Industry Commercialization AssociatesUp to $120K for Alberta Businesses
What Is the ICA Program?
The Industry Commercialization Associates (ICA) program is a non-dilutive funding program from Alberta Innovates designed to help Alberta-based SMEs attract and retain the business talent needed to bring innovative technology products to market.
The program provides up to $120,000 per year toward salary costs for a commercialization-focused employee. This is not a loan — it is a direct contribution that you never repay, and it does not dilute your equity.
Whether you need to hire a product manager, business development lead, or market strategy specialist, the ICA program de-risks the cost of building your commercialization team while you focus on scaling your technology.
Funding Details
Here's exactly what the ICA program covers and how the funding works.
Salary Contribution
Up to $120,000/year
Covers a significant portion of the associate's annual base salary. The exact amount depends on the associate's experience and education level.
Expense Allowance
Up to $7,000/year
An annual expense allowance to cover non-salary costs incurred by the associate, such as travel, conferences, and professional development.
Program Duration
1 year (extendable to 2)
Initial one-year funding term. If your project is performing well and milestones are being met, you can apply for a second-year extension.
Company Contribution
Minimum 25% cash match
Your company must contribute at least 25% of the associate's total annual base salary. Alberta Innovates covers the remainder up to the funding cap.
Eligible Associate Roles
Who Is Eligible?
You Qualify If
- Alberta-based company with significant physical operations in the province
- For-profit corporation or partnership registered in Alberta
- Fewer than 500 full-time employees
- Less than $50 million in annual gross revenue
- Developing or commercializing innovative technology
- Can contribute minimum 25% cash toward associate salary
- No more than 2 active Alberta Innovates-funded associates
Not Eligible
- Companies headquartered outside of Alberta
- Non-profit organizations or government entities
- Companies with 500+ employees or $50M+ revenue
- Companies with more than 2 active funded associates
- Projects that don't involve technology commercialization
- Sole proprietorships
Associate Requirements
The person filling the funded role must meet these qualifications:
- Minimum bachelor's degree in a relevant field
- Focus on commercialization activities (not pure R&D)
- Can be a new hire or existing employee transitioning to a commercialization role
- Must be working on bringing an innovative technology product to market
Application Process
The ICA program operates on a continuous intake. Here's how the process works.
Initial Consultation
Connect with our team for a free eligibility assessment. We'll evaluate your company profile, technology, and commercialization needs to determine fit.
Application Preparation
We help you build a compelling application — defining the associate role, commercialization plan, project milestones, and budget that align with Alberta Innovates' criteria.
Submit via SmartSimple Portal
Your completed application is submitted through Alberta Innovates' SmartSimple online portal. We handle the technical details and ensure nothing is missed.
Review & Approval
Alberta Innovates reviews your application and may request additional information. A Technology Development Advisor is assigned to support you through the process.
Hire & Start
Once approved, sign the Investment Agreement and hire (or assign) your commercialization associate. Funding flows as monthly contributions toward the associate's salary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Don't leave $120,000 in funding on the table
Find out if your Alberta business qualifies for the ICA program in under 2 minutes. No commitment, no cost.