Industry Organizations
Submit an innovation project for evaluation. A graduate trainee does not need to be identified before applying.
This program is funded by the Government of Canada’s Employment and Social Development Program.
Talent Innovation Canada is a national not-for-profit organization connecting industry-led R&D projects with graduate researchers. Researchers gain real-world experience, while participating organizations develop new technologies, commercialize intellectual property, and strengthen R&D capacity.
Connect with graduate researchers from Canadian academic institutions.
Participating companies can own and commercialize project intellectual property.
TICAN provides up to 50% of project value for the trainee stipend or salary.
Expand your innovation workforce and connect with Canada’s graduate research community.
Projects are typically valued between $60,000 and $90,000. The industry partner contributes a minimum amount equivalent to 50% of project value. Once the industry contribution is confirmed, TICAN provides up to 50% of project value for the trainee stipend or salary.
Core environmental professional certifications
Transportation, electric vehicles, autonomous systems, aviation, logistics, infrastructure, and civilian or defence applications.
Emissions reduction, net-zero technologies, natural resources, energy, sustainable agriculture, advanced materials, water, and environmental protection.
Pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, medical devices, digital health, agricultural technology, biomanufacturing, and health-related innovation.
Semiconductors, robotics, quantum computing, telecommunications, AI, sensors, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and digital technologies.
Questions about eligibility? Contact lhaslinger@eco.ca
Pre-Matched or Unmatched
Submit a pre-matched project with a graduate trainee already identified, or submit an unmatched project and TICAN will support the search for a qualified candidate. Both the industry organization and trainee complete application forms for review.
Explore how you can participate in TICAN based on your role.
Submit an innovation project for evaluation. A graduate trainee does not need to be identified before applying.
Participate through an approved industry project. For a pre-matched project, the industry organization first submits the project proposal.
Support eligible trainees through supervision and research oversight, or contact TICAN about annual placements and partnerships.
Find answers to common questions about TICAN projects, eligibility, and participation.
A typical TICAN project is valued between $60,000 and $90,000.
No. TICAN accepts both pre-matched and unmatched projects, so you do not need to have a researcher identified before applying.
Eligible trainees include Master's students, PhD students, and post-doctoral fellows enrolled at Canadian academic institutions.
Yes. Participating organizations are required to pay a $10,000 administration fee.
TICAN program materials indicate that participating companies can own and commercialize intellectual property (IP) developed through their projects.
For general inquiries, including partnership
opportunities and eligibility questions,
please contact:
lhaslinger@eco.ca
Interested in TICAN but want to learn more before applying?
Whether you have questions about eligibility, project requirements, industry partnerships, or funding opportunities, our team is here to help.
Complete the form to connect with our team, and we’ll be happy to discuss your questions and next steps.
Hire a post-secondary student for a meaningful work placement and receive financial support toward eligible wages.
Get reimbursed for up to 50% of eligible student wages.
Eligible employers include Canadian-owned businesses, Canadian subsidiaries, and non-profits of all sizes. Placements must relate to the student's post-secondary program in STEAM or Business.
Apply as an EmployerSupport is subject to program eligibility, available placements, and approval.
Dans un esprit de respect, de réciprocité et de vérité, nous honorons et reconnaissons Moh’kinsstis, le territoire traditionnel du Traité 7 et les pratiques orales de la confédération des Pieds-Noirs : Siksika, Kainai, Piikani, ainsi que les nations Îyâxe Nakoda et Tsuut’ina. Nous reconnaissons que ce territoire abrite la Nation métisse de l’Alberta, la région 3 au sein de la patrie historique des Métis du Nord-Ouest. Enfin, nous reconnaissons toutes les nations qui vivent, travaillent et se divertissent sur ce territoire, et qui l’honorent et le célèbrent.
In the spirit of respect, reciprocity, and truth, we acknowledge that we live, work, and gather on the traditional territories of the peoples of Treaty 7, including the Blackfoot Confederacy—comprising the Siksika, Kainai, and Piikani Nations—as well as the Îyâxe Nakoda and Tsuut’ina Nations.
This land, known as Moh’kinsstis in the Blackfoot language and encompassing what is now Districts 5 and 6, is also home to the Métis Nation of Alberta, Region 3, within the historical Northwest Métis homeland.
We recognize and honour the deep connection these Nations have to the land, and we are grateful for the opportunity to share in its stewardship.
As we continue our work, we commit to learning from Indigenous knowledge systems, uplifting Indigenous voices, and fostering relationships rooted in equity, understanding, and reconciliation.
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Merci pour votre patience et compréhension pendant que nous finalisons la version améliorée du site.
We are working to launch the French site very soon!
Thank you for your patience while we finalize the new and improved version of our website.