eCampusOntario Partners with Government of Canada to Advance Access to Funding in the Innovation Economy
Increasing access to federal funding programs for businesses and institutions
eCampusOntario announced today a strategic partnership with Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) to help businesses and postsecondary institutions across Ontario more easily connect with federal funding, support programs, and innovation resources through the Business Benefits Finder.
The Business Benefits Finder (BBF) is a digital tool developed by ISED that helps Canadian businesses and entrepreneurs identify government programs such as funding, advisory services, and training opportunities. eCampusOntario’s Ontario Collaborative Innovation Platform (OCIP) connects employers and postsecondary institutions to address Canada’s productivity challenges by supporting research and development, technology adoption, and workforce upskilling. By connecting BBF with OCIP, we will ensure that the businesses and postsecondary institutions participating in OCIP have direct access to a personalized list of current government programs, funding opportunities, and support services tailored to their needs.
This partnership empowers Canadian businesses to pursue research collaborations, adopt new technologies, and bring innovations to market—boosting productivity and economic growth. Postsecondary institutions benefit from increased commercialization opportunities, industry sponsorships, and the ability to mobilize their research and development (R&D) facilities, strengthening their role in driving innovation and contributing to Canada’s knowledge economy.
“This partnership supercharges OCIP to unlock opportunity for Canadian businesses and institutions,” said Robert Luke, CEO of eCampusOntario. “By connecting our member institutions and their business partners with the Business Benefits Finder, we’re helping them navigate the complex landscape of government support programs and accelerate their growth, innovation, and impact.”
“This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to fostering innovation and economic growth through digital transformation,” said Stephanie Tanton, Assistant Deputy Minister, Innovation Canada, with the Government of Canada. “By connecting OCIP with the Business Benefits Finder, we’re creating a more responsive and accessible ecosystem for employers and educators alike.”
About eCampusOntario
eCampusOntario is a not-for-profit organization funded by the Ministry of Colleges and Universities, that supports innovation, collaboration and digital-by-design education in Ontario’s colleges, Indigenous Institutes, and universities. We provide the sector with platforms, programs and services to advance digital participation in postsecondary education, connecting Ontario’s postsecondary institutions and learners to the future of learning and work.
About ISED
Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) works with Canadians in all areas of the economy and in all parts of the country to improve conditions for investment, enhance Canada’s innovation performance, increase Canada’s share of global trade and build a fair, efficient and competitive marketplace. They are the federal institution that leads the Innovation, Science and Economic Development portfolio.