As urban development accelerates, the demand for efficient, cost-effective infrastructure monitoring grows. Enter iris —a transformative player in the smart cities landscape, co-founded by Emil Sylvester Ramos and David Keaney, and supported by the resources and collaborative environment at TechPlace. iris has crafted an AI-powered solution that balances traditional, time-intensive data collection with high-cost sensor technology, empowering governments and organizations to make informed decisions that keep communities safe and infrastructure optimized.  

Bridging the Gap in Infrastructure Monitoring 

Building a Customer-Centric Solution from the Start  

TechPlace: A Catalyst for Innovation and Growth  

Driving Sustainability and Global Impact 

Scaling for a Smarter, Sustainable Future 

David and Emil recognized a critical need in infrastructure monitoring: traditional methods were slow and labour-intensive, and existing technology solutions came with high price tags. Determined to bridge this gap, they developed irisGO, an innovative Internet of Things (IoT) dashcam that captures and processes real-time data on road conditions. With built-in privacy safeguards like automatic blurring of faces and license plates, irisGO ensures data remains relevant and secure. 

This data flows seamlessly into irisCITY, a centralized platform where municipalities can visualize infrastructure needs at a glance. Through irisCITY, officials can easily pinpoint problem areas, monitor infrastructure health, and track fleet routes—all within a user-friendly interface. “We’re committed to helping cities save time, reduce costs, and enhance public safety,” shares Emil Sylvester Ramos, CEO of iris. This streamlined approach allows municipalities to make proactive, data-driven decisions, optimizing both public safety and operational efficiency. 
 

Building a Customer-Centric Solution from the Start 

Collaboration has been at the heart of iris’s journey. Before their product was fully developed, iris attracted its first clients—a testament to the value of their solution. By working closely with adopters, iris tailored its platform to fit real-world needs, ultimately creating a product that integrates seamlessly with downstream workflows of municipal teams. This customer-focused approach has been instrumental in their growth, enabling iris to refine their technology as they address evolving client demands.  

Today, iris’s impact extends far beyond Canada, with teams spanning from Canada to Spain, Panama and the Philippines. Their commitment to advancing global infrastructure aligns with the G20’s Infrastructure Working Group sustainability mandates, making iris the only Canadian company recognized in this domain—a milestone that underscores their role as a trailblazer in sustainable mobility and road safety worldwide. This international recognition highlights iris’s leadership and strengthens their commitment to reducing our environmental impact on a global scale. 

TechPlace: A Catalyst for Innovation and Growth

Since joining TechPlace, iris has leveraged a range of resources to fuel its growth, from value proposition workshops to high-impact networking opportunities. TechPlace’s living lab initiative allowed iris to successfully pilot its technology with the Town of Orangeville, where smart technology was introduced to enhance the maintenance and management of open spaces. This pilot demonstrated the practical benefits of iris’s solution in streamlining data collection for infrastructure monitoring and showcased the adaptability of IRIS’s technology—laying a strong foundation for expanding their client base across municipalities. 

Reflecting on the journey, David Keaney, CAO of iris, notes that “TechPlace has given us the support we need to refine our technology and expand our network with key stakeholders." The strategic location and collaborative environment at TechPlace offered iris a unique ecosystem for growth, where they could test, adapt and meet the diverse needs of evolving markets. 

Sustainability is an important factor in iris’s mission, and their efforts to reduce our impact on the environment have earned them recognition on an international scale. By reducing the need for frequent vehicle deployments, iris technology cuts patrol times from five hours to just two, leading to a significant reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Research from McMaster University’s Engineering Department has modeled iris’s potential for GHG reduction, highlighting the positive environmental effects of their technology. 

As the only Canadian company aligned with the G20’s infrastructure sustainability mandates, iris has set a benchmark in sustainable mobility and road safety worldwide. This international recognition underscores iris’s leadership in advancing innovative solutions for infrastructure monitoring, driving positive change across Canadian and international markets. 

iris’s ambitions extend beyond roadways and municipal infrastructure. The team is already exploring ways to support sectors such as airports, mining, and marine infrastructure, where predictive maintenance and real-time insights are equally essential. Looking ahead, iris envisions expanding its AI-driven solutions to emerging economies, bringing the benefits of data-driven decision-making to communities worldwide. In regions like the Philippines, where inadequate road maintenance and poor mobility leads to billions in economic losses each day, iris aims to reduce these economic setbacks, improve operational efficiency, and enhance road safety—helping emerging economies meet critical infrastructure needs. 

