Agri-Tech Innovation Initiative : Stream 3 – Agri-Tech Energy Costs Savings
ON, Canada
The Agri-Tech Innovation Initiative supports growth and productivity in Ontario’s agri-food sector through innovation, advanced manufacturing, and energy efficiency.
grant_single_labels|summary
grant_single|eligibleFinancing
- grant_single|maxCount
- grant_single|projectCostPercent
grant_single|deadlines
- grant_single|closingDateMarch 28, 2024
grant_single|financingType
Grant and Funding
grant_single|eligibleIndustries
- Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
- Manufacturing
grant_single|grantors
- Agricultural Adaptation Council (AAC)
- Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (SCAP)
grant_single|status
grant_card_status|closed
grant_single_labels|preview
The Agri-Tech Innovation Initiative aims to enhance growth and productivity in Ontario’s agri-food sector through advanced manufacturing, improved food safety, cybersecurity, and energy efficiency. Specifically, Volet 3 supports processing businesses in deploying technologies to reduce energy costs and greenhouse gas emissions, covering activities like purchasing energy-efficient equipment, upgrading water consumption technologies, and improving building energy efficiency.
grant_single_labels|projects
There are several eligible projects and activities for this grant which focus on improving energy efficiency and reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the agri-food sector.
- Purchase or installation of new or refurbished equipment, parts, components, or technologies that enhance energy efficiency
- Purchase, installation, or modification of equipment and technologies focused on water consumption that enhance energy efficiency, including Clean-In-Place (CIP) systems using cold water instead of hot water or recovery and reuse of residual heat from processing water
- Improvements to buildings related to energy efficiency, such as lighting, ventilation, heating, and refrigeration
- Independent experts/services necessary for the project, including engineering services, staff training, and project management
grant_single|admissibleProjectsExample
$75,000
Implementing a CIP system using cold water to enhance energy efficiency at a bakery
$85,000
Energy efficiency improvement through building insulation upgrades at a fruit processing firm
$100,000
Installation of an energy-efficient refrigeration system for dairy processing at a facility
$80,000
Introducing water-efficient technologies to reduce consumption at a brewery
$100,000
Enhancing building energy efficiency with advanced HVAC systems at a poultry farm
$90,000
Upgrade the lighting system to energy-efficient LEDs in a food processing plant
grant_single_labels|admissibility
Eligibility for the Agri-Tech Innovation Initiative requires specific criteria related to the applicant's operations and project scope.
- The applicant must be part of the agri-food sector.
- The proposed project should focus on areas such as innovation, advanced manufacturing, improved food safety, enhanced cyber security, or energy efficiency.
- The project must fit into one of the three streams defined by the Initiative based on total eligible costs.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply
The Agri-Tech Innovation Initiative targets entities within the agri-food sector that aim to enhance innovation, productivity, food safety, cybersecurity, and energy efficiency.
- Agri-food businesses that develop or implement innovative technological solutions.
- Companies involved in advanced manufacturing processes within the agri-food industry.
- Organizations focused on improving food safety measures.
- Entities that enhance cybersecurity within the agri-food sector.
- Businesses that aim to improve energy efficiency in agri-food operations.
grant_eligibility_criteria|eligible_expenses
This initiative aims to boost the agri-food sector's growth and productivity by promoting technological advancements and operational improvements. Eligible projects encompass efforts in innovation, advanced manufacturing, food safety, cyber security, and energy efficiency.
- Development and implementation of innovative agri-tech solutions to enhance productivity.
- Adoption of advanced manufacturing techniques to improve output quality and efficiency.
- Upgradation of food safety measures to meet current regulatory standards and consumer trust.
- Enhancements in cyber security protocols to protect sensitive agri-food data.
- Initiatives focused on reducing energy consumption and improving energy efficiency within agri-food operations.
grant_eligibility_criteria|zone
The eligible geographic zone for this grant is Ontario, Canada.
- Ontario, Canada
grant_single_labels|criteria
The evaluation and selection criteria for the Agri-Tech Innovation Initiative's energy cost reduction segment (Volet 3) are designed to assess projects based on clear descriptions, alignment with energy efficiency evaluations, necessary resources, and potential impact on energy efficiency and operational costs.
- Projects and the expected outcomes are well described (15 points)
- Demonstrated alignment with an energy efficiency audit, evaluation, or plan, or demonstrated need and justification for the project (25 points)
- Resources, experience, skills, and knowledge necessary for the deployment and continuous use of the technology or processes are described (15 points)
- Extent to which the project will improve the applicant's energy efficiency (25 points)
- Extent to which the project will reduce the applicant's operating costs (20 points)
grant_single_labels|register
- Step 1: Assess Eligibility
- Ensure your business is located in Ontario.
- Confirm your business type (Producer or Processing Business).
- Have or obtain a valid Business Number (BN) from the Canada Revenue Agency.
- Ensure you have a valid and up-to-date Farm Business Registration Number (FBRN) for each business location where the project will take place.
- Step 2: Create Online Account
- Go to the AAC application portal: https://adaptcouncil.smartsimple.ca/s_Login.jsp?&lang=2
- Create an account for your producer/processing business.
- Step 3: Complete Application Form
- Fill out the approved application form available online.
- Ensure the application is complete and aligns with submission criteria.
- Step 4: Provide Supporting Documentation
- Submit quotes related to eligible expenses for the project.
- Step 5: Submit Application
- Submit the completed application and supporting documents before 11:00 AM (EST) on Thursday, March 28, 2024.
- Step 6: Wait for Decision
- Wait for an email notification about the decision, which should be received within 60 business days after the application period closes.
grant_single_labels|otherInfo
This grant provides support for agricultural technology advancements in Ontario, focusing on energy cost reduction, growth, and productivity. It includes financial aid up to 35% of eligible costs for specific energy-efficient projects.
- Up to $100,000 funding per project, with a total project cost of $285,715.
- Eligible activities include purchasing and installing new or refurbished energy-efficient equipment and technologies.
- Independent expert services for project management and staff training are also eligible.
- Applications are accepted via the AAC’s online portal and must be submitted by March 28, 2024.
- Projects must be completed by September 30, 2027, with reimbursement requests submitted periodically.
- Eligibility requirements include being an authorized entity in Ontario with a valid business number and enterprise identification number.
Apply to this program
Empowering Agri-Food Innovations for a Sustainable Future
The Agri-Tech Innovation Initiative is a transformative grant designed to bolster growth, productivity, and technological advancements within the agri-food sector. With its focus on innovation, advanced manufacturing, improved food safety, enhanced cybersecurity, and energy efficiency, this initiative promises to drive significant advancements across Canada's agri-food landscape.
Understanding the Agri-Tech Innovation Initiative: A Comprehensive Overview
The Agri-Tech Innovation Initiative is a dynamic funding program implemented to catalyze innovation and efficiency in Canada's agri-food sector. With three distinct streams, the grant accommodates projects with varying scopes and requirements, offering tailored support to stimulate growth within this pivotal industry. Whether dealing with cost-efficient energy solutions or revolutionary technological developments, the initiative aims to address the diverse needs of Canada's agri-food industry, enhancing sustainability and competitive advantage across the board.
Each stream within the Initiative is meticulously crafted to address specific aspects of the agri-food sector. Stream 1 focuses on smaller-scale projects with eligible costs under $100,000, enabling nascent innovations to gain the support necessary for initial development and deployment. Stream 2 targets more extensive projects, providing substantial backing for undertakings with eligible costs of $100,000 or greater. This tier is instrumental in fostering extensive technological advancements and significant operational enhancements.Stream 3 zeroes in on energy efficiency, supporting projects that drive down energy consumption and promote sustainable practices. This component is crucial in today's climate-conscious economy, as reducing energy costs not only helps businesses remain competitive but also aligns with global sustainability targets.While the intake period for the funding has concluded, applicants are advised that funding decisions are anticipated within a 60-business-day timeframe from the intake close date set for June 2024. Those eligible for support under this initiative can expect to position themselves at the forefront of Canada's agri-food innovations, leading advancements in food safety, cybersecurity, and energy efficiency.The initiative not only provides financial backing but also fosters a culture of innovation across the agri-food sector. By encouraging advancements in processes and technologies, the program helps businesses and organizations to enhance productivity, address critical food safety challenges, and embrace modern solutions like advanced manufacturing techniques.With the potential to fundamentally transform operations within the sector, the Agri-Tech Innovation Initiative is a significant opportunity for agri-food stakeholders to innovate responsibly. Through conscientious management of resources and delivery of measurable outcomes, grant recipients can enhance their competitive footing, establishing themselves as leaders in sustainable practices and technological advancement.The tangible benefits extend beyond immediate financial support, as participants in the initiative also gain access to extensive networks of experts and partners dedicated to fostering innovation and sustainability. This collaborative approach enables the agri-food sector to evolve collectively, paving the way for ongoing growth and resilience in the face of global challenges.By prioritizing projects that align with strategic focuses such as innovation, impact potential, and feasibility, the initiative ensures that resources are allocated efficiently. In doing so, it fulfills its mandate to promote a thriving, competitive, and sustainable agri-food industry in Canada.In conclusion, the Agri-Tech Innovation Initiative stands as a beacon of support for transformative projects within the agri-food landscape, driving innovation, sustainability, and growth. It represents a crucial step towards securing a prosperous future for Canada's agri-food sector, encouraging partnerships, innovation, and responsible business practices that benefit communities and the economy alike.
