September 15, 2025
IVADO Opens Applications for DémultiplIA 2026: Turning R&D into a Growth Engine for AI SMEs and Startups
Montreal, September 15, 2025 — IVADO is now accepting applications for the second cohort of DémultiplIA, its flagship program designed to help Quebec-based AI SMEs and startups integrate research and development (R&D) at the core of their growth strategy.
Launched in November 2024 and supported by the Ministère de l’Économie, de l’Innovation et de l’Énergie du Québec, DémultiplIA selects around fifteen high-potential Quebec companies each year. The program helps AI businesses strategically leverage R&D to accelerate the development of innovative products and strengthen their market competitiveness.
Tailored Support and Unique Opportunities
DémultiplIA provides companies with privileged access to a world-class AI research ecosystem. Participants can collaborate with leading researchers and academic talent, engage in custom collaborative research projects, stay ahead of emerging technologies and trends, and develop AI strategies aligned with their growth goals. Under certain conditions, the program also offers support for project design and funding through the Scale AI Acceleration Fund, providing leverage to maximize the impact of innovation projects.
” DémultiplIA transforms R&D into a strategic lever for companies, granting them access to talent, multidisciplinary collaborations, and cutting-edge technologies, ” says Gabrielle Langlois, program manager. ” It’s a unique opportunity for SMEs and startups to structure their innovation around a sustainable growth strategy. ”
Participants also benefit from scientific and entrepreneurial mentorship provided by Centech and the IVADO network, access to major partners and program ambassadors, strategic projects led by HEC Montréal MBA students, tailored workshops, and discounted training at the Executive Education HEC Montréal. Companies enjoy all the perks of IVADO membership, including dedicated advisors, funding opportunities, communities of practice, and concrete resources to accelerate development.
An Inspiring First Cohort
The inaugural DémultiplIA cohort included 15 companies across five strategic sectors: Energy, Environment & AgTech; Technology & AI; Finance & Insurance; Commerce, Entertainment & Tourism; Health & Life Sciences; and Transportation & Mobility. These companies accelerated the development of innovative products, tested new approaches, and built strategic collaborations with the research community and industry partners.
” For Beeye, the impact was immediate: a passionate, well-connected team gave us fast access to top researchers, funding, and training. Our product development is accelerating daily, and our global growth has felt the effect almost instantly.” shares Adrien Sicard, co-founder and CEO of Beeye.
Participation Criteria and Program Timeline
Companies interested in joining the next DémultiplIA cohort 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;
- Become an IVADO member and commit to an annual contribution of $5,000* for 3 years;
- Be an incorporated company in Quebec.
Applications are open from September 15 to October 26, 2025, at midnight. Results will be communicated during the week of November 26, 2025, and the program will officially begin in early 2026.
