Become a Member
Member Sign In Become a Member

Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative (RAII): What Southern Ontario Businesses Need to Know

Learn how FedDev Ontario's Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative can support AI adoption, commercialization and scale-up - including eligibility, funding terms and how to apply.
Register
geo

Virtual

Artificial intelligence is changing how businesses operate, innovate and compete, but moving from an AI idea to a funded project can be difficult. Through the Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative (RAII), FedDev Ontario is supporting businesses and organizations in southern Ontario that are adopting AI, commercializing Canadian-made AI solutions, or helping SMEs access the expertise and support needed to use AI successfully. 

In this webinar, representatives from FedDev Ontario will provide a practical overview of RAII and its three streams of support:  

  • AI Adoption
  • AI Commercialization and Scale-up
  • AI Ecosystem

 
Attendees will learn who may be eligible, what types of projects and activities can be supported, key funding terms, how applications are assessed, and what organizations should prepare before applying. 

The timing is especially relevant for organizations planning near-term projects: applications are open until January 19, 2027, with a November 24, 2026 priority date for proposed projects and eligible costs beginning before March 31, 2027. The session will help attendees better understand where their project may fit and the steps required to submit a strong application.

Register

WHY ATTEND

  • Understand the three RAII funding streams and which type of project each is designed to support
  • Learn the core eligibility requirements for businesses and organizations in southern Ontario
  • Explore eligible AI adoption, commercialization, scale-up and ecosystem activities
  • Understand contribution levels, cost-sharing requirements and key funding terms
  • Learn how FedDev Ontario assesses projects and what applicants should prepare before applying
  • Ask questions directly about program fit, application readiness and next steps

Who Should Attend

This session is designed for: 

  • Southern Ontario SMEs looking to adopt or integrate AI to improve productivity, competitiveness or resilience
  • Canadian AI companies developing, validating, commercializing or scaling AI products and services
  • Business leaders evaluating AI projects that may require investment in technology, infrastructure, data, cybersecurity or expertise
  • Not-for-profit organizations and ecosystem partners supporting SMEs with AI adoption or commercialization
  • Founders, executives, innovation leaders and project teams preparing or considering a RAII application
  • Organizations looking to understand FedDev Ontario funding requirements before committing resources to an AI project