Supported Technologies
- Semiconductor devices
- Integrated circuits
- Photonics
- RF systems
- Semiconductor-enabled smart mobility systems
OVIN Semiconductor Voucher Program
Kanata North Business Association (KNBA) in collaboration with Invest Ottawa and Area X.O is proud to serve as a key Regional Technology Development Site (RTDS), one of nine (9) in Ontario. The recently announced investment from the Ontario Government through the Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network (OVIN) reinforces a coordinated provincial approach to advancing automotive and mobility innovation. The Ottawa RTDS, evolving from a smart mobility test track into a collaborative semiconductor-focused initiative connects Ottawa’s semiconductor cluster with real-world testing, certification, and pilot deployment environments, supporting Ontario SMEs across the innovation lifecycle—from chip design to roadway. This integrated approach accelerates adoption, attracts investment, and strengthens Ontario’s leadership in semiconductor-enabled smart mobility. The creation of new technology and knowledge-based products and reducing time to market and accelerating product commercialization commercializing that innovation is critical to Ontario’s global competitiveness.
Program Overview Built For Ontario’s Deep-Tech Innovators
The OVIN Semiconductor Voucher Program will support the growth and commercialization of Ontario SMEs in the advanced semiconductor, photonics, and hardtech companies by providing targeted technical expertise and specialized services. The program will accelerate development of new products or technologies.
Semiconductor startups need access to key design and prototyping expertise to commercialize, develop and test their products without the high costs of building their own infrastructure. This program will also provide funding to qualified Ontario companies to use towards these services to accelerate the commercialization of their semiconductor solution.
We will provide customized curated access for eligible companies to access the supply chain of service companies in the Ottawa region including; expertise and infrastructure (Design/layout, Packaging, pre/post testing, software development, certification, prototyping, market research, software tools, technical assistance) to help startups innovate and improve their product offerings.
Developing a semiconductor technology can cost millions of dollars before a single unit is manufactured. Small and medium-sized hardtech, semiconductor technology companies need access to the expertise and critical infrastructure in order accelerate their commercialization efforts. Ontario has a unique supply chain of companies including, CMC Microsystems, Sanmina, Canadian Photonics Fabrication Centre, Jabil Ottawa, DA-Integrated, Carleton University, University of Ottawa. Eligible companies will be matched with expertise and supply chain infrastructure partners to enable, design, layout, prototype, packaging, and testing.
Eligible Voucher Uses — not limited to:
- Chip design
- Fabrication
- Prototyping
- Testing
- Packaging
- Technical validation
How it Works How The Voucher Works
All applications are reviewed and evaluated to determine fit with the Voucher Program objectives and intended outcomes. Upon approval, KNBA matches your company with the right approved service provider for your project scope.
1
Complete the intake form
Complete the online intake form with your contact details and a brief description of your technology and commercialization stage. A KNBA program advisor will follow up to discuss next steps. You can expect a response to your intake submission within 5–7 business days.
2
Eligibility screening call
A KNBA program advisor confirms your eligibility, discusses the program, and walks you through the full application. Non-eligible companies are referred to the most appropriate alternative program.
3
Submit your full application
Complete the application with your technology description, project scope, TRL self- assessment, and budget. A Statement of Work with clear milestones and outcomes is required. Not sure which provider to use? KNBA will match you with the right approved partner based on your technology and needs.
4
Application review & decision
All applications are reviewed and evaluated to determine fit with the Voucher Program objectives and intended outcomes—by both an independent semiconductor subject matter expert and KNBA as delivery partner. Written rationale is provided for all outcomes.
5
Provider matching, agreement & project start
We will match you with potential approved service providers for your project scope and execute a voucher agreement between all parties. Voucher funding is paid directly to the service provider partner and disbursed upon receipt and approval of milestone- based reports, over the project term—you focus on the work.
6
Deliver, report & complete
Execute your project. A mid-project check-in is required. Submit your completion report within 30 days of project end to trigger final payment release.
Funding at a Glance
Voucher range
$2,000–$20,000
Max voucher
$20,000
Your cash match
Min. 25% of total cost
Payment model
Paid direct to provider
Max project length
1 year
Eligible TRL range
TRL 4–9
Intake model
Continuous—apply anytime
Companies supported
Min. 10 per year
Eligible voucher activities
- Chip design & layout
- Fabrication
- Prototyping & engineering validation
- Testing & characterization
- Packaging
- Simulation
- Technical validation & certification
- Other—contact us
Eligible Project Activities
Eligible project activities may include, but are not limited to:
Prototype development
Certification and Regulatory Approval
Obtaining necessary certifications, regulatory and operational requirements.
