Funding

UPDATE:  May 1, 2013 - SMART is continuing to accept applications for a limited time.  There are a limited number of spots still available. Apply quickly to ensure you do not miss out on the opportunity.  The intake process is expected to close on May 31, 2013 or earlier, depending on the number of applications received. 

NOTE:  ALL PROJECTS MUST BE ABLE TO BE COMPLETED ON OR BEFORE SEPTEMBER 30, 2013.

The SMART Prosperity Now funding is to provide financial support to Southern Ontario manufacturers who will invest in product and process improvements that develop and / or expand export opportunities and global competitiveness.

SMART Prosperity Now is a program built around two components; an assessment component and project funding component.

Through the project funding component, companies will receive a contribution of 33% of eligible costs up to a maximum of $75,000, whichever is less.

The assessment component will further help companies assess the current state of operations and understand the barriers they face in the global competitive market by working with a qualified expert and tools available through the assessment program to develop a vision and strategy. The assessment component will cover 50% of the costs up to $5,000 per assessment. The findings from this assessment will allow companies to implement a project under the prosperity funding program.

SMEs previously supported through CME SMART programming will be considered eligible however cumulative funding between previous SMART program and the new Prosperity Now cannot exceed $100,000. Other government funding sources are not acceptable.

This program is open to all export or export ready manufacturers in southern Ontario according to the census map (see here).

If you missed the SMART Forum, download a copy of the most recent SMART Presentation PowerPoint where additional SMART information can be found.