With their cutting-edge technology, a focus on sustainability, and a clear global vision, iris is transforming infrastructure management and helping cities and organizations worldwide make smarter, more sustainable choices for generations to come. 

iris: Sustainable Solutions for Smarter Cities 

Starting and growing a small business in Canada is both challenging and rewarding. Accessing the right grants can make a substantial difference in ensuring your business’s success. This guide explores some of the top small business grants available in Canada and offers valuable insights into navigating the application process. 

Various federal and provincial programs provide funding opportunities tailored to different sectors, regions, and targeted groups. From the Canada Small Business Financing Program to initiatives like Starter Company Plus, there are several options to explore. Navigating through these options can seem overwhelming, but understanding the specific criteria and application processes can simplify your journey. 

One essential step in securing a grant is thoroughly researching eligibility requirements and ensuring your business aligns with the grant's priorities. A detailed, compelling application increases your chances of receiving the financial support needed to grow your business. 

Provincial and Territorial Grant Programs 

Other Noteworthy Grants for Small Businesses 

How to Apply for Small Business Grants in Canada 

Unlock the Power of Community at TechPlace 

Grants are non-repayable funds provided by various government bodies and private organizations to support businesses at different stages. They can cover start-up costs, research, development, and expansion. These grants are offered through federal and provincial programs as well as private sector initiatives, each with specific criteria and processes.  

Federal Grants 
Federal grants, available on platforms like the Canada Business Network, offer a variety of options, from innovation funding to sector-specific support. 

Provincial Grants 
Each province has its own set of grants. For example, the Canada Small Business Financing Program in British Columbia offers financing for working capital and term loans. 

Private Sector Grants 
Private organizations also offer grants, ranging from industry-specific funds to broader business competitions. 

Identify Eligible Grants 
Tools like the Business Benefits Finder can help you find tailored grant options. 

Prepare Documentation 
Essential documents include a business plan, financial statements, and any other specific requirements outlined by the grantor. 

Submit Application 
Follow deadlines and submission guidelines closely to increase your chances of approval. 

Non-Repayable 
Grants provide essential funds without the burden of repayment. 

Business Expansion 
Helps in scaling operations, entering new markets, or improving products and services. 

The Canadian government offers various grants aimed at supporting small businesses through different stages of development and innovation. Key programs include the Industrial Research Assistance Program (IRAP) and the Strategic Innovation Fund (SIF), each tailored to specific business needs and sectors. 

Industrial Research Assistance Program (IRAP) 

Managed by the National Research Council of Canada (NRC), IRAP supports small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in developing and bringing technologies to market. Businesses can receive advisory services and financial support for research and development, technology adaptation, and commercialization. 

Eligibility for IRAP includes being an incorporated SME in Canada with fewer than 500 employees. For more detailed information, visit Business Grants and Financing. 

The SIF, managed by Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED), supports large-scale, transformative projects in sectors like technology, health, and manufacturing. The program aims to foster technology development, spur economic growth, and create jobs. 

Projects must have a strong potential for significant economic, technological, or environmental benefits. This fund is particularly geared towards initiatives that can drive forward Canada's competitive advantage in the global market. For more information, visit Grants and Funding from the Government of Canada. 

Canada offers a wide range of provincial and territorial grants tailored to support small businesses. Here’s a closer look at what’s available in Ontario, British Columbia, Quebec, and Alberta. 

Ontario provides several grants to help businesses grow. The Starter Company Plus program offers training, mentorship, and financial assistance to new or expanding businesses, equipping them with essential skills for growth.  

For more details on application processes and funding opportunities, visit the Ontario governments funding opportunities page. 

In British Columbia, small businesses can access grants through the BC Small Business Grants program, which supports innovation, job creation, and economic development. 

Notable grants include the BC Indigenous Business Investment Grant and the BC Tech Co-op Grants Program. Eligibility criteria vary depending on the grant but generally require businesses to be registered in BC with solid business plans and clear growth strategies. 

