Launch & Learn Grant Writing Workshop
Are you a startup or scale-up looking to navigate the world of grants and SR&ED (Scientific Research and Experimental Development) funding? Join us for an exclusive Lunch & Learn session designed to demystify the grant writing process and uncover new opportunities through the evolving SR&ED program.
📅 Date: January 29th , 2026
📍 Location: IDEA Mississauga
🎯 Target Audience: Entrepreneurs, founders, and business leaders from IDEA Mississauga’s cohorts, alumni, and the broader innovation community
💼 Capacity: 20–30 participants (open to public registration)
What You’ll Learn:
Grant Writing Essentials: How to craft compelling applications and avoid common pitfalls
SR&ED Program Updates: Learn about the reintroduction of capital claims, cloud licensing eligibility, and more
Case Studies & Best Practices: Real-world examples of successful funding strategies
Office Hours Access: One-on-one consultations available post-session for tailored advice
Why Attend?
Get expert insights from a dedicated grants and R&D advisory team
Discover funding pathways that can accelerate your product development and market expansion
Network with fellow innovators and potential collaborators
Explore partnership opportunities with IDEA Mississauga and funding experts
Bonus!
Participants will gain access to Fundica, IDEA Mississauga’s grant database, and receive guidance on how to leverage it effectively.
Panelists
Suzan Beshay
Suzan Beshay is the Director - Scientific Research and Experimental Development Tax Credits within the technology sector, where she helps innovative organizations secure funding to accelerate their R&D initiatives. With a strong technical background and deep understanding of Canada’s incentive landscape, she partners with clients to identify eligible projects, optimize claims, and develop effective methodologies for substantiating R&D activities.
With over 14 years of experience in software development and 6 years in project management, Suzan Beshay brings hands-on expertise across the full software development lifecycle (SDLC) from design and development to testing, deployment, and support. While she specializes in Software and Information technology SR&ED claims, she has also supported companies across a wide range of industries including, manufacturing, healthcare, and insurance services, giving her a broad perspective on innovation challenges and funding opportunities.
Suzan holds a Bachelor’s in Software Engineering and a PMP certification, combining strong technical and project management expertise. Passionate about innovation, she helps businesses maximize SR&ED and grant opportunities, delivering projects on time and within scope while turning complex technical work into meaningful funding outcomes that drive growth and competitiveness.
Mike Iannone
Mike Iannone is Director, SR&ED at Ryan ULC, where he leads client strategy and engagements that help Canadian businesses identify, substantiate, and secure government funding through the federal Scientific Research and Experimental Development (SR&ED) program. With a software engineering background, he bridges technical and business teams to scope eligible work and prepare defensible claims. While he specializes in technology-driven SR&ED claims, he has supported companies across a wide range of industries.
Mike began his career at an IT consulting firm, progressing from developer to team lead and delivering large-scale enterprise software projects. In 2018, he joined a national accounting firm to work with technology companies on end-to-end SR&ED advisory—identifying eligible projects, preparing submissions, and supporting reviews.
He holds a Bachelor of Mathematics (Computer Science/Software Engineering) from the University of Waterloo and maintains various technology and project management certifications.
Theron Williamson is the Director of Client Services, Government Grants at Ryan ULC, where he leads client engagement and strategy in helping Canadian businesses identify and secure government funding. With extensive experience across diverse industries—including manufacturing, technology, healthcare, and clean energy—Theron specializes in aligning funding opportunities with client priorities to drive growth, innovation, and competitiveness.
Theron Williamson
Theron began his career in the automotive sector before transitioning into government funding, a move that leveraged his business background and client-focused approach. Since joining Ryan, he has played an integral role in building long-term relationships, navigating complex funding programs, and maximizing outcomes for clients through a solutions-driven and collaborative approach.
A graduate of the University of Guelph–Humber with a focus in Business Studies, Theron combines academic foundations with practical, real-world expertise. He is recognized for his ability to thrive in fast-paced environments, adapt quickly to evolving program landscapes, and bring a team-oriented mindset to every engagement