Critical Industrial Technologies initiative

Overview of the Critical Industrial Technologies initiative program:

The Technology Access Program offers Ontario SMEs free access to the CIT Technology Development Sites (TDSs). This program supports the development and commercialization of products and services that integrate critical technologies like 5G, AI, blockchain, robotics, quantum computing, and cybersecurity. It focuses on four key sectors: Advanced Manufacturing, Agri-Food, Construction, and Mining. SMEs can use these sites to develop, test, validate, and showcase their innovations, helping them bring disruptive products to market more quickly.

Eligibility criteria of the Critical Industrial Technologies initiative program:

• Applicant:
• SME with fewer than 500 global full-time employees.
• Registered operations in Ontario with a valid CRA business number.
• Intent to commercialize project results for Ontario's economic benefit.
• Has the expertise and resources to execute the project.
• Good financial and reporting standing with OCI.
• Critical technologies adoption in the long-term product roadmap.
• Project:
• Supports Critical Technology (5G, AI, blockchain, etc.) integration.
• Utilizes at least one Technology Development Site for testing.
• Develops or advances a new solution/product/service with commercial potential.
• Conducted in Ontario and completed within 6 months.
• Necessary certifications must be in place.
• Applicant manages Intellectual Property (IP) rights.