CAAIN — 2025 Broadacre Cropping Program

Who is eligible?

• Canadian small and medium enterprises (SMEs) involved in agri-food, agricultural technology, or smart farming
• Academic and research institutions operating in Canada
• Canadian not-for-profit organizations engaged in agri-food technology or innovation
• For-profit entities (including multi-national enterprises) with operations in Canada
• Technology developers and equipment manufacturers supporting broadacre cropping systems

Who is not eligible

• Companies or organizations without operations in Canada.
• Entities unable to secure cash contributions from at least two Canadian small or medium enterprises (SMEs), as defined by Statistics Canada (499 or fewer employees).
• International organizations seeking direct funding (funding may only flow to Canadian entities).
• Project teams or partners not in good standing with CAAIN (e.g., with overdue reporting or monies owed to CAAIN).

Eligible expenses

• Salaries and wages for project-related personnel.
• Costs for subcontractors and consultants directly supporting project work.
• Purchase of materials and supplies used exclusively for project activities.
• Acquisition of equipment required for approved project activities, including modifications and shipping.
• Direct intellectual property costs related to project outputs.
• Travel and outreach expenses directly related to project execution.

Eligible geographic areas

• Organizations with operations in Canada.

• Technical merit: The project must present a scientifically sound innovation concept, showing progress of at least one Technology Readiness Level (TRL), with emphasis on TRL 3-7, aiming for commercialization or broader adoption in Canada.
• Team and network expertise: The project team should represent multiple sectors within the agricultural value chain, with the collective capability to evaluate technologies from diverse perspectives.
• Economic and social benefits: The proposal should demonstrate how the project will create value for the Canadian agriculture and agtech sectors, outlining pathways for innovation adoption and highlighting impact beyond the immediate team.
• Training opportunities: The proposal should detail how the project will provide experiential learning opportunities, such as co-op placements or upskilling agriculture workers.
• Budget justification: The costs associated with the project must be reasonable and appropriately justified, adhering to CAAIN's costing principles.

• Step 1: Complete Project Application Form (PAF)
  • Download and complete the Project Application Form (PAF) from CAAIN’s website once the competition opens.
  • Clearly describe the problem to be addressed, objectives, and expected outcomes.
  • Ensure alignment with CAAIN's program goals and check all eligibility requirements.
  • Submit the completed PAF before the initial deadline or while the competition remains open.
  • Wait for email confirmation from CAAIN that your submission has been received.
• Step 2: Submit Expression of Interest (EOI) (by invitation only)
  • If invited, prepare and submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) detailing project activities, rationale, and planned development toward commercialization or adoption.
  • Provide a preliminary overview of project partners and budgets supporting the project’s objectives.
  • Submit the EOI as instructed by CAAIN.
  • Await email confirