Venture Niagara partners with Innovate Niagara to launch the Niagara Technology Grants Fund

NIAGARA, ON – Venture Niagara and Innovate Niagara are pleased to announce a new partnership and joint project to help Niagara businesses and not-for-profit organizations embrace technology to strengthen their operations, improve efficiency, and drive economic growth.

Beginning August 4, 2026, applications will open for the Niagara Technology Grants Fund, a new initiative that will provide up to $50,000 in total funding, with grants of up to $5,000 per eligible project. Successful applicants will be required to provide matching funding equal to the grant amount awarded. The Niagara Technology Grants Fund is a pilot project designed to support initiatives that demonstrate how Niagara businesses and not-for-profits use technology to improve productivity, enhance service delivery, create new opportunities, and contribute to the economic prosperity of the Niagara region.

Eligible projects may include the adoption of new software and digital tools, automation technologies, artificial intelligence applications, advanced manufacturing technologies, e-commerce enhancements, cybersecurity improvements, digital transformation initiatives, and other innovative technology solutions.

Applications will be evaluated based on the project's purpose, anticipated outcomes, and potential impact on the local economy. Consideration will be given to factors such as business growth, productivity improvements, job creation and retention, innovation, community benefit, and long-term sustainability.

For more than 40 years, Venture Niagara has supported entrepreneurs, small businesses, and community organizations through financing, advisory services, and community economic development initiatives.

Innovate Niagara has built a strong reputation for fostering innovation and entrepreneurship throughout the region, particularly within technology, digital media, advanced manufacturing, and clean-tech sectors.

By combining their expertise, networks, and commitment to economic growth, the two organizations aim to accelerate technology adoption and strengthen Niagara's competitiveness in an increasingly digital economy.

"Technology is changing every sector of our economy at an unprecedented pace," said Frank Rupcic, General Manager of Venture Niagara. "This partnership provides an opportunity to help businesses and not-for-profit organizations adopt new technologies, improve efficiency, and position themselves for future growth. By working together, Venture Niagara and Innovate Niagara can provide both financial support and access to expertise that will help organizations turn innovative ideas into meaningful results."

"Innovation is no longer optional—it's essential for organizations that want to remain competitive and resilient," said Innovate Niagara CEO, N’ora Kalb. "The Niagara Technology Grants Fund will help organizations implement new technologies and build the capacity needed to thrive in today's economy."

Additional program details, including an online information session will be announced in advance of the August 4, 2026, application launch date. Follow Innovate Niagara and Venture Niagara on social media and visit their websites to stay up to date.

About Venture Niagara www.ventureniagara.com

Venture Niagara is a not-for-profit Community Futures Development Corporation dedicated to supporting business growth, entrepreneurship, access to capital, and community economic development throughout the Niagara region.

About Innovate Niagara www.innovateniagara.com

Innovate Niagara supports entrepreneurs, startups, and growing companies through advisory services, innovation programming, mentorship, and ecosystem development initiatives that help build a thriving innovation economy in Niagara.

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