— June 30, 2025 —
Federal and provincial government grants can offer cost savings but many organizations miss out simply because they don’t know what to look for. That’s where CPAs can play a critical role.
Whether you’re in public practice or industry, understanding how grant programs work – and where they’re headed – can help uncover hidden opportunities. From funding for hiring to innovation incentives, there are a few key categories to explore.
There are four major “buckets” of funding:
- Hiring & Training
- Research & Development
- Capital Expenditures
- Marketing & Exports
Within these categories, new priorities are emerging. Programs tied to AI and tariffs are becoming more prominent. To help CPAs stay alert to potential opportunities, we’ve pulled together an example of a simple checklist that can be used when reviewing files with clients or for your internal financial planning process.
| Business Plans | Yes/No | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New hires / large payroll increases | ______________________________________ | |
| Capital asset purchases (equipment, renovations) | ||
| R&D activities, software dev, prototypes | ||
| Expansion into U.S. or foreign markets | ||
| Use of co-op students/internships | ||
| Green upgrades or sustainability projects |
Utilizing a document like this would serve as a great starting point when investigating potential grant opportunities or working with an organization that provides that service. Want more insight into upcoming grant trends, real-world examples, and expert guidance on navigating the process?
Check out our conversation with Eric Pini from Ryan LLC for the full breakdown — including insider tips to help you or your clients access the funding that’s available.
