Focusing on practical applications
LIFT is a program that helps you invest in advanced technology with clarity and confidence.
Modernize your business
Adopt AI, digital tools and cybersecurity to help you grow and remain competitive.
Upgrade productivity
Invest in robotics, automation and equipment to improve efficiency.
Buy Canadian
Work with qualified local AI and equipment suppliers.
Boost competitiveness
Get consulting and financing1 in one program to strengthen operations and performance.
One program.
Two powerful paths.
Adopt AI and build digital strength
Get preferential-rate consulting and financing to plan and implement digital, data, AI and cybersecurity solutions—with a clear roadmap to move forward confidently.
Boost productivity with automation
Access preferential-rate financing for advanced equipment, robotics and automation—with optional consulting support if you need help strengthening your productivity plan.
LIFT at a glance
Here’s a side‑by‑side look at each solution.
| Digital transformation and AI | Productivity and advanced equipment |
|---|---|
| To build digital capabilities and adopt AI to improve competitiveness. | To increase productivity through advanced equipment and automation. |
| Good for data infrastructure, enterprise systems (ERP/CRM), AI technology, and cybersecurity. | Good for equipment, robotics, automation and productivity-enhancing technology. |
| BDC Advisory Services assesses readiness and helps you build an AI and digital plan. Mandatory BDC plan required. | BDC Advisory Services helps strengthen an existing productivity plan or build a new one2. |
| BDC Financing supports the implementation of recommendations from the digital or AI plan. | BDC Financing allows you to invest in equipment purchases and related implementation costs. |
| Get to work with Canadian suppliers to adopt digital and AI solutions. | Get to work with Canadian suppliers to adopt advanced technology. |
| At least $1M in annual revenue. | At least $5M in annual revenue. |
| All industries are eligible3. | Manufacturing, Transport and warehousing, Wholesale, Construction, Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting, Architectural, engineering and related services, Mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction sectors only. |
| Best for businesses that want to modernize systems, adopt AI, or strengthen cybersecurity. | Best for businesses that want to automate operations or upgrade equipment with advanced technology to help boost output. |
Applying is easy
- Start your request online Tell us about your project and business.
- Talk with an advisor Assess your needs to move forward.
- Access financing Put your investment into motion.
Frequently asked questions
Both. LIFT combines consulting and financing to help you assess readiness, plan your project, and invest in Canadian technology that improves efficiency, increases productivity and competitiveness. Preferential pricing is available on financing and advisory solutions.
For digital transformation and AI:
Adopting AI is critical for improving productivity. Consulting helps you assess digital maturity, build a roadmap, and prepare your investment before applying for financing.
For productivity and advanced equipment:
Preferential‑rate financing supports investments in equipment, robotics, and automation. Consulting is available if you need support developing or strengthening your plan.
Yes. Your advisor can help you determine whether a supplier is Canadian when selecting AI, software, hardware, or digital service providers.
Yes, a plan is required.
Digital transformation and AI: A BDC Advisory Services Plan is required.
Productivity and equipment: A plan is required. BDC Advisory Services can help you build a plan if you don’t have one or refine an existing plan.
For AI adoption, businesses from any industry may qualify3.
For productivity‑enhancing equipment, LIFT is available to businesses in the following sectors only:
- Manufacturing
- Transport and warehousing
- Wholesale
- Construction
- Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
- Architectural, engineering and related services
- Mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction
BDC offers other financing and consulting options to support digital transformation, AI adoption, and equipment investments, including:
- technology financing for digital and IT projects
- equipment loans for machinery and equipment
- advisory services to help you plan and prepare for your project
A BDC advisor can help you determine the best solution for your needs.
Ready to apply?
1. Preferential financing rates and terms when technology solutions are sourced from Canadian suppliers. Financing subject to conditions.
2. Note that a productivity plan is required to apply for financing.
3. With some exceptions including supplier of premises, hotels and trucking companies with less than 10 vehicles.