From Innovate BC Ignite to federal IRAP CleanTech, BC companies can access 26 clean technology funding programs. We classify each one honestly — grants vs forgivable loans vs programs. SDTC wound down in 2025 — we show you what replaced it.
Here is what you need to know about clean technology funding in British Columbia: there are 26 programs available, but they are not all grants. Of the 26, roughly 15 are non-repayable grants, 5 are forgivable loans (conditionally repayable), 3 are programs or services (no cash), and 3 are investment vehicles. The biggest grant opportunities are IRAP CleanTech ($100K–$500K), Innovate BC Ignite ($300K), and Energy Innovation Program ($4M). The biggest overall funding comes from the Strategic Response Fund ($50M), which is a forgivable loan.
BC clean technology grants are government funding programs for businesses developing or deploying technologies that reduce environmental impact, administered through Innovate BC, NRC IRAP, Natural Resources Canada, and Pacific Economic Development Canada (PacifiCan).
The 26 programs divide into two tiers. The one BC-specific program is Innovate BC Ignite (up to $300K, currently closed — next intake expected mid-2026). Federal programs include NRC IRAP CleanTech ($100K–$500K ongoing), standard IRAP (up to $1M), Energy Innovation Program (up to $4M), Smart Renewables and Electrification Pathways ($50M per project), Strategic Response Fund (up to $50M forgivable loan), RTRI (up to $1M for tariff-affected exporters), and the NSERC research collaboration grants.
Key context: Sustainable Development Technology Canada (SDTC) was wound down in 2025. Its mandate was partially transferred to the Canada Growth Fund (an investment vehicle, not a grant) and NRC IRAP CleanTech. BC companies that previously relied on SDTC should now focus on IRAP CleanTech, Energy Innovation Program, and Strategic Response Fund as the primary replacement pathways. PacifiCan BSP ($200K–$5M) is frequently listed as a grant but is a repayable loan — honest classification provided for every program below.
| Program | Amount | Type | Repayable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Innovate BC Ignite | Up to $300K | Grant | No |
| IRAP CleanTech | $100K–$500K | Grant | No |
| Strategic Response Fund | Up to $50M | Forgivable Loan | Conditionally |
| PacifiCan BSP | $200K–$5M | Loan | Yes |
Here are the numbers that matter for BC cleantech companies looking for funding. The landscape changed significantly in 2025 when SDTC was wound down, and several new programs launched to fill the gap. Understanding which programs are grants versus loans is the most important distinction you can make before investing time in applications.
Every program classified honestly. Green border = non-repayable grant. Amber border = repayable loan. Purple border = forgivable loan. Blue border = program/service.
Here is how to read the program cards below. Each card shows the funding type, amount, administering body, and deadline status. Programs are organized in two tiers: BC-specific first, then federal. The border colour tells you immediately whether you are looking at a grant (green), a loan (amber), a forgivable loan (purple), or a program that provides services rather than cash (blue). Pay close attention to the distinction — several programs that are widely called “grants” are actually loans.
Programs administered by the Province of British Columbia through Innovate BC.
Innovate BC Ignite is BC's flagship provincial grant for technology companies, including clean technology. It provides non-repayable funding for R&D, product development, and commercialization activities. The program specifically targets BC-incorporated companies in technology, clean technology, and natural resources sectors. Applications are evaluated on innovation, market potential, team strength, and BC economic impact.
Ignite is the only BC-specific non-repayable grant for cleantech companies. While federal programs are larger, Ignite's provincial focus means less competition and faster decisions. Use it to bridge the gap between early R&D (funded by IRAP) and commercialization. Stack with SR&ED for maximum coverage.
National programs available to BC clean technology companies through federal agencies.
IRAP CleanTech is the dedicated stream within NRC IRAP for clean technology projects. It provides non-repayable contributions for R&D labour costs, with cleantech-specific evaluation criteria including environmental benefit quantification. This program partially fills the gap left by SDTC's closure. BC companies benefit from strong regional IRAP presence in Vancouver and Victoria.
