Canadian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are playing a crucial role in driving innovation and delivering solutions to address climate change. Strengthening their work not only supports Canada’s leadership in clean technologies but also helps build a sustainable and competitive economy. Regional investments are vital in turning innovative ideas into real-world benefits for Canadians.
The National Research Council of Canada Industrial Research Assistance Program (NRC IRAP) and Innovate BC have announced a joint investment of $1.5 million to support 11 B.C.-based companies piloting innovative clean technologies. The funding, delivered through the BC Fast Pilot program, aims to accelerate the development of a greener economy while fostering growth in the province’s cleantech sector.
The BC Fast Pilot program provides SMEs with the opportunity to design, build, and test their technologies at a pilot scale in real-world environments. It helps companies demonstrate the impact and value of their products, making it easier for customers to adopt new solutions. At the same time, the program reduces risks for traditional industries that are considering transitioning to clean technologies.
Leaders from federal and provincial governments, as well as partner organisations, highlighted the importance of this initiative. They emphasized that these investments strengthen sustainability, showcase B.C.’s innovative capabilities, and provide solutions to urgent environmental challenges such as emissions reduction, wildfire response, and waste management.
This marks the seventh round of funding under the BC Fast Pilot program since its launch in 2019. To date, including this round, $13 million has been invested to support 98 pilot-scale demonstration projects. The initiative continues to help B.C. innovators scale up their solutions, strengthen industries, and contribute to a cleaner, more resilient future.
