating growth, enhancing productivity, and expanding into new markets.

- Funding Type: Unsecured, interest-free repayment contributions.

- Uses of Funds:

- Business expansion - Adoption of new technologies - Product development - Market exploration Regional Innovation Ecosystems

- Purpose: Strengthen networks that support business growth and innovation, focusing on under-represented groups.

- Funding Type: Non-repayable contributions.

- Eligible Recipients: Non-profit organizations, including strategic clusters, business accelerators, and other innovation-oriented entities.

Who Is Eligible? Business Scale-up and Productivity

- Eligible Entities:

- Sole proprietorships, partnerships, and corporates - Social enterprises and co-operatives - Indigenous-owned businesses - Non-profit organizations offering business services Regional Innovation Ecosystems

- Eligible Entities:

- Post-secondary institutions - Business accelerators and incubators - Angel networks and social enterprises - Municipalities and Indigenous community-owned businesses Why This Opportunity Matters The REGI program is crucial for fostering economic resilience and innovation in Atlantic Canada. By providing financial support and building robust business networks, the program helps businesses overcome growth barriers, encourages technological adoption, and promotes inclusivity among under-represented groups such as women, Indigenous peoples, and young entrepreneurs. How to Apply

- Initial Contact: Reach out to your nearest ACOA office to discuss your project.

- Application Submission: Complete and submit the Application for Financial Assistance.

- Contact Information:

- Phone: [contact details removed]

- Email: acn-rca@acoa-apeca.gc.ca

- Inquiry Form: Available on the ACOA website.

Next Steps Eligible applicants are encouraged to review the official guidelines provided by ACOA and follow the application process as outlined. For further details and to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the funding requirements, applicants should contact ACOA directly.