Durham businesses considering an artificial intelligence project can now review a federal funding intake for southern Ontario. FedDev Ontario’s Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative (RAII) is accepting applications until January 19, 2027, at 4:59 p.m. Eastern Standard Time.
There is an earlier date to watch: FedDev Ontario says to apply by November 24, 2026, if the proposed project and eligible costs start before March 31, 2027. The intake opened on October 13, 2026.
What the initiative supports
The program supports businesses and organizations adopting and integrating AI to improve productivity, competitiveness and resilience. It also supports Canadian AI companies bringing products and services to market and scaling them, along with organizations and networks that help businesses adopt and commercialize AI.
For Durham applicants, the practical starting point is the official southern Ontario program page. It provides separate application routes for businesses and organizations. Applicants should check the relevant requirements before preparing a proposal; being located in Durham does not by itself establish eligibility or guarantee funding.
National funding, not a Durham allocation
FedDev Ontario says the expanded initiative adds $500 million over five years as part of Canada’s AI for All strategy, bringing total federal funding for RAII to $700 million. These are national initiative totals, not an amount reserved for Durham Region or an award to any local organization.
Before applying
- Choose the business or organization application route on the official page.
- Check how the proposed activity fits the program and review the applicable eligibility and cost requirements.
- Compare the project’s planned start with the November 24 early-application instruction.
- Confirm the latest guidance and submission deadline directly with FedDev Ontario.
Read the official RAII information and application routes from FedDev Ontario.
Source: FedDev Ontario, “Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative in Southern Ontario,” checked October 27, 2026. This is a funding-intake notice, not an announcement of approved local projects. Image: original conceptual editorial graphic, not documentary photography.
