Connecting Saskatchewan Tech Startups with the Public Sector

Innovation Saskatchewan’s (IS) Made in Saskatchewan Technology (MIST) program fosters partnerships for pilot projects between Saskatchewan tech startups and public sector entities. These entities include the Government of Saskatchewan, its Ministries, Agencies, Crown corporations, Saskatchewan public sector organizations, as well as Saskatchewan non-profit organizations, community-based organizations, and municipalities. The program aims to encourage innovative solutions to public sector challenges and to promote growth within the province's technology sector.

Innovation Saskatchewan provides tech startups with non-repayable funding via the MIST program. To qualify for the grant, startups must obtain MIST approval. Applications are accepted year-round, with the approval of eligible startups occurring quarterly.

Program Objectives

1. Advance the public sector's commitment to excellence and innovation by piloting technologies to enhance service delivery.
2. Address challenges that eligible pilot partners encounter by developing and deploying innovative technological solutions.
3. Stimulate the expansion and development of the technology sector in Saskatchewan through strategic collaborations with early-stage tech startups.

Eligibility

For further clarification, please contact the MIST program manager.

Eligible Startups

Eligible tech startups must meet the following criteria to be considered for participation in the program:

1. Be based in Saskatchewan, as defined by meeting the following criteria:
   • Has a Saskatchewan head office address;
   • Registered to carry on business in the province; and,
   • At least 50% of its employees reside in the province.
2. Has fewer than 50 employees, including full-time, part-time and contract workers.
3. Reported annual recurring revenue of under $1M in the latest year-end financial statements.
4. Has a novel technology that is ready to implement or is close to commercialization (at least Technology Readiness Level 6).
5. Has reasonable capacity to work with an enterprise-level customer (i.e., government).

Eligible Project Partners

Eligible project partners include the Government of Saskatchewan, its Ministries, Agencies, Crown corporations, Saskatchewan public sector organizations, as well as Saskatchewan non-profit organizations, community-based organizations, and municipalities.

Funding Structure

Startups approved for the MIST program can receive a lifetime maximum of $30,000 to support pilot projects. The MIST grant must be matched 1:1 by the eligible project partner.

View the Program Guide for more information.

Intake Periods

Applications are accepted year-round, with the selection of eligible startups occurring quarterly. To be considered for MIST approval, prospective startups must apply, via the application link, before the deadline to be considered for review with the external MIST Advisory Committee.

Below are important dates for each review period in IS fiscal year:

* on or before this date

Click here to apply

Related Information

• Program Guide
• BNews Release: Innovation Saskatchewan Invests $92,500 in Technology Pilot Projects through the MIST Program

Contact

Looking for more information?  Contact us at mist@innovationsask.ca.