Thinking about AI? Start with BDC’s LIFT program
Implementing AI successfully requires more than simply purchasing software. It requires a clear understanding of your business goals, current capabilities, data readiness, cybersecurity considerations, and implementation priorities.
That’s where BDC’s (the Business Development Bank of Canada) LIFT Digital Transformation and AI solution can help.
Designed specifically for Canadian small and medium-sized businesses, this solution combines expert advisory services with flexible financing to help organizations plan and implement digital transformation, AI, data, and cybersecurity initiatives with confidence.
What is BDC’s Digital Transformation and AI solution?
The Digital Transformation and AI solution is one of the streams offered through BDC’s LIFT (Lead with Innovation and Focus on Technology) program. The solution is designed to help businesses assess their digital maturity, identify opportunities for improvement, develop a practical implementation roadmap, and access financing to bring their projects to life. Rather than making technology decisions based on trends or assumptions, you receive expert guidance and a structured plan tailored to your specific goals and operational needs.
What does your Digital Plan include?
- Assessment of your current digital capabilities
- Review of existing systems and processes
- Evaluation of AI opportunities
- Data and cybersecurity considerations
- Technology recommendations
- Implementation roadmap
- Budget estimates and project planning
- Business case and expected benefits
The goal is to provide a practical roadmap that aligns technology investments with business objectives.
What are the benefits?
Once the BDC Advisory Services Digital Plan has been completed and financing is approved, you can finance a range of eligible initiatives, including:
- Artificial intelligence solutions
- Data infrastructure
- Cybersecurity audits and solutions
- Customer relationship management (CRM) systems
- Enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems
- Systems integration projects
- Technology implementation costs
- Employee training related to technology adoption
One of the most attractive aspects of the solution is the financing flexibility available to eligible businesses. Key financing benefits include:
- Loan amounts ranging from $25,000 to $2 million
- Option to postpone capital payments for up to 12 months
- Loan amortization periods of up to 6 years, including any capital payment postponement
- Flexibility to implement projects while managing cash flow
This structure allows you to focus on implementation and adoption while spreading costs over time.
Who is eligible?
- At least $1 million in annual revenue
- Strong financial foundation
- Solid credit history
- Demonstrated profitability
- Investment focused on digital transformation, data, AI, or cybersecurity
- Completion of a BDC Advisory Services Digital Plan
How to apply
The application process begins with BDC. You can submit an application through BDC and discuss their objectives with a BDC representative. This structured approach helps ensure you have a clear strategy before making significant technology investments. The process typically includes:
- Start your request online: Tell BDC about your business and your digital transformation, AI, data, or cybersecurity project.
- Talk with an advisor: A BDC advisor will discuss your business needs and help determine the best path forward.
- Access financing: Once approved, you can move ahead with your investment and begin implementing your project.
Ready to take the next step?
BDC’s LIFT Digital Transformation and AI solution provides eligible businesses with access to expert advisory services, a customized Digital Plan, and flexible financing to support implementation.
Don’t let the complexity of digital transformation hold your business back. As an external coach supporting BDC’s Digital Transformation and AI solution, I work with Canadian businesses to assess opportunities, build practical digital roadmaps, and prepare for successful implementation. If you’d like to discuss your business goals and determine whether the BDC LIFT program is a good fit, feel free to reach out.
Visit BDC’s Digital Transformation and AI solution page to learn more about the program and submit your application.