Are you developing an AgeTech solution? IVADO supports organizations in integrating artificial intelligence in a rigorous and responsible way, and turning their project into a funded reality through the envisAGE program.
The envisAGE initiative brings together SMEs, evaluation centres, community laboratories, and innovation hubs to transform ideas into funded, deployable projects.
Within the envisAGE ecosystem, IVADO serves as the specialized artificial intelligence hub, supporting organizations in designing, validating, and deploying AI solutions tailored to the real needs of aging populations.
IVADO’S ROLE
Scientific Validation
Projects are connected with researchers and clinical experts to ensure scientific rigour and clinical relevance.
Ecosystem Matchmaking
Connections between academic, community, and industry partners are facilitated to build the right project teams.
AI Expertise
AI experts are mobilized to advise on or co-develop the systems at the core of each solution.
Official Submission
Projects are co-written by IVADO and officially submitted to MEDTEQ+ and AGE-WELL, from start to finish.
“We are honoured to join envisAGE, a leading Canadian AgeTech initiative for which IVADO will bring its expertise and leadership in artificial intelligence. By collaborating with MEDTEQ+ and AGE-WELL, we can make responsible AI a powerful driver of transformative innovations that will improve the quality of life of Canadian seniors.”
Pierre Dumouchel – Director of Technology Transfer, IVADO
From Idea to Funded Project
HOW IT WORKS
IVADO supports organizations at every step of the process — from the initial conversation to the official submission.
1. Exploratory Meeting
IVADO’s team takes the time to understand the project, answer questions, and assess alignment with the envisAGE program.
2. Project Form
Applicants submit a form to IVADO describing their technology, solution, collaborators, and expected impact.
3. Scientific Review
A scientific committee assesses the clinical relevance of the project and ensures alignment with key ecosystem partners.
4. Co-creation and Matchmaking
IVADO leads the project build: academic matchmaking, recruitment of AI experts, and definition of services and budget.
5. Submission and Decision
The project is co-written and officially submitted by IVADO to MEDTEQ+ and AGE-WELL, who make the final funding decision.
Two submission windows per year: mid-March and mid-August.
If a project is not selected in the first round, it can be strengthened and resubmitted in the next window.
An Expense Reimbursement Program
envisAGE reimburses a portion of eligible expenses incurred by each project partner, based on their role.
Up to 50%
Of expenses incurred for collaboration with an innovation hub;
Up to 15-20%
Of expenses incurred by the SME;
Up to 20-30%
Of expenses incurred by the community laboratory;
75%
Maximum leverage of 75% in total government funding, for medium- to large-scale projects.
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
To be eligible, a project must include at minimum one SME and one community laboratory. Specialized partners complete the team based on the nature of the project.
Who Can Apply?
- Canadian SMEs with a mature technology (TRL 4–9) that addresses the needs of seniors or caregivers.
- Legal entities or organizations providing services, support, care, or housing to older adults or caregivers, with a commitment to innovation.
Requirements
- Commitment to participating in collaborative projects involving multiple partners.
Required Project Composition
| SME or Startup | Community Laboratory | Innovation Hub | BeachHead |
|---|---|---|---|
| Develops the technology solution. [Required]. | Provides a real-world setting for testing the solution. [Required] | For AI-integrated projects, IVADO is the designated hub — providing scientific expertise and support. [Required] | Specialized centre that validates and accelerates the integration of technologies in real-world contexts. [Required] |
Eligible Project Themes
- Autonomy and independence
- Cognitive health and dementia
- Financial well-being and employment
- Health care and services
- Healthy lifestyle and wellness
- Mobility and transportation
- Maintaining social connections
- Living environments and supportive communities
SUPPORTED PROJECTS
Mance‑IA : Enhanced security for seniors
Problematic
Ensuring the safety of residents in senior living facilities, in the face of falls and periods of inactivity, while responding to the pressure on care staff.
Technological solution
Mance-IA combines smart sensors, alert buttons and real-time AI analysis to quickly detect incidents and alert staff, thereby improving the safety and efficiency of care.
CURRENT COLLABORATIONS
Research Centre — Institut universitaire de gériatrie de Montréal (CRIUGM)
To ensure clinical relevance from the earliest stages of project development, IVADO has partnered with the CRIUGM — a leading research centre in aging in Quebec.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What types of projects does IVADO support as an envisAGE hub?
AgeTech projects that integrate artificial intelligence to improve the health, autonomy, or quality of life of seniors and caregivers.
What are eligible expenses?
- Direct labour
- Subcontractors and consultants
- Materials and equipment
- Travel and transportation
- Overhead costs (capped at 15% of total budget)
What is the recommended project size?
Given the requirements of the design, development, and writing phases, projects with a total value of $250,000 or more are recommended.
What is the funding period?
envisAGE funds projects over a period of 12 to 18 months to accelerate R&D and clinical validation for commercialization purposes.
When are the submission deadlines?
There are two submission windows per year: mid-March and mid-August. If a project is not selected in the first round, it can be strengthened and resubmitted in the following window.
Have a project in mind?
Whether you’re ready to apply or simply have questions, the team is available to help.