The standard IRAP program provides non-repayable grants for any technology-driven R&D project by a Canadian SME (under 500 employees). Cleantech companies can use standard IRAP for projects that are technology-focused but where the primary innovation is not specifically environmental. Many BC cleantech companies use both IRAP streams across different projects.
Official IRAP page →RTRI was created specifically in response to 2025 US tariffs. It funds market diversification for affected Canadian exporters, including cleantech companies that sell equipment, services, or technologies to US customers. Eligible costs include market research, trade missions, product adaptation, and marketing in alternative markets (EU, Asia-Pacific). BC cleantech exporters affected by tariffs should apply early — competition will be high.
Official RTRI page →NSERC Alliance grants fund collaborative research between industry and universities. For BC cleantech, this means partnering with UBC, SFU, UVic, or UNBC researchers to advance your clean technology. NSERC contributes up to $1M/year while the company provides matching cash and in-kind contributions. The company retains IP rights. Rolling intake means no deadline pressure.
ARD grants fund applied research with college or polytechnic partners (BCIT, VCC, Douglas College, etc.). Smaller than Alliance grants but easier to access, ARD is ideal for cleantech companies that need practical testing, prototyping, or product refinement rather than fundamental research. The college partner applies; the company contributes cash matching.
NSERC ARD page →CIIP funds collaborative R&D projects between Canadian and international companies. For BC cleantech, this is relevant if you are co-developing technology with partners in the EU, Israel, India, Japan, or other markets with active streams. The co-innovation stream ($600K) requires a matched international partner.
CIIP details →The Energy Innovation Program funds R&D and demonstration of clean energy technologies including renewable energy, smart grid, energy efficiency, carbon capture, and hydrogen. This is one of NRCan's flagship cleantech programs. BC companies working on clean energy innovation should monitor the EIP page for new calls for proposals — when a call opens, move fast.
Energy Innovation Program →| R&D Grant | Max Amount | Eligibility | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| IRAP CleanTech | $500K | SME, clean tech R&D | Ongoing |
| IRAP Standard | $1M | SME, any tech R&D | Ongoing |
| Energy Innovation | $4M | Energy tech R&D | Call-specific |
| NSERC Alliance | $1M/yr | Needs university partner | Rolling |
SREPs supports clean electricity projects including renewable energy generation, energy storage, grid modernization, and electrification. BC's existing hydroelectric base makes the province an ideal candidate for grid modernization and energy storage projects. This is the largest non-repayable federal cleantech program by maximum project value.
SREPs program page →ZEVIP supports the deployment of electric vehicle charging and hydrogen refueling infrastructure. BC has one of Canada's highest EV adoption rates, making infrastructure projects particularly viable. The original $5M stream is closed; the current Transportation Corridor Pilot focuses on highway and corridor charging gaps.
ZEVIP details →The Green Jobs STIP provides wage subsidies of up to 75% for hiring interns in clean technology and environmental roles. This is an excellent way for BC cleantech startups to hire junior talent affordably while developing the next generation of cleantech workers. Apply through delivery partner organizations.
Green Jobs program →STDP funds space technology development including satellite-based renewable energy monitoring, remote sensing for environmental assessment, and satellite communications for remote clean energy installations. BC companies at the intersection of space technology and clean energy qualify. Annual calls for proposals.
STDP program →HARVEST supports commercialization of genomics-based solutions in agriculture and clean technology. For BC, this includes bioremediation, bio-based materials, carbon sequestration monitoring, and sustainable forestry genomics. Projects must involve genomics moving from research to commercial application.
HARVEST program →GAPP funds the application of genomics to solve real-world challenges, including environmental monitoring, bio-based manufacturing, and sustainable resource management. Larger than HARVEST, GAPP supports more mature projects with clear pathways to adoption.
GAPP program →GCWood supports the use of wood in construction as a climate change mitigation strategy. BC is Canada's leading producer of mass timber (CLT, glulam) and has pioneered tall wood buildings. The program funds demonstration projects, engineering studies, and building code advancement for wood construction.
