Innovation for Defence Excellence and Security (IDEaS)

Insider Tip

IDEaS is challenge-driven -- you cannot submit unsolicited proposals. The key to success is monitoring the IDEaS opportunities index for new challenges that match your existing capabilities, not building something from scratch. The program evaluation found that commercialization is a weak spot, so proposals that articulate a clear path from prototype to operational deployment stand out. With the Defence Industrial Strategy (Feb 2026) and the DISH initiative, quantum technologies and uncrewed systems are the hot areas receiving outsized investment ($50M+ for DISH alone). The IDEaS Marketplace events (annual, Ottawa) are valuable for networking with DND stakeholders and understanding upcoming challenge themes. Component 1a ($250K, 6 months) is the best entry point -- low risk for DND, allows you to prove your concept before seeking larger Component 1b/2 funding.

Rejection Pitfalls 8

• Proposal does not directly address the specific posted challenge
• Technology is at wrong TRL for the component applied to
• Insufficient Canadian content (below 50% threshold)

Success Profile

Ideal applicant is a Canadian SME or university research group with existing defence/security domain expertise and technology at TRL 1-5. Strong track record in the specific challenge area (cyber, autonomous systems, C4ISR, counter-UAS, quantum, maritime surveillance). Companies with dual-use technology (civilian + military applications) are well-positioned. Must be able to demonstrate 50% Canadian content. Teams that have attended IDEaS Marketplace or Sandbox events have better situational awareness of DND needs. Academic-industry partnerships are particularly effective for Innovation Networks element.

Evaluation Criteria

Proposals are assessed on five criteria: (1) Relevance to the specific defence/security challenge posted, (2) Innovation and technical merit including novelty and TRL advancement, (3) Impact and benefits to DND/CAF operations, (4) Feasibility and implementation plan including timeline and risk mitigation, (5) Team qualifications and partnership strength. Each CFP may weight criteria differently. Minimum 50% Canadian content is a compliance threshold, not scored.

Application Steps

Required Documents 8

Eligible Expenses 8

• Salaries and wages for project personnel (researchers, engineers, technicians)
• Subcontracts to Canadian suppliers and partners
• Materials, consumables, and prototype components
• Equipment rental or purchase directly required for the project
• Travel costs related to project execution and DND engagement
• Testing and certification costs
• Intellectual property and patent costs related to the project
• Overhead and indirect costs (typically capped at 15-20% depending on CFP)

Ineligible Expenses 5

• Capital expenditures for permanent infrastructure or facilities
• Marketing, business development, or commercialization costs unrelated to the challenge
• Costs incurred before contract execution
• Entertainment and hospitality expenses
• Goods and services sourced outside Canada beyond the 50% Canadian content threshold

Intake Periods

Rolling challenge-based model. New CFPs are posted throughout the year for specific defence/security challenges, with no single annual deadline. The DISH CFP ran February 18 - April 2, 2026 and is closed. As of July 31, 2026 two opportunities are non-closed: "Speed meets strategy: Building Canada's hypersonic innovation network" (Innovation Networks) and "Drone surge: Scaling tactical Uncrewed Aerial Systems manufacturing for modern defence" (Contests). Monitor the IDEaS opportunities index continuously.

Deadline Notes

IDEaS operates on a rolling challenge-based model. New Calls for Proposals are posted throughout the year for specific defence/security challenges, and each call names its own submission mechanism (the 2026 DISH call ran through a BOREALIS Connect conversation, not a standing portal). As of July 31, 2026 the IDEaS opportunities index lists two non-closed opportunities: "Speed meets strategy: Building Canada's hypersonic innovation network" (Innovation Networks) and "Drone surge: Scaling tactical Uncrewed Aerial Systems manufacturing for modern defence" (Contests). The DISH CFP closed April 2, 2026. There is no single annual deadline — monitor https://www.canada.ca/en/department-national-defence/programs/defence-ideas/opportunities.html.

Open Application Portal →

Ineligible Organizations

• Federal public servants and federal government departments
• Organizations unable to meet the 50% Canadian content requirement
• Organizations subject to Canadian sanctions or controlled goods restrictions without appropriate clearance

Compatible Programs

Clawback Risk

Medium Risk