News
September 10, 2026
IVADO Opens Applications for DémultiplIA 2027: Turning R&D into a Growth Engine for AI SMEs and Startups
Montreal, September 10, 2026 — IVADO is now accepting applications for the 3rd 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 is designed for SMEs and startups that want to use artificial intelligence as a real driver of growth. By opening the doors to IVADO’s research and innovation ecosystem, we help them shape their ambitions, accelerate their projects, and build lasting partnerships,” explains Carolina Garibay, advisor on technology transfer, innovation, and entrepreneurship, and head of the DémultiplIA program. “We’re looking for ambitious companies that are ready to turn their innovation potential into a concrete competitive advantage.”
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 second cohort of DémultiplIA included 14 companies active in several strategic sectors: technology and AI, the environment, biotechnology and healthcare, Agtech and agriculture, media and marketing… These companies were able to accelerate the development of innovative products, test new approaches, and forge strategic partnerships with the research community and industry partners.
According to Cimon Chapdelaine, co-founder and CEO of PhonIA: “Thanks to DémultiplIA, we’ve matured as a company; the program has helped us effectively structure our research and development.”
Nicols Faucher, President of MediaTonik, sees DémultiplIA as a toolkit that can significantly contribute to the growth of Quebec businesses.
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 10 to October 25, 2026, at midnight. Results will be communicated during the week of November 25, 2026, and the program will officially begin in early 2026.