GCWood program →A small but non-repayable grant for women-founded technology startups, including cleantech. Cohort-based with mentorship and investor introductions. Available to BC-based companies. The amount is modest, but the network access and profile-raising can be valuable.
Fierce Founders →Programs that involve repayable components, investment capital, or services rather than grants. Classified honestly.
The Strategic Response Fund (formerly SIF) is the largest single funding source for BC cleantech projects. It supports large-scale transformative projects in clean technology, innovation, and industrial decarbonization. Contributions are conditionally repayable — terms vary by project. A mandatory consultation meeting is required before submitting a Statement of Interest.
The Clean Fuels Fund supports development of domestic clean fuel production — biofuels, hydrogen, synthetic fuels, and renewable natural gas. For BC, this is relevant to hydrogen production (leveraging BC Hydro's clean grid), biodiesel from forestry waste, and renewable natural gas from agricultural operations. Contributions are conditionally repayable.
Clean Fuels Fund →THIS IS A REPAYABLE LOAN, NOT A GRANT. PacifiCan BSP provides conditionally repayable contributions for BC businesses scaling up. While terms are better than a bank loan (interest-free during the project, repayment conditional on success), you must repay if the project succeeds. Many websites incorrectly list PacifiCan BSP as a grant.
RHII supports homebuilding innovation including energy-efficient construction, prefabrication, and clean technology integration in housing. BC companies developing green building technologies, modular housing with clean energy integration, or construction waste reduction technologies should investigate this program.
RHII details →The Net Zero Accelerator sunset on November 4, 2025 and is no longer accepting applications. It has been folded into the Strategic Response Fund. BC companies that were planning to apply should redirect to SIF (program #17 above) for similar large-scale decarbonization funding.
BDC's Cleantech Practice makes equity investments in cleantech companies, not grants. This is venture capital — BDC takes an ownership stake. The Climate Tech Fund II closed in 2025 to new investments. Future fund vehicles may open. If you need growth equity rather than grants, BDC is a potential source, but understand that equity dilution is the cost.
BDC Cleantech →CDL provides no direct funding but offers structured mentorship from successful entrepreneurs and introductions to angel and VC investors. The Climate stream is relevant for BC cleantech startups. CDL-UBC operates locally. This is a program, not a grant — include it in your ecosystem strategy, not your funding stack.
CDL website →EDC provides trade finance, export credit insurance, and international buyer connections for Canadian companies selling abroad. For BC cleantech exporters, EDC can de-risk international sales with buyer credit, performance guarantees, and accounts receivable insurance. Not a grant, but an important part of the export toolkit.
EDC programs →The Ocean Supercluster funds ocean technology innovation, including clean technology for marine applications: ocean monitoring, sustainable aquaculture, marine energy, and ocean-based carbon capture. BC's extensive coastline and marine industry make this relevant for companies at the intersection of ocean and clean technology.
Ocean Supercluster →Various funding initiatives under the Ocean Protection Plan support marine safety, environmental protection, and clean technology for ocean applications. BC's marine corridor (Vancouver port, Salish Sea, Northern BC coast) is a focus area. Funding varies by initiative and intake period.
Ocean Protection Plan →Match your immediate need to the right program. Most companies should pursue multiple simultaneously.
Three realistic funding stacks for different BC cleantech company stages. All figures assume the 75% total government assistance cap.
All non-repayable. SR&ED only applies to expenses not covered by IRAP. Green Jobs requires hiring through a delivery partner.
All non-repayable. Each program covers different project phases/expenses. NSERC requires university collaboration with matching industry contribution.
SIF contribution ($10M) is conditionally repayable — not a grant. RTRI ($1M) is non-repayable. Total government assistance stays within the 75% cap across all components.
Here is the step-by-step process for BC clean technology companies. The most important first step is getting an IRAP Industrial Technology Advisor assigned to your company. Your ITA becomes your navigator across the entire federal funding landscape and can identify programs you would not find on your own. Start there, then build outward.
