The Pilot: Net-Zero Transformation program funds municipalities to test innovative GHG reduction solutions through small-scale, preliminary trials. These pilots are limited in scope, duration and resource commitment, designed to assess how well proposed concepts work in practice and identify potential challenges before full-scale implementation.

Pilot projects can involve comparing several options, testing new materials or processes within larger projects, or applying novel approaches not yet tested in Canada or specific market segments. Projects must lead to quantifiable GHG reductions and demonstrate innovation through new technologies, business models, or transformative applications of existing solutions.

Key application requirements:

• Explain why the solution needs testing before full-scale implementation
• Clearly identify hypotheses or assumptions being tested
• Outline data collection and analysis methods to assess pilot success
• Define decision criteria for proceeding to full-scale implementation
• Articulate what full-scale implementation would look like
• Explain how lessons learned will be applied and shared with others

Innovation criteria: Must demonstrate development/application of new knowledge, policy, practice, business model, or advanced technology; OR new/emerging application of existing technology representing substantive change to current operations.

Additional requirements: Climate resilience compliance, equity considerations and strong replication potential preferred.