System Integration
Integrating prototype components with existing systems to test interactions.
Risk Reduction
Identifying remaining scaling challenges and manufacturing issues before full-scale deployment.
Engineering Validation
Leading-edge design, engineering and prototype development; conducting developmental testing to evaluate whether the prototype meets operational requirements; advanced product testing and refinement.
Finalizing Design for Manufacturability (DFM)
Moving from handmade prototypes to high-volume manufacturing processes (often aligned with Manufacturing Readiness Levels — MRL).
Pre-commercialization / Early Adopter Field Trials
Using the product in its intended environment to prove market readiness, rather than just technical functionality.
Other technology development activities may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Technoloy Readiness Are you At The Right Stage
Ideal program candidates are at Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 4 through 9—proven at lab scale and actively moving toward commercialization. Companies at TRL 1–3 (basic research or concept stage) are not eligible under this program.
Not eligible (TRL 1-3)
Eligible (TRL 4-9)
Not eligible
1
Basic principles observed
Not eligible
2
Technology concept formulated
Not eligible
3
Experimental proof of concept
Project Dependent
4
Validated in lab
Eligible
5
Validated in relevant environment
Eligible
6
Prototype demonstrated
Eligible
7
Prototype in operational environment
Eligible
8
System complete & qualified
Eligible
9
System proven in use
Not sure of your TRL? That’s normal.
Many applicants are uncertain about their exact TRL—and that’s fine. Your KNBA program advisor will help you assess your stage during the eligibility screening call, and the technical reviewer will independently verify your TRL as part of the review process.
TRL 1-3
Not eligibleBasic principles through experimental proof of concept. Scientific research and early concept development without a clear commercialization application.
TRL 4-6
EligibleTRL 4 – Technology validated in lab; components tested together in a controlled environment; early prototype development begins.
TRL 5 – Technology validated in relevant environment; prototype tested in conditions that simulate real-world use.
TRL 6 – Prototype demonstrated in relevant environment; working prototype in near-real conditions; system integration begins.
TRL 7-9
EligibleTRL 7 – System prototype tested in real-world conditions; performance validated outside the lab.
TRL 8 – System complete and qualified; meets regulatory and operational requirements; ready for production.
TRL 9 – System proven in operational use; fully commercialized technology successfully deployed in the field.
Eligibility Is Your Company A Fit?
The program is designed for Ontario-based semiconductor, photonics, and hardtech SMEs with a clear commercialization pathway. All criteria below must be met. Use the self-assessment on the right to do a quick check—or contact us if you’re unsure whether your company qualifies.
Ontario-based SME
Incorporated business with significant operations in Ontario, OR majority of employees in Ontario.
Fewer than 500 employees
Commercially oriented technology company. Not a subsidiary of a large corporation exceeding this threshold.
OVIN priority sector technology
Developing technology in: semiconductors, smart mobility, connected vehicles, autonomous mobility systems, mobility-related hardware, or semiconductor-enabled mobility technologies.
Commercialization stage (TRL 4–9)
Technology at prototype, pre-production, or validation stage. Pure academic research or concept-only work without a commercialization path is not eligible.
Ontario benefit intent
Must demonstrate intent to generate Ontario benefit: job creation, IP development, investment attraction, or commercial activity.
25% cash match available
Company must contribute a minimum of 25% of total eligible project costs in cash before the project starts.
Financially viable & in good standing
Legally able to operate in Ontario, financially viable, and in good standing with all applicable regulatory bodies.
Quick eligiblity check
Tick each box that applies to your company for an instant read.
✕ You may not currently qualify—we can refer you to other programs.
◑ You may partially qualify—contact us to discuss.
✓ You likely qualify—complete the intake form to confirm.
Start Application
Approved Providers Ottawa’s Semiconductor Supply Chain
Eligible companies will be matched with expertise and supply chain infrastructure partners to enable design, layout, prototyping, packaging, and testing. Voucher funding is paid directly to the approved service provider—not to your company.
Not sure which provider is right for you?
KNBA will match your company with the most appropriate approved service provider based on your technology, project scope, and development stage—as part of the intake and approval process.