Call the Vancouver or Victoria NRC IRAP office and request an ITA specializing in clean technology. This is the single most valuable step. Your ITA will assess your technology, map your eligibility, and guide applications across federal programs.
Before any application, quantify your technology's benefit: tonnes of CO2e reduced, kWh saved, water conserved, or waste diverted. Every cleantech program requires environmental claims backed by data. Use lifecycle assessment methodology where possible.
Your ITA will recommend which IRAP stream fits. IRAP CleanTech: $100K–$500K for clean technology R&D. Standard IRAP: up to $1M for broader tech R&D. Approval typically takes 6–12 weeks.
Claim the SR&ED tax credit on R&D expenditures not covered by IRAP. CCPCs get a 35% refundable ITC on the first $3M of eligible R&D. File within 18 months of your fiscal year-end. Use the SR&ED calculator to estimate your credit.
Monitor innovatebc.ca for the next intake (expected mid-2026). Pre-build your application: technology description, market validation, team qualifications, BC economic impact. Being ready when intake opens gives you a significant advantage.
Map all programs you will pursue. Ensure total government assistance stays below 75% per project. Disclose all other funding in every application. Different programs can cover different expenses within the same overall project.
As your company grows: Energy Innovation ($4M), Smart Renewables ($50M), or Strategic Response Fund ($50M forgivable loan). These require extensive documentation and 3–6 month timelines. Start preparing early.
After approval, track all expenses meticulously. IRAP requires monthly claims with detailed timesheets. Federal programs require quarterly or milestone reports. Keep a dedicated folder per program. Your ITA can help navigate reporting.
Six myths that cost BC cleantech companies money and time.
Scroll horizontally on mobile. Sorted by relevance to BC cleantech companies.
| Program | Type | Max Amount | Best For | Repayable? | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| IRAP CleanTech | Grant | $500K | Cleantech R&D | No | Ongoing |
| IRAP Standard | Grant | $1M | Any tech R&D | No | Ongoing |
| Innovate BC Ignite | Grant | $300K | BC tech companies | No | Closed (mid-2026) |
| Energy Innovation | Grant | $4M | Clean energy R&D | No | Call-specific |
| Smart Renewables | Grant | $50M | Clean electricity | No | Intake-based |
| NSERC Alliance | Grant | $1M/yr | University collab | No | Rolling |
| RTRI | Grant | $1M | Tariff-affected | No | Ongoing |
| Green Jobs STIP | Subsidy | 75% wages | Hiring interns | No | Rolling |
| Strategic Response Fund | Forg. Loan | $50M | Large projects | Conditionally | Continuous |
| Clean Fuels Fund | Forg. Loan | $1.5B total | Clean fuel production | Conditionally | Ongoing |
| PacifiCan BSP | Loan | $5M | Business scale-up | Yes | Periodic |
| BDC Cleantech | Equity | $15M | Growth capital | Equity dilution | Fund II closed |
| Program | Amount | Eligibility | Repayable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Innovate BC Ignite | $300K | BC-incorporated tech company | No |
| IRAP CleanTech | $100K–$500K | Canadian SME, cleantech R&D | No |
| SIF (Strategic Response) | Up to $50M | Large-scale projects | Conditionally |
Scenario: A 12-person cleantech company in Vancouver developing carbon capture technology for industrial applications. $800K total R&D budget over 18 months.
All four sources are non-repayable. Each covers different expenses. SR&ED only applies to R&D costs not funded by IRAP. Total government assistance (65%) is well within the 75% cap. Innovate BC Ignite timing depends on intake opening.
The numbers behind Canada’s cleantech Pacific hub.
“British Columbia’s clean energy advantage — including the cleanest electrical grid in North America — positions the province as a global leader in clean technology development and deployment. CleanBC is our roadmap to a more prosperous, balanced, and sustainable future.”— Government of British Columbia, CleanBC Framework
Below are the questions BC cleantech founders ask most often. Each answer is written to give you the specific information you need to make a decision, not marketing fluff. Where a program is commonly misunderstood (especially regarding repayability), we note it explicitly.
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