LIFT — Lead with Innovation and Focus on Technology (Digital Transformation & AI track)

LIFT — Lead with Innovation and Focus on Technology (Digital Transformation & AI track) is sponsored by Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC). This opportunity supports mission-aligned projects and measurable outcomes.

LIFT — Lead with Innovation and Focus on Technology To find out more, consult our Policy on confidentiality . LIFT — Lead with Innovation and Focus on Technology LIFT — Lead with Innovation and Focus on Technology Invest in advanced technology Adopt artificial intelligence, digital tools and smart equipment and get preferential-rate consulting and financing * . *When technology solutions are provided by Canadian suppliers.

Conditions apply. Focusing on practical applications LIFT is a program that helps you invest in advanced technology with clarity and confidence. Adopt AI, digital tools and cybersecurity to help you grow and remain competitive.

Invest in robotics, automation and equipment to improve efficiency. Work with qualified local AI and equipment suppliers. Get consulting and financing 1 in one program to strengthen operations and performance.

Adopt AI and build digital strength Get preferential-rate consulting and financing to plan and implement digital, data, AI and cybersecurity solutions—with a clear roadmap to move forward confidently. Boost productivity with automation Access preferential-rate financing for advanced equipment, robotics and automation—with optional consulting support if you need help strengthening your productivity plan.

Here’s a side‑by‑side look at each solution. Digital transformation and AI Productivity and advanced equipment To build digital capabilities and adopt AI to improve competitiveness. To increase productivity through advanced equipment and automation.

Good for data infrastructure, enterprise systems (ERP/CRM), AI technology, and cybersecurity. Good for equipment, robotics, automation and productivity-enhancing technology. BDC Advisory Services assesses readiness and helps you build an AI and digital plan.

Mandatory BDC plan required. BDC Advisory Services helps strengthen an existing productivity plan or build a new one 2 . BDC Financing supports the implementation of recommendations from the digital or AI plan.

BDC Financing allows you to invest in equipment purchases and related implementation costs. Get to work with Canadian suppliers to adopt digital and AI solutions. Get to work with Canadian suppliers to adopt advanced technology.

At least $1M in annual revenue. At least $5M in annual revenue. All industries are eligible 3 .

Manufacturing, Transport and warehousing, Wholesale, Construction, Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting, Architectural, engineering and related services, Mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction sectors only. Best for businesses that want to modernize systems, adopt AI, or strengthen cybersecurity. Best for businesses that want to automate operations or upgrade equipment with advanced technology to help boost output.

Start your request online Tell us about your project and business. Assess your needs to move forward. Put your investment into motion.

Frequently asked questions Is LIFT a Financing or Advisory Services solution? Both. LIFT combines consulting and financing to help you assess readiness, plan your project, and invest in Canadian technology that improves efficiency, increases productivity and competitiveness.

Preferential pricing is available on financing and advisory solutions. For digital transformation and AI: Adopting AI is critical for improving productivity. Consulting helps you assess digital maturity, build a roadmap, and prepare your investment before applying for financing.

For productivity and advanced equipment: Preferential‑rate financing supports investments in equipment, robotics, and automation. Consulting is available if you need support developing or strengthening your plan. Who is eligible for LIFT?

LIFT is for Canadian businesses with annual revenue of at least $1M seeking to improve efficiency or competitiveness through AI or advanced technology. LIFT is also available for those with an annual revenue of $5M investing in productivity‑enhancing equipment. Eligibility also depends on your financial health, industry, and the nature of your project.

Do I need to work with Canadian technology or equipment suppliers to qualify for LIFT? Yes. Your advisor can help you determine whether a supplier is Canadian when selecting AI, software, hardware, or digital service providers.

How do I know if I’m ready to adopt AI? AI solutions can vary from simple to complex, depending on your needs and available data. BDC technology consultants can help you assess your readiness and plan for the next steps.

Do I need a technology or digital plan to apply for financing through LIFT? Digital transformation and AI: A BDC Advisory Services Plan is required. Productivity and equipment: A plan is required.

BDC Advisory Services can help you build a plan if you don’t have one or refine an existing plan. Which industries are eligible for LIFT? For AI adoption, businesses from any industry may qualify 3 .

For productivity‑enhancing equipment, LIFT is available to businesses in the following sectors only: Transport and warehousing Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting Architectural, engineering and related services Mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction Can financing include installation and other related costs? Yes.

Financing may include installation, integration, and implementation costs when they are directly tied to the technology investment and reviewed as part of the overall project. How much of my project can be financed? The amount depends on your revenue, project scope, business profile, and the financial strength of your company.

In some cases, financing can exceed the base cost of equipment to include eligible implementation expenses, subject to review and approval. What if I’m not eligible for LIFT? Are there other financing and consulting services options?

BDC offers other financing and consulting options to support digital transformation, AI adoption, and equipment investments, including: technology financing for digital and IT projects equipment loans for machinery and equipment advisory services to help you plan and prepare for your project A BDC advisor can help you determine the best solution for your needs. We’ll get back to you as soon as we can.

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This page allows me to do what I need to do. This page allows me to find the information I’m looking for. 1.

Preferential financing rates and terms when technology solutions are sourced from Canadian suppliers. Financing subject to conditions. 2.

Note that a productivity plan is required to apply for financing. 3. With some exceptions including supplier of premises, hotels and trucking companies with less than 10 vehicles .