A recent resolution proposed by the Windsor-Essex Regional Chamber of Commerce, and the Mississauga Board of Trade made recommendations that the federal government:
- Establish a “SR&ED Claim Certification Program” that CCPC’s can voluntarily apply to.
- Set up a specific department (from within existing structure) to work with CCPCs that are certified to the “SR&ED Claim Certification Program.”
- Set up a preferential and expedited claim and payment process for CCPCs that are certified to the “SR&ED Claim Certification Program,” allowing claims to be processed within a guaranteed first three months of CCPCs fiscal year.
- Establish an Administrative Monetary Penalty System that promotes compliance for CCPCs that are certified to the “SR&ED Claim Certification Program”.
- Ensure SR&ED eligibility and evaluation criteria for federal funding programs are clearly defined and specific to the intended recipient pool.
- Ensure all funding programs have clearly defined submission and evaluation protocols to provide for a fair and transparent evaluation process.
- Ensure all funding programs have pre-screening mechanisms to provide timely guidance to prospective applicants.
- Ensure that only necessary application support is requested of applicants and minimize on-going reporting requirements to reduce the administrative burden associated with the submission process.
- Ensure programs and funding are available to appropriately address the needs of existing Canadian business as well as those being pursued in identified strategic priority industries.
