The Innovation Partnership Program (IPP) helps Canadian innovators with technologies nearing commercialization connect with international partners in key markets.  

Plan ahead and be ready to apply when recruitment opens. 

Canadian companies: 

• incorporated, profit-oriented SMEs, with up to 500 full-time equivalent employees
• ready to collaborate on co-innovation opportunities with a foreign partner
• seeking to commercialize new or improved products, services, or processes
• own or co-own the intellectual property of the technology being presented
• with sufficient resources to cover the unfunded participating costs 

Other Canadian organizations (academic institutions, non-government research centres, and not for profits):  

• that maintain a focus on innovation
• have an active interest in the mission’s target industry and market
• demonstrate an added value in terms of expertise, resources, or collaboration opportunities

Businesses providing services to Canadian organizations are considered out of scope for participation in IPP missions and are not eligible for participation. This includes businesses offering visa and immigration services, trade consulting services, or those establishing business in Canada.

Participating in a TCS-led mission under the IPP can raise your company's visibility and help establish your presence in the target market to build lasting international partnerships. You’ll be able to:

• connect with local organizations, businesses, government decision-makers, peers, and the innovation community
• gain valuable insights and market intelligence on opportunities, challenges, and cultural considerations
• advance your solutions through international collaboration, co-development, adaptation, validation, and commercialization opportunities
• expand your network and access new opportunities through on-the-ground support and exposure to global innovation ecosystems

IPP missions are most effective when they align with your company's goals and stage of growth. Consider the following:

• Have I researched the market and identified potential opportunities?
• Does the format of the mission and program align with my business objectives?
• Do I have the human and financial resources to support potential co-innovation collaboration? 

Reaching out to the TCS regional office responsible for your province or territory can help you evaluate whether a particular IPP mission may support your international growth strategy.

IPP missions are typically less than a week. They involve visiting one or more cities of a region and include a curated program in the sector’s focus of the mission. 

Participants learn about doing business in the host market(s) and gain exposure to the local innovation ecosystem through:

• tailored networking opportunities 
• business-to-business (B2B) meetings 
• on-site briefings by:
  • Trade Commissioners
  • senior officials
  • local stakeholders
• market overviews with local industry and innovation experts
• site visits (R&D centers, labs, etc.) 

1. Explore upcoming missions

Browse upcoming missions by region, industry, and date to find those that align with business goals. 

2. Check your eligibility

Review the program’s eligibility criteria and mission requirements to determine whether your company is a good fit. 

3. Submit an application

When recruitment opens, complete and submit an application.

4. Stay informed 

Register for MyTCS to be the first to know when new opportunities go live. 
 
5. Funding for participants 
 
Canadian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) selected to take part in the delegation will be invited to apply for funding. The program covers up to 50% of eligible costs including:

• travel costs 
• conference fees
• professional services
• other direct costs 
  

6. Prepare with support

If your organization is selected, you will receive pre-mission support to help you get ready. This may include:

• pre-mission briefings 
• market intelligence
• logistical information on travel, accommodations and programming
• the opportunity to apply for grant funding

7. Follow-up and grow

Keep the momentum going by following up with contacts, nurturing relationships, and exploring the opportunities uncovered during your visit. 

• Research security: Learn how to protect your research while doing business abroad. 

• Funding and financing for international business: Funding opportunities to explore new business opportunities abroad, connect with international research and development (R&D) partners, and attract foreign investment.

• Business Benefits Finder: A tailored list of government programs and services for your business.

For more information on the Innovation Partnership Program at Global Affairs Canada, contact ipp-ppi@international.gc.ca.