November 4, 2024
IVADO launches DémultiplIA: a new program to propel AI SMEs and startups in Quebec
IVADO announces the launch of DémultiplIA, a unique program aimed at supporting 15 growing SMEs and startups each year, integrating artificial intelligence (AI) at the heart of their activities. This far-reaching program, supported by the Ministère de l’Économie, de l’Innovation et de l’Énergie du Québec, will provide selected companies with the resources and guidance needed to incorporate research and development (R&D) into their strategic vision while enhancing their ability to establish themselves as leaders in their respective sectors.
In an increasingly competitive global market, innovation is a key success factor for companies. DémultiplIA sets itself apart by providing tailored services and structured support, backed by one of the world’s largest AI research ecosystems, to accelerate product development and strengthen the competitive positioning of companies.
A program designed to accelerate AI-driven growth
By focusing on the integration of R&D as a driver of innovation, DémultiplIA will provide selected companies with privileged access to top AI talent from academia, collaborative research projects, and thus to technological breakthroughs and emerging trends in the field. Participating companies will be able to develop strategies tailored to their specific needs thereby enhancing their competitiveness.
“It’s not always easy for SMEs or startups to take the leap into R&D and collaborate with the academic world. With DémultiplIA, we aim to help them bridge that gap. This opens up the possibility of accessing essential resources and partnerships to ensure the resilience of their products or solutions. It’s a crucial path to supporting local innovation and strengthening Quebec’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.” says Gabrielle Langlois, Head of the DémultiplIA program.
“We are fortunate in Montreal to have one of the largest and most prestigious pools of AI researchers in the world, and we must seize this incredible opportunity to leverage this research ecosystem. This is what IVADO does every day, and we aim to further refine this approach to better suit the needs of SMEs and startups within the framework of DémultiplIA,” adds Nancy Laramée, Director of Partnerships at IVADO.
Strategic opportunities at the heart of the program
The program also offers mentoring opportunities, both scientific and entrepreneurial, through experts from Centech and the IVADO network. Participating companies will have the chance to build privileged relationships with key partners and ambassadors of DémultiplIA, as well as benefit from customized workshops designed to provide them with the resources and practical tools they need.
“By sharing our experience and collaborating with startups, we have the opportunity to create a virtuous circle that will make us a real force to be reckoned with, right here in Montreal. IVADO is our secret weapon for achieving this,” says Jean-Simon Venne, CTO and co-founder, BrainBox AI, and ambassador for the DémultiplIA program.
Other benefits include support in designing and funding artificial intelligence projects, as well as consulting mandates carried out by HEC Montréal MBA students. Additionally, companies will have access to all the benefits offered to IVADO members, including training, funding opportunities, communities of practice, personalized support, and more.
Participation criteria and program timetable
Companies interested in joining the next cohort of DémultiplIA must meet several criteria, including:
- A strong willingness to collaborate with the academic community;
- Access to quality data to collaborate with the research community
- Have the financial stability to invest a minimum of $30,000 per year in collaborative research projects;
- Be a member of the IVADO network and commit to an annual contribution of $5,000 for 3 years;
- Be an incorporated company in Quebec.
Applications are open until December 8, 2024, with a selection process scheduled for the week of December 9. Successful companies will be announced the week of December 16, and the program will officially begin in early 2025.