Are you a service provider?
If your company provides semiconductor design, fabrication, packaging, testing, or related technical services and you believe you should be on the approved provider list, we’d like to hear from you.
Design & Fabrication
CMC Microsystems
Canada’s national platform for microsystems R&D—providing access to fabrication, EDA design tools, and prototyping infrastructure for semiconductor companies across the country.
Photonics Fabrication
Canadian Photonics Fabrication Centre
World-class III-V compound semiconductor fabrication and photonics processing capabilities. A key node in Ottawa’s integrated photonics supply chain for SMEs developing laser, detector, and optical component technologies.
Manufacturing & Packaging
Jabil Ottawa
Global electronics manufacturing leader with Ottawa operations specializing in advanced semiconductor packaging, module assembly, and high-reliability manufacturing for hardtech companies moving toward production scale.
Electronics Manufacturing Services
Sanmina
Global electronics manufacturing services provider with capabilities spanning PCB fabrication, assembly, test, and systems integration—supporting semiconductor SMEs from prototype through production scale.
Systems Integration
DA-Integrated
Ottawa-based systems integration and electronics design firm providing hardware development, embedded systems, and technical support services for semiconductor and hardtech companies advancing their commercialization efforts.
Research & Academic Labs
University Laboratories
Access to specialized research infrastructure at Carleton University and the University of Ottawa—including characterization labs, cleanrooms, test equipment, and domain expert consultation for semiconductor R&D activities.
Ontario Semiconductor & Hardtech Company Directory
A comprehensive listing of Ontario’s semiconductor and hardtech companies by category-Components & ICs, EDA / Manufacturing / Equipment, Hardware Architectures, Software Architecture, and Software Technology. Curated with a deliberate focus on deep-tech companies operating below the system design and integration layer.
Is your Ontario semiconductor or hardtech company not listed?
The directory is continuously updated. If your company is missing, submit an inclusion request and we’ll add you to the next edition. You can also reach us directly by email.
Ottawa's Hardware & Semiconductor Cluster - Economic Impacts 2025: Final Report
DoyleTech Corporation, Ottawa’s Hardware and Semiconductor Cluster Economic Impacts 2025: Final Report, Ottawa, ON, Canada, 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions Common Questions Answered
Didn’t answer your questions? Contact us!
Your company must contribute at least 25% of the total eligible project cost in cash before the project starts. For example, if your total project cost is $20,000, you contribute $5,000 and the voucher covers the remaining $15,000—paid directly to your provider. The cash match cannot come from another public funding source.
Voucher funds are paid directly to your approved service provider—not to your company. KNBA administers payments to providers upon receipt and approval of milestone-based reports. KNBA does not retain any voucher funds.
Yes—having other grants does not disqualify you. However, the same eligible project costs cannot be covered by two public funding sources simultaneously. You must disclose any other public funding for the same project in your application, and KNBA will work with you to ensure compliance.
After submitting a complete application, it will be reviewed by both an independent semiconductor subject matter expert and KNBA as the delivery partner—assessing technical merit, commercial potential, and alignment with program objectives. You can expect a response to your intake submission within 5–7 business days. For questions on process or status, contact ovin@kanatanorthba.ca.
You’ll need a formal provider quote before your application enters the committee review stage—but not before submitting your initial intake form. KNBA can facilitate introductions to the right provider based on your technology. Email ovin@kanatanorthba.ca and we’ll connect you.
You’ll receive written rationale explaining the decision. If you believe there was a procedural error or have significant new information, you may file an appeal within 15 business days. Otherwise, you are welcome to reapply with a substantially revised application after 90 days.
Yes—the program is open to any Ontario-based SME that meets the eligibility criteria. You don’t need to be located in Ottawa or Kanata. However, you must work with one of the approved service providers to deliver the project.
Absolutely. Eligible companies can access all three streams—technical mentorship (3.1), the voucher program (3.2), and capital readiness & investor engagement (3.3)—simultaneously or sequentially. Your KNBA program advisor will help you determine the right combination.
In Partnership With
Start Your Application Today
We are accepting applications for 2026. Intake is continuous until funding is fully allocated—there is no fixed deadline. To find out if you are a fit for OVIN Semiconductor programs and support, please complete the intake form. You can expect a response to your intake submission within 5–7 business days. For any questions, contact ovin@kanatanorthba.ca.
