Federal Funds For Business Tech

By Doug Sartori

Canada’s federal government is distributing $4 billion to businesses to help support the adoption of digital technologies.

Delivered through two different streams, the Canadian Digital Adoption Program is aimed at helping small and medium-sized businesses leverage technology to improve sales, drive operational efficiency or to better manage their business. This program is available until March 31, 2025

The Grow Your Business Online grant (See: ised-isde.canada.ca/site/canadadigital-adoption-program/en/grow-yourbusiness-online) offers up to $2,400 to help small businesses expand or establish their e-commerce presence.

The application process is streamlined and recognizes the time constraints experienced by small business owners. Almost any business can qualify for these grants.

The Boost Your Business Technology

Grant (See: ised-isde.canada.ca/site/canadadigital-adoption-program/en/boost-yourbusiness-technology-grant) is a bit more selective, with a $500,000 revenue requirement, but offers up to $15,000 to build a digital needs assessment with an expert consultant, with interest-free loans up to $100,000 available from the Business Development Corporation for implementation of consultant recommendations.

Once an application is approved, the business selects an approved consultant and, when the work is done, receives reimbursement for 90% of the cost of the needs assessment.

For businesses in Windsor Essex, there are several local options to access or execute on this funding, through various companies who can help deliver grant-funded needs assessments. Approved applicants can choose any qualified Digital Advisor to deliver their needs assessment.

According to Sabrina DeMarco — the Executive Director of the Small Business & Entrepreneurship Centre, a division of Invest WindsorEssex — their Digital Service Squad has helped 17 businesses in the region access over $40,000 in funding through Grow Your Business Online. You can learn more about the supports they offer on their website: webusinesscentre.com/en/how-we-can-help/ digital-main-street.aspx.

A well-executed adoption of digital technology can be transformative.

Digitally mature businesses are more competitive and that’s invaluable in a tough economic environment.

Doug Sartori is Owner and Principal Consultant at Parallel 42 Systems, a qualified Digital Advisor able to deliver grant-funded needs’ assessments. A software developer and database expert, Doug’s work is focused on helping organizations find success with software. Find out more about his company on: p42systems.com.