Metal Additive Manufacturing Voucher Program
NOTE: The application intake period is closed now. Applications for intake#4 is being reviewed. Next intake will open in June 2027.
Program Objective
The Additive Manufacturing Voucher Program is designed to support small- to medium-sized businesses or organizations seeking first-time exposure to metal additive manufacturing (AM), also referred to as 3D printing, by providing access to advanced AM services. The program aims to foster innovation and growth in various industries by enabling businesses to leverage metal AM to create novel part designs, accelerate product development, repair or refurbish existing parts or infrastructure, and many other opportunities. Each business can apply for a maximum of one voucher (worth up to $7,500) per year, which can be used for a range of services, including printing, design, characterization, training, and consultation. The cost will be used towards material and supplies, user fees, and personnel time on the project. Projects may be eligible for additional funding through Canada Makes and NGen to further accelerate R&D for larger scope work.
Our goal is to create a more equitable and innovative business landscape by providing equal opportunities and support to all eligible applicants. We are committed to ensuring that AM technology is accessible to all, empowering businesses that may not have previously had the chance to explore its potential. We strongly encourage applications from business owned by Indigenous or other underrepresented groups, as well as companies in rural communities, but applications from all interested parties are welcome and will be considered.
(opens in a new tab)Program Highlights
- Comprehensive Services: Vouchers can be used for a variety of services, including printing, design assistance, characterization of printed parts, training sessions, or consultation to build your team's expertise.
- Exploratory Opportunities: We welcome companies that are new or at early-stage to AM and want to explore its potential to enhance their operations. This program de-risks that for them.
- Regional Focus: Priority is given to small- to medium-sized or even large businesses located in Southern Ontario, recognizing the vibrant and diverse business ecosystem in this region.
- Diverse Support: Special consideration is given to businesses owned by individuals from indigenous communities and other underrepresented groups as well as those businesses in rural communities.
- Annual Allocation: Each business can apply for up to ONE voucher per year.
Service Types
The program offers the following services:
Diverse AM Solutions
- Directed energy deposition
- Powder bed fusion
- Binder jetting
- Fused filament fabrication
Diverse Alloy Families
- Ferrous alloys
- Titanium alloys
- Aluminum alloys
- Copper alloys
- Superalloys (Ni, Co-Cr)
Design Assistance
- Design optimization
- Topology optimization
- Lattice structures
Characterization
- Metallography
- 3D scanning
- SEM and microCT scanning
- Tensile and hardness testing
Training
- Customized workshops
- Hands-on training
Consultation
- Printing technology relevant to application(s)
- Material selection strategies
- Planning for R&D cycle
Visit this page for more information about our facilities.
Eligibility Criteria
To ensure that our Voucher Program effectively supports small businesses, applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Applicants must represent either a Canadian-registered business or organization or a Canadian subsidiary of an international business or organization.
- Applicants must represent a business or organization that has been in operation for over one year, and has at least two full-time employees.
- Applicants must not have received benefit from this program within the past year.
- The proposed printing/service project must have an estimated cost of C$7,500 or less. Larger scope projects may be considered if eligible for additional funding through Canada Makes and NGen.
By meeting these criteria, your business can take advantage of our program to explore innovative AM solutions, design capabilities, and/or advanced characterization techniques and drive growth.
Project Cycle and Review Process
The review process for the Voucher Program is thorough and designed to ensure that each application is evaluated fairly and effectively. Applications are accepted based on the timeline depicted in the figure below. After submission, they are reviewed by a dedicated panel of experts who assess the project. The selection criteria are based on feasibility, complexity of the project, and alignment with program goals. Projects must be realistic, achievable, and fit within the capabilities and bandwidth of the MSAM lab. They should foster innovation and growth, demonstrating clear benefits and potential impact. A project description, including AM needs, expected outcomes, and business benefits, will be considered in selection process.
To gain a comprehensive understanding of the proposed project, the review panel or MSAM representatives may arrange meetings with applicants to clarify details and address any questions. This collaborative approach ensures that both parties have a clear vision of the project’s scope and requirements.
Decisions are finalized by the end of the month, after which successful applicants are provided with a detailed timeline for the completion of their projects. This timeline outlines key milestones and deliverables, ensuring transparency and effective project management from approval to completion.
In the case of a high number of successful applicants, there may be delays in the project timelines. Applicants will be informed of any such delays and updated timelines will be provided to ensure that expectations are managed appropriately.
Timeline for a typical project call cycle
Contact Us
For more information about the Voucher Program or if you have any questions, please feel free to contact us at msam-voucher@uwaterloo.ca. Our team is here to assist you and provide detailed information on how our services can support your business needs.
We look forward to helping your business innovate and grow with advanced AM solutions!