Applicants can explore more funding details and application guidelines at the BC government’s business page. 

Quebec's "Programme d’aide" offers several funding avenues, with the Programme d’aide à la création d'entreprise standing out for start-ups. This program provides financial support to new businesses with strong business plans and demonstrated potential for economic impact in Quebec. 

The province also offers sector-specific grants, particularly in technology and manufacturing, to support research and development efforts. 

Alberta’s small businesses can benefit from a variety of entrepreneurship incentives. Programs like Alberta Innovates support businesses focused on emerging technologies, with a strong emphasis on innovation. 

Additionally, the Canada-Alberta Job Grant provides funding for employee training, helping businesses cover costs related to skills development. To qualify, businesses must be registered in Alberta, and the training must directly relate to job requirements. 

Sector-specific grants provide crucial financial support tailored to distinct industries, enabling businesses to address unique challenges and opportunities. Here’s a closer look at the specialized funding available for different sectors. 

Environmental sector grants support businesses that contribute to sustainability and environmental conservation. Programs like the EcoAction Community Funding Program provide grants for projects focused on pollution reduction, energy efficiency, and biodiversity conservation. 

To qualify, applicants must demonstrate measurable environmental benefits. These grants are pivotal for businesses aiming to innovate in green technologies or enhance their sustainable practices. 

Grants in the technology sector foster R&D, innovation, and commercialization of new products and services. The Industrial Research Assistance Program (IRAP) supports SMEs by offering financial assistance for technical consultations, product development, and market research.  To qualify, businesses must be incorporated, profit-oriented, and focused on enhancing or developing technologically innovative products. 

Next Generation Manufacturing Canada (NGen) supports collaborative technology projects in manufacturing, covering up to 44.4% of project expenses, with project costs ranging from $1 million to $20 million. Eligible projects must involve a minimum of three private-sector partners, and applications are submitted through the NGen website.  

Additionally, Sustainable Development Technology Canada (SDTC) provides equity-free grants to Cleantech start-ups, helping them reach the proof-of-concept stage. Start-ups can apply through the SDTC website for detailed eligibility and application information. These initiatives are designed to bolster innovation and support businesses in vital sectors such as life sciences, agri-food, and electric vehicle technologies 

The Canadian Experiences Fund (CEF) supports projects that enhance tourism experiences in Canada, focusing on winter, Indigenous, and inclusive tourism experiences. Eligible applicants include businesses, not-for-profits, and local governments. These grants help develop unique tourism products that attract more visitors and boost economic growth. 

Canada offers several grants designed to support specific groups such as women, Indigenous people, and youth. These targeted programs provide essential funding to foster entrepreneurship and help underrepresented communities thrive. 

Women entrepreneurs in Canada can access a variety of grants aimed at promoting gender equality in business. The Women Entrepreneurship Strategy offers substantial funding to reduce barriers and increase the number of women-owned businesses in the country. 

The BDC Capital Women in Technology Fund provides venture capital for women-led tech start-ups. This fund also offers business advisory services and valuable networking opportunities to help women entrepreneurs scale their ventures. 

Grants for Indigenous entrepreneurs are tailored to support their unique business needs. The Indigenous Business Development Services offers funding for startups and business expansions, focusing on improving business conditions for Indigenous entrepreneurs. 

The Aboriginal Entrepreneurship Program provides both financial support and advisory services to promote growth and development in Indigenous communities. These programs aim to foster economic self-sufficiency among Indigenous populations by offering comprehensive business support.  

Young entrepreneurs in Canada can benefit from various grants aimed at supporting innovative business ideas. The Youth Entrepreneurship Guide helps young individuals turn their entrepreneurial dreams into reality by providing information on startup funds and advisory services designed to nurture new ventures.  

The  Scientific Research and Experimental Development (SR&ED) Tax Incentive Program helps businesses engaged in research and development by offering tax credits, reducing the financial burden of R&D efforts. Businesses must submit the appropriate forms with their tax returns to qualify. 

 Innovative Solutions Canada (ISC) supports technology research, development, and commercialization through two phases: Phase 1 offers up to $150,000 in grants, while Phase 2 provides up to $1 million. Eligible businesses can apply via the ISC website.   

