Lithuania strengthens cooperation with Canada: €160,000 to be allocated for business participation in innovation programmes
The Ministry of the Economy and Innovation (EIMIN) is strengthening Lithuania’s economic partnership with Canada. Lithuanian companies are invited to participate in international research, development and innovation programmes in Canada. A total of €160,000 has been allocated for this purpose.
‘Canada is one of the world’s most advanced countries in terms of high technology and innovation, so we see great potential for expanding our bilateral cooperation. I visited Canada earlier this year and hosted Victor Fedeli, Ontario’s Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade. We discussed opportunities for cooperation in exports, investment and innovation. Participation in R&D&I diplomacy programmes in Canada will enable Lithuanian companies to forge new partnerships, develop high-value products jointly and strengthen their competitiveness in international markets,” says Edvinas Grikšas, Minister of the Economy and Innovation.
Funding will be allocated to cover the costs incurred by micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), as well as large companies, when participating in international R&D&I diplomacy programmes in Canada. This will include travel, accommodation, insurance, administrative costs, and other necessary expenses, as well as participation fees.
SMEs may be reimbursed up to 80 per cent of eligible costs, while large enterprises may be reimbursed up to 70 per cent. Up to €20,000 in funding may be awarded to a single applicant.
Participants will be able to establish contacts within the Canadian ecosystem, assess opportunities for cooperation and seek partners for joint R&D&I projects. They will also be able to take part in targeted events and one-to-one meetings with potential partners.
Applications will be assessed based on the international novelty of the product, service or technology to be developed; the market potential; the company’s experience of carrying out R&D&I activities; the expected outcomes of the collaboration; and alignment with smart specialisation priorities.
Applications can be submitted to the Innovation Agency until 31 August this year. Further information can be found here.
Economic cooperation between Lithuania and Canada has grown rapidly in recent years. This was further strengthened by E. Grikšas, the Minister of the Economy and Innovation, visiting Canada from 23 to 27 April this year – the first such visit in the history of independent Lithuania.
The visit aimed to strengthen cooperation in the fields of high technology, innovation, investment and trade. This positive trend is also reflected in trade figures: last year, the volume of bilateral trade in goods and services increased by 37 per cent, exceeding 300 million euros for the first time.
Last updated: 28-07-2026
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