How Canadian CCPCs can boost SR&ED claims by $25-50K per hire while bringing world-class talent to Canada and why now is the time to act.
Canada’s Scientific Research & Experimental Development (SR&ED) tax credit has long been one of the country’s most powerful innovation funding tools, helping Canadian-Controlled Private Corporations (CCPCs) recoup up to 60 percent of their R&D investments in some cases. But with anticipated changes to SR&ED regulations taking effect in 2026, there’s never been a better time for CCPCs to maximize their claims under current rules.
That’s where VanHack’s SR&ED Unlocked program comes in, and why it’s more valuable than ever.
The SR&ED Unlocked Opportunity
In partnership with Boast, VanHack’s SR&ED Unlocked program offers a unique three-way win: Global software engineers get to relocate to Canada and work on cutting-edge R&D projects, U.S. companies access top-tier contracted development talent, and Canadian CCPCs unlock significant additional SR&ED funding (between $25,000 and $50,000 per hire on average).
Here’s how it works:
Step 1: VanHack sources exceptional software engineering talent from their global network of 450,000+ members across 100+ countries who are actively looking to relocate to Canada.
Step 2: These engineers are already performing R&D work for U.S.-based companies. VanHack connects them with CCPCs in their Partner Network.
Step 3: The U.S. company contracts with the Partner Network CCPC as a client, with the engineer continuing their R&D work from Canada.
Step 4: The Partner Network CCPC now has SR&ED-eligible work being performed by Canadian-based employees, generating substantial additional claims.
The beauty of the program? VanHack handles all the heavy lifting, from talent sourcing to immigration support to contract facilitation.
The Track Record Speaks for Itself
Since launch, the SR&ED Unlocked program has already demonstrated impressive results:
- 18 Partner Network companies participating
- 36 engineers in the relocation process
- $3 million+ in revenue booked for Partner Network CCPCs
- $1.5 million+ in SR&ED claims on the table to date
These aren’t just numbers—they represent real CCPCs that have expanded their teams with world-class talent while simultaneously boosting their innovation funding.
Why 2025 Is the Year to Act
While the core SR&ED Unlocked program remains as compelling as ever, the landscape around SR&ED itself is shifting. Industry experts anticipate regulatory changes coming into effect in 2026 that could impact claim calculations, eligible expenses, and documentation requirements.
This makes 2025 a critical year for CCPCs to:
- Lock in claims under current regulations by onboarding talent now
- Establish documentation practices that will withstand future scrutiny
- Build relationships with SR&ED specialists who understand both current and upcoming requirements
- Maximize returns before potential adjustments to the program
By participating in SR&ED Unlocked now, you’re not just adding to your 2025 claims; you’re positioning your CCPC to navigate whatever changes 2026 brings with expert support from both VanHack and Boast.
Beyond the Immediate Financial Benefits
While the $25,000-$50,000 per hire in additional SR&ED funding is compelling, the SR&ED Unlocked program delivers value that extends well beyond the immediate claim:
Access to Global Top Talent: VanHack’s network represents some of the world’s most skilled engineers who are ready and eager to contribute to Canadian innovation.
Revenue Growth: Partner Network companies generate revenue from the contracted work, creating a sustainable business model beyond the SR&ED benefit.
Ecosystem Expansion: Joining VanHack’s Partner Network connects you with other forward-thinking CCPCs and creates opportunities for collaboration and growth.
Immigration Support: VanHack handles the complex process of helping engineers relocate, removing a significant administrative burden from your team.
SR&ED Expertise: Boast’s platform and team ensure your claims are optimized, compliant, and audit-ready—critical as regulations evolve.
Who Should Join SR&ED Unlocked?
The program is ideal for CCPCs that meet the following criteria:
- Minimum of 2 full-time T4 employees
- At least $200,000 in revenue for the last fiscal year
- Interest in expanding development capacity with exceptional talent
- Desire to maximize SR&ED claims under current regulations
Development shops and software companies are particularly well-positioned to benefit, though any CCPC performing eligible R&D activities should explore the opportunity.
The Technology + Human Expertise Advantage
What sets this program apart is the combination of VanHack’s proven talent network with Boast’s specialized SR&ED expertise. While tech-only solutions leave money on the table and traditional accounting firms treat SR&ED as just another line item, this partnership delivers:
Comprehensive audit defense: Built-in documentation from day one that can withstand IRS and CRA scrutiny—increasingly important as regulations tighten.
Strategic optimization: Human experts who understand the nuanced, subjective language of SR&ED qualification and can identify every eligible activity.
Year-round platform access: Continuous value beyond annual claims, including policy updates and strategic planning for upcoming changes.
Proven track record: Decades of combined experience navigating SR&ED regulations and maintaining successful relationships with government agencies.
Looking Ahead: Preparing for 2026 and Beyond
The anticipated SR&ED changes in 2026 underscore the importance of establishing strong documentation practices and working with specialists who stay ahead of regulatory shifts. By participating in SR&ED Unlocked with Boast’s support, you’re building a foundation for continued success regardless of how the program evolves.
CCPCs that act now will:
- Capture maximum value under current regulations
- Develop robust documentation systems
- Build expertise in SR&ED qualification within their teams
- Establish relationships with specialists who can guide them through transitions
Ready to Unlock Your SR&ED Potential?
If you’re a CCPC looking to bring world-class engineering talent to Canada while significantly boosting your SR&ED claims, 2025 is the year to act. The program has already proven successful for dozens of Partner Network companies, and with regulatory changes on the horizon, there’s no better time to maximize your innovation funding.
Get started today:
Schedule a consultation with VanHack to learn how you can participate in SR&ED Unlocked and start boosting your claims while bringing exceptional global talent to your team.
Want to understand how much you could be claiming? Talk to a Boast expert about optimizing your SR&ED strategy for 2025 and beyond.
