Driving Innovation: Alberta Doubles Down on STEM Startups with $2M Grant Round
- ClearView Insider
- Jul 23
- 1 min read
Updated: Jul 25
Alberta is fuelling its tech sector by investing $2 million through the Innovation Catalyst Grant (ICG) program to support eight science-based startups led by recent graduate entrepreneurs. The grant, now in its third round since launching in 2022, provides $250,000 over two years to master’s and PhD grads developing commercial tech solutions in science, engineering, and related fields.
Recipients also gain access to lab space and business mentorship — part of the province’s broader strategy to diversify the economy and retain STEM talent. ICG’s first cohort, funded in 2023, has already produced nine companies, 58 jobs, and $6 million in leveraged investment to date. Quantum computing startup Quantized Technologies (QTi) emerged from the program with 18 employees, $4 million raised, and four international patents pending.
The ICG is one of Alberta’s most targeted early-stage innovation tools, turning academic research into commercially viable enterprises. Applications for the 2026 intake close September 1, positioning the next wave of founders to scale in Alberta’s growing innovation economy.
Source: Government of Alberta, “Alberta driving innovation through support for STEM graduates,” July 2025. https://www.alberta.ca/release.cfm?xID=93651C92BFBD3-D2D9-16FD-96FD54425391E2BA
Connect with ClearView: Curious how Alberta’s early-stage innovation pipeline is shaping demand for lab space, tech hubs, or venture-tenanted real estate? Let’s talk: info@cvpartners.ca