To help businesses improve their workforce, the Canada-Ontario Job Grant  provides significant financial support for employee training. This program covers 50-100% of training costs, up to $15,000 per trainee, allowing businesses to access third-party training services that enhance skills. Businesses must meet specific eligibility criteria and can apply through the official program page.  

Another valuable program, the Student Work Placement Program (SWPP), encourages employers to hire post-secondary students for paid work placements. Employers can receive wage subsidies of up to $7,000 per student, making it an attractive option for integrating students into the workforce. Applications are submitted via the Magnet platform, which connects employers with students seeking work experience.  

For businesses seeking to collaborate with academic institutions, Applied Research and Development (ARD) Grants offer funding of up to $150,000 per year for R&D projects. These grants support partnerships between college researchers and businesses, fostering innovation by combining academic expertise with industry needs. The application process is typically initiated by colleges, which collaborate with partner organizations to carry out research projects that can lead to practical, real-world applications. 

This collaboration helps bridge the gap between research and industry, offering businesses access to cutting-edge knowledge and resources while promoting innovation and growth.  

Applying for small business grants in Canada involves multiple steps, from identifying suitable opportunities to ensuring all required documentation is in place. Careful planning can greatly increase your chances of securing funding. 

The process begins by identifying grants that match your business needs. Once you've found potential grants, the next steps usually involve completing an application form, submitting the required documents, and possibly attending an interview or follow-up meeting. 

Staying organized and meeting deadlines is essential to avoid missed opportunities and ensure smooth communication throughout the process.  

A strong business plan is crucial for grant applications. It should include an executive summary, a description of your business, market analysis, management structure, and detailed financial projections. 

Make sure to explain how the grant will help achieve specific business goals or milestones. Be clear and concise, as grant reviewers look for well-defined plans and objectives. 

Eligibility criteria can vary widely depending on the grant and may include factors such as business size, industry sector, and how the funds will be used. 

Commonly required documents include financial statements, business registration, proof of business address, and possibly personal financial information. Ensure that all documentation is up-to-date and accurately reflects your business's current status. 

To increase the likelihood of a successful application, follow these tips: 

Be Clear and Concise: Avoid jargon and ensure your application is easy to understand. 

Tailor Each Application: Customize each application to address the specific criteria and priorities of the grant. 

Focus on Outcomes: Highlight the expected outcomes and benefits of your project, including how it aligns with the grant's objectives. 

Seek Feedback: Before submitting, have someone review your application for clarity and completeness. 

Proofread: Ensure there are no errors in your application, as mistakes can reflect poorly on your business professionalism.  

Small Business Grants in Canada: A Detailed Guide 

Innovation is at the forefront of TechPlace, driven by visionary entrepreneurs like Joe Kutlesa who are reimagining the future. In an age where technology influences nearly every aspect of our lives, iMatr, founded by Kutlesa, emerges as a pioneering force in reshaping how citizens interact with their government. iMatr is committed to making every citizen’s voice not only heard but truly valued. With a mission to cut through the red tape, iMatr simplifies the complex and often daunting process of civic engagement, making it easier than ever for citizens to engage with their local government and share their opinions.  

Joe Kutlesa’s journey to creating iMatr was fueled by a desire to address the growing disconnect between citizens and their elected representatives. After retiring from a successful career in real estate development, Joe leveraged his background in computer science to create a platform that empowers people to engage directly with their elected officials. His keen understanding of market needs and user behavior was instrumental in shaping iMatr into a tool that makes political participation both meaningful and accessible. Designed with features like a 'report card' system, iMatr brings transparency to civic engagement by showing how active elected officials are on the platform. This system not only simplifies engagement for users but also holds politicians accountable, ensuring they remain actively engaged with their constituents. With the support of TechPlace, iMatr is on track to become a leading innovator in the civic tech space.  

iMatr is more than just a platform; it is a comprehensive solution designed to bridge the widening gap between citizens and their elected officials. The platform offers a secure and structured way for individuals to express their opinions on key political and social issues, ensuring that voices across the country are recognized and considered in the decision-making process. By leveraging advanced technologies, iMatr delivers a seamless and intuitive user experience, allowing users to engage effortlessly with topics that directly impact their communities. 

