Deadline: 11-Mar-2026
The Pilot Fund accelerates collaborative research in image-guided therapy technologies by integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced data analytics. Canadian corporations, academic institutions, and non-profits can receive CAD 100,000–150,000 to explore AI-driven solutions, improve clinical outcomes, and prepare technologies for commercialization within 9–12 months.
Overview of the Pilot Fund
The Pilot Fund is a targeted funding initiative designed to support collaborative research and development (R&D) projects in image-guided therapy technologies. Its primary goal is to help teams integrate artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced data capabilities into healthcare technology, bridging the gap between innovation and commercialization.
Key objectives include:
-
Enhancing precision and efficiency in image-guided therapies using AI.
-
Supporting industrial research to create knowledge for technology-driven products or services.
-
Advancing large-scale technology demonstrations that translate research into product-specific applications.
Role of Artificial Intelligence in the Pilot Fund
Artificial intelligence is central to this initiative. Funded projects are expected to incorporate AI for:
-
Intelligent algorithms: Developing AI models to optimize therapy planning and execution.
-
Data-driven decision support: Using imaging and patient data to guide clinical decisions in real time.
-
Predictive modeling: Forecasting outcomes to improve therapy effectiveness and patient safety.
-
Process automation: Streamlining complex workflows and reducing manual intervention.
By integrating AI, projects can achieve more precise targeting, faster imaging analysis, and scalable clinical applications, making technologies ready for commercialization.
Funding Details
-
Funding Amount: CAD 100,000 – 150,000 per project
-
Funding Contribution: INOVAIT provides up to one-third of eligible project costs via reimbursement.
-
Project Duration: 9–12 months
-
Project Timeline: Projects can start no earlier than April 1, 2026, and must conclude by June 30, 2027
-
Purpose: Explore innovative AI solutions and prepare for larger-scale commercialization
Who is Eligible?
The Pilot Fund is open to:
-
Canadian corporations
-
Academic institutions
-
Not-for-profit organizations
Project requirements:
-
Must include a Project Lead and 1–3 additional Project Partners.
-
At least one Ultimate Recipient must be a Canadian SME.
-
Industry collaborators already leading a selected Focus Fund project cannot act as Ultimate Recipients in this call.
How the Pilot Fund Works
-
Form a Project Team: Include a Project Lead and 1–3 partners.
-
Define the Project Scope: Focus on AI-driven improvements to image-guided therapy technologies.
-
Budget Planning: Request CAD 100,000–150,000 with clear cost breakdown; INOVAIT covers up to one-third of eligible costs.
-
Project Timeline: Plan activities within a 9–12 month period, starting April 1, 2026.
-
Funding Application: Submit a detailed proposal highlighting AI integration, expected outcomes, and commercialization potential.
-
Project Execution: Implement AI models, perform industrial research, or conduct technology demonstration.
-
Reporting & Reimbursement: Track project expenses and report to INOVAIT for eligible reimbursement.
Why It Matters
The Pilot Fund accelerates the development of AI-driven therapies, enhancing clinical precision, efficiency, and patient outcomes. It supports collaborative R&D, helping small and medium Canadian enterprises scale innovations into commercially viable products.
Benefits of participating:
-
Early-stage funding for AI healthcare projects
-
Support for commercialization preparation
-
Opportunities to collaborate with academic and industry partners
-
Access to resources for AI integration and technology demonstration
Common Mistakes to Avoid
-
Incomplete team structure: Ensure at least one Canadian SME is an Ultimate Recipient.
-
Scope mismatch: Projects must focus on AI-driven image-guided therapy, not unrelated technologies.
-
Overestimating funding needs: Funding covers only up to one-third of eligible costs.
-
Timeline errors: Projects must finish by June 30, 2027.
-
Duplicate applications: Industry collaborators already leading Focus Fund projects cannot apply as Ultimate Recipients.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can international organizations apply?
No. Only Canadian corporations, academic institutions, and non-profits are eligible.
2. What types of AI projects are supported?
Projects using AI for intelligent algorithms, predictive modeling, data-driven decision support, or automation in image-guided therapy are eligible.
3. How much funding can be requested?
Between CAD 100,000 and 150,000 per project, with INOVAIT funding up to one-third of eligible costs.
4. Who must be included in the project team?
A Project Lead and 1–3 Project Partners, with at least one Ultimate Recipient being a Canadian SME.
5. What is the project duration?
9–12 months, starting no earlier than April 1, 2026, and ending by June 30, 2027.
6. Are industry collaborators on Focus Fund projects eligible?
No, they cannot participate as Ultimate Recipients in this Pilot Fund call.
7. What is the main goal of the Pilot Fund?
To accelerate AI-driven image-guided therapy projects from research to commercialization.
Conclusion
The Pilot Fund offers a strategic opportunity for Canadian organizations to innovate in image-guided therapy using AI. By supporting early-stage projects with clear commercialization potential, it bridges the gap between research, technology demonstration, and market-ready healthcare solutions. Organizations participating can advance clinical outcomes, scale technology solutions, and strengthen Canada’s leadership in AI-driven medical innovations.
For more information, visit INOVAIT.
