AgriInnovate Program
Canada
Repayable contributions for agri-sector innovation projects
grant_single_labels|summary
grant_single|eligibleFinancing
- grant_single|maxCount
- grant_single|projectCostPercent
grant_single|deadlines
- grant_single|openingDateOctober 01, 2023
- grant_single|closingDateMarch 31, 2028
grant_single|financingType
Grant and Funding
grant_single|eligibleIndustries
- Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
- Manufacturing
grant_single|grantors
- Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC)
- Government of Canada
grant_single|status
grant_card_status|open
grant_single_labels|preview
Get up to $5 million in repayable contributions to cover 50% of the cost of projects that aim to accelerate demonstration, commercialization and/or adoption of innovative products, technologies, processes or services that increase agri-sector competitiven
grant_single_labels|terms_and_conditions
The AgriInnovate Program provides financial support through repayable contributions and cost-sharing strategies designed to enhance the innovation capacity within the agricultural sector. This funding approach helps maximize the potential for commercializing innovative technologies while promoting inclusivity among diverse groups.
- Maximum repayable contributions by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) for a project are typically capped at $5,000,000.
- Standard cost-sharing ratio between AAFC and the applicant is 60% (AAFC) to 40% (Applicant).
- For organizations owned or led by under-represented groups, an additional 10% may be provided on the cost-share ratio, enhancing AAFC's contribution.
- In-kind contributions are not permitted; all contributions must be cash.
- Funding is offered to for-profit organizations on a repayable basis only.
grant_single_labels|projects
This grant supports projects aimed at enhancing the commercialization and adoption of innovative agricultural technologies and processes. The eligible activities focus on implementing and demonstrating advanced tools to increase the competitiveness and sustainable practices in the agri-food sector.
- Commercialization of innovative agricultural technologies.
- Demonstration of new processes enhancing agri-food sector efficiency.
- Adoption of ready-to-market sustainable agricultural innovations.
grant_single|admissibleProjectsExample
$ 2,500,000
Commercializing a new plant-based protein product
$ 3,500,000
Introducing a drone-based monitoring system for crops
$ 2,000,000
Demonstrating a vertical farming technology in an urban setting
$ 3,000,000
Commercializing a new organic pesticide for sustainable farming
$ 2,750,000
Developing a blockchain-based system for supply chain transparency
$ 4,000,000
Adoption of an AI-driven irrigation system for farms
grant_single_labels|admissibility
Eligibility for this grant is determined by specific criteria related to the applicant's organizational structure and project readiness.
- The applicant must be a for-profit business.
- The project should align with the objectives of the AgriInnovate Program, focusing on commercialization, demonstration, and/or adoption of innovative technologies and processes in the agricultural sector.
- The applicant must be able to provide the required cash contribution, in accordance with the cost-share ratio (AAFC – 60% : Applicant – 40%).
- The applicant cannot use in-kind contributions as part of their cost-share requirement; all contributions must be cash.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply
The AgriInnovate Program is open to for-profit businesses in the agricultural and agri-food sector that are looking to commercialize, demonstrate, and/or adopt innovative technologies and processes. The program also provides additional cost-sharing benefits for businesses majority-owned or led by under-represented groups, including Indigenous Peoples, youth, women, visible minorities, persons with disabilities, and 2SLGBTQI+ individuals.
grant_eligibility_criteria|eligible_expenses
The AgriInnovate Program under the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership supports projects that focus on the commercialization, demonstration, and adoption of innovative agricultural and agri-food technologies and processes. These initiatives aim to enhance competitiveness and sustainability in the sector.
- Commercialization of innovative agricultural products or processes.
- Demonstration of new technologies that improve agricultural productivity.
- Adoption of sustainable practices that enhance environmental benefits.
- Implementation of commercial-ready technologies that improve agri-food processes.
grant_single_labels|criteria
There are evaluation and selection criteria for this grant. The evaluation and selection criteria for the AgriInnovate Program include:
- Project feasibility and the applicant's capacity to achieve the project objectives
- Market potential and economic benefits for the agricultural and agri-food sector
- Environmental benefits and sustainability considerations
- Benefits for under-represented groups, such as Indigenous Peoples, youth, women, visible minorities, persons with disabilities, and 2SLGBTQI+ individuals
- Overall impact and contribution to innovation in the sector
grant_single_labels|register
- Step 1: Understand What the Program Offers
- Learn about the AgriInnovate Program objectives and funding availability.
- Check the program's open intake period and completion deadline.
- Step 2: Check Eligibility
- Ensure your project and organization meet the eligibility criteria.
- Verify if you qualify for additional cost-sharing benefits if you belong to under-represented groups.
- Step 3: Prepare Before You Apply
- Gather required documents to support your application, such as project plans and financial records.
- Secure necessary cash contributions for the cost-share requirement.
- Step 4: How to Apply
- Determine the application submission process and platform.
- Contact program representatives for guidance or clarification if needed.
- Step 5: Complete the Application and Apply
- Fill out the application form accurately and completely.
- Attach all the supporting documents required for review.
- Submit your completed application through the designated submission method.
- Step 6: After You Apply
- Await confirmation of receipt of your application.
- Prepare for potential follow-up questions or additional information requests.
grant_single_labels|otherInfo
Here are additional relevant details for this grant:
- Applications are reviewed on a continuous basis, and there is no deadline for submission until the program ends or funds are fully allocated.
- The program emphasizes diversity by offering additional cost-sharing benefits for organizations owned or led by under-represented groups.
- The funding provided through the AgriInnovate Program is repayable, meaning recipients need to plan financial strategies for repayment.
- Applicants are encouraged to engage directly with program representatives to clarify the additional benefits of cost-sharing for under-represented groups.
- All projects need to be scheduled for completion within the defined program timeframe, ending March 31, 2028.
Apply to this program
Push Your Agribusiness Forward with the AgriInnovate Program
The AgriInnovate Program aims to bolster the agricultural and agri-food sectors through financial contributions designed to support innovative technologies and processes. This program seeks to enhance competitiveness and sustainability within these vital sectors in Canada.
Unlock the Potential of Your Agribusiness with Comprehensive Support
The AgriInnovate Program, part of the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership, stands as a beacon of opportunity for those in the agricultural and agri-food sectors looking to embrace cutting-edge technologies. With applications accepted on a rolling basis until March 31, 2028, and funding capped at $5 million per project, it aims to drive the commercialization and adoption of innovative solutions that promise substantial benefits in terms of competitiveness and sustainability. The program's primary objective is to incentivize the implementation of ready-for-market innovations which can transform agricultural practices, increasing not only productivity but also environmental sustainability.
Cost-sharing under the AgriInnovate Program is structured to encourage extensive participation, with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) funding a significant share of 60%, while the applicants cover the remaining 40% with cash contributions. The program offers an enticing additional 10% boost in cost-sharing if the applicant organization is majority-owned or led by individuals from under-represented groups, including Indigenous Peoples, youth, women, visible minorities, persons with disabilities, and 2SLGBTQI+ communities. This inclusive approach aims to foster diversity and ensure broad access to the opportunities afforded by this program.
For-profit businesses that qualify will receive support on a repayable basis, ensuring that contributions are used efficiently and effectively in driving the strategic goals of both the organization and the sectors it operates within. Potential applicants are encouraged to align their project proposals with the core objectives of the program—focusing on the tangible economic and sustainability impacts—and to ensure that they are ready to complete all projects by the specified deadline of March 2028.
By participating in this program, businesses not only access crucial financial resources but also have the opportunity to position themselves as leaders in agricultural innovation. The anticipated outcomes include heightened competitiveness, adoption of sustainable practices, and significant contributions to the agricultural economy's growth. As such, the AgriInnovate Program represents a strategic partnership between the government and agricultural businesses, empowering them to take bold steps towards innovation and ecological responsibility. This initiative thus heralds a proactive stride towards a future where agriculture not only feeds populations but does so sustainably and competitively.