A standout feature of iMatr is personalized content delivery, which customizes discussions and issues based on the user’s geographical location. This localization feature ensures that the content is relevant and meaningful, fostering deeper engagement and connection to local issues. To ensure authenticity, iMatr employs a robust verification process by sending a physical PIN to users’ home addresses, guaranteeing that interactions are genuine and free from bots or fake accounts. This meticulous verification upholds the integrity of the data collected, providing accurate insights into public sentiment. 

Recognizing that traditional methods of political participation can often feel tedious or inaccessible, iMatr incorporates gamification to enhance user engagement. The platform transforms civic participation into an interactive and rewarding experience by integrating elements of game design. This gamified approach demystifies the political process, making it more accessible and appealing to users of all ages and encouraging a broader demographic to actively participate in democratic discourse. 

Beyond its impact on everyday citizens, iMatr’s sister company, iQed Canada, is also making significant strides in the education sector. iQed uses mobile technology to teach students about democracy in a way that goes beyond traditional textbooks and lectures. By engaging with real-world issues through an experiential learning process, students from grade five through university gain a deeper understanding of civic responsibility and the power of their voices. By educating and engaging potential voters from a young age, iQed aims to boost voter participation rates among youth, which saw a decrease of 7.2 points between 2019 and 2021. 

Joe illustrated this with the story of a Grade 5 student who used the platform to explore whether TikTok should be banned in Canada. 'She shared her opinion and then reached out to MP Larry Brock to get his perspective—that’s democracy in action,' he noted, adding, 'without this technology, a 10-year-old wouldn't have been able to engage with their MP so directly.' This hands-on approach empowers students to actively participate in simulations and real-time decision-making scenarios, ensuring they leave the classroom with practical insights into how their voices can influence the democratic process. By focusing on active learning, iQed is helping to shape the next generation of informed and engaged citizens, equipping them with the tools they need to make meaningful contributions to their communities. 

iMatr’s innovative approach has garnered attention from prestigious organizations and governments worldwide. Recently, iMatr was invited to present its DemTech technology at the US Consulate in Toronto. This technology enhances civic engagement by facilitating secure and structured digital interactions between politicians and citizens, while also providing real-time polling data. By organizing and displaying this data through various demographic lenses, the platform allows politicians and citizens alike to see the collective voice of a community. These features have not only impressed our neighbours to the south but have also earned recognition from the OECD in Paris and the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO). 

As part of the TechPlace community, iMatr has benefited from a range of resources that have supported its growth and remote work capabilities. Through TechPlace’s LaunchPad membership, iMatr has been equipped with subsidized office space, providing a dedicated environment for their growing team to collaborate and innovate in person. As a Burlington Economic Development initiative, being a member of TechPlace has allowed iMatr to create valuable connections with politicians, helping them expand their user base and increase their impact. These connections are crucial as iMatr continues to develop and refine its platform, ensuring that it meets the needs of a diverse and growing user base. 

iMatr’s long-term vision includes expanding the platform globally, with plans to enter ten countries by 2026. The company is also working on an enterprise version of iMatr designed for large organizations and municipalities, which will enable internal polling and engagement on various issues. This expansion is a testament to iMatr’s commitment to making democracy more inclusive and responsive, no matter where it is practiced. 

iMatr is more than just a platform—it is a movement towards a more engaged and informed democracy. With the support of TechPlace and its ecosystem, iMatr has rapidly expanded its capabilities, fine-tuning its approach to make civic participation more intuitive and impactful. TechPlace’s collaborative environment has offered iMatr essential peer support, strengthening their confidence to push the boundaries of what is possible in civic tech. 

As iMatr continues to grow and gain global recognition, it is set to become a leading force in civic engagement, transforming the way citizens and governments interact. Through its innovative use of gamification, personalized content, and secure digital interactions, iMatr is ensuring that democracy thrives, one voice at a time. 

iMatr Canada: Revolutionizing Civic Engagement in the Digital Age 

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Blog

iris: Sustainable Solutions for Smarter Cities

November 28, 2024

Small Business Grants in Canada: A Detailed Guide

October 23, 2024

iMatr Canada: Revolutionizing Civic Engagement in the Digital Age

September 12, 2024

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