Funding and Innovation Specialist

Our client seeks a Funding Specialist will lead the identification, development, and submission of applications to government innovation funding programs. This role ensures that the AI Labs maximizes opportunities to secure external resources that fuel experimentation, research, and deployment of transformative AI solutions. Working closely with AI researchers, engineers, product managers, and finance teams, the Specialist will craft compelling proposals that align with both program requirements and our strategic vision.

This is a 12-month contract and is a hybrid role with 3 days in office in downtown Toronto.

Key Responsibilities

• Research and track government innovation funding programs across federal, provincial, and municipal levels, with a focus on AI and emerging technologies.
• Evaluate eligibility criteria and strategically match opportunities to the AI Labs initiatives.
• Lead the writing and coordination of funding applications, ensuring clarity, compliance, and persuasive storytelling.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to gather technical, financial, and strategic inputs for proposals.
• Manage submission timelines, reporting obligations, and post-award compliance.
• Build and maintain relationships with funding agencies, consortium partners, and industry networks.
• Provide insights to leadership on funding trends and future opportunities to accelerate AI innovation.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Public Policy, Communications, or a related field.
• 2–4 years of experience in grant writing, proposal development, or government funding programs.
• Exposure to innovation ecosystems, preferably within AI, technology, or R&D environments.
• Strong research and analytical skills with the ability to interpret program guidelines.
• Excellent writing and communication skills, capable of translating technical concepts into persuasive proposals.
• Highly organized and detail-oriented, with experience managing multiple deadlines in fast-paced environments.
• Proactive, resourceful, and motivated by enabling innovation through external partnerships.