Open
AgriInnovate Program
Repayable support for agri-food innovation
Last Update: June 17, 2026
Funding available
$ 5,000,000
Timeline
- Open Date : October 1, 2023
- Closing date : March 31, 2028
Location
Canada
Overview
Repayable contributions of up to $5 million support the commercialization, demonstration, and adoption of innovative agri-food technologies and processes. The program is designed to improve competitiveness and sustainability in Canada’s agricultural and agri-food sector.
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Opportunity Score
Moderate potential, but conditions must align.
At a glance
Funding available
Financing goals
- Reduce environmental footprint
- Access new markets
- Launch or market a product/service
Eligible Funding
- Maximum amount : 5,000,000 $
- Up to 60% of project cost
Timeline
- Open Date : October 1, 2023
- Closing date : March 31, 2028
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Location
- Canada
Legal structures
- For-profit business
Annual revenue
- All revenue ranges
Organisation size
- All organization sizes
Audience
- Indigenous Peoples
- Persons with Disabilities
- 2SLGBTQI+
- Women
Next Steps
1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility
Activities funded
- Commercialization of innovative agri-food technologies or processes
- Demonstration of ready-to-commercialize agri-food technologies or processes
- Adoption of commercially ready innovative technologies or processes in agri-food operations
Documents Needed
- Completed business plan
- Organizational chart
- Corporate structure diagram
- Audited or reviewed financial statements
- Pro forma financial statements
- Signed financing agreements
- Market research studies or letters of support
- Certificate or articles of incorporation
- Technical information
- Quotes, estimates, or contracts
- Regulatory permits or patents, if required
- Inter-company or other agreements affecting the project
Official resources
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
- For-profit corporations incorporated in Canada
- Cooperatives
- Indigenous businesses incorporated as corporations or cooperatives
Eligible expenses
- Site improvements, renovations, construction, and related capital costs
- Purchase and installation of machinery, equipment, and software
- Professional or specialized contracted services
- Salaries, benefits, rent, shipping, training, and project materials
- Limited marketing costs directly tied to project success
Ineligible Costs and Activities
- Post-project operating costs
- Travel, hospitality, and research costs
- Land, goodwill, and existing related-party equipment or buildings
- Refundable taxes and in-kind contributions
- Regulatory compliance costs
Eligible geographic areas
- Canada
Selection criteria
- Alignment with program objectives and priorities
- Technical feasibility and readiness for commercial development
- Scientific soundness and realistic timelines
- Applicant capacity and ability to complete the project on time and budget
- Market demand and potential sector benefits
How to apply
- Step 1: Submit the project summary form
- Access the program portal and sign in securely
- Download, complete, save, and upload the project summary form
- Submit the summary form online
- Step 2: Complete the full application if invited
- Access the online application form
- Complete the detailed project budget and required application fields
- Upload the required supporting documents
- Submit the complete application online
Processing and Agreement
- Applications are reviewed after submission and are not processed on a first-come, first-served basis
- Projects may be prioritized based on program priorities and merit criteria
- Outside experts may be involved in the assessment when needed
- Applicants may be invited to submit a full application after the project summary review
- A contribution agreement is required before funding is finalized
Additional information
- Applications are accepted on a continuous basis until March 31, 2028, or until funds are fully allocated.
- Projects may receive a higher cost-share if the organization is majority-owned or led by under-represented groups.
- Repayable contributions are generally repaid over up to 10 years after project completion.
- Quebec-based applicants must consider M-30 compliance before signing a contribution agreement.
Frequently Asked Questions about the AgriInnovate Program Program
What is the AgriInnovate Program?
Repayable contributions of up to $5 million support the commercialization, demonstration, and adoption of innovative agri-food technologies and processes. The program is designed to improve competitiveness and sustainability in Canada’s agricultural and agri-food sector.
How much funding can be received?
AgriInnovate Program Funds up to 60% of admissible expenses, capped at $5,000,000 per project.
What is the deadline to apply?
The application deadline for this grant program is March 31, 2028. Applicants must submit their complete application before this date to be considered for funding.
Who is eligible for the AgriInnovate Program program?
To be eligible for the AgriInnovate Program program, you must:
For-profit corporation in Canada
Legal entity able to sign agreements
Agri-food innovation project
What expenses are eligible under AgriInnovate Program?
Commercialization of innovative agri-food technologies or processes
Demonstration of ready-to-commercialize agri-food technologies or processes
Adoption of commercially ready innovative technologies or processes in agri-food operations
Who can I contact for more information about the AgriInnovate Program?
You can contact Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC).
Where is the AgriInnovate Program available?
The AgriInnovate Program program is available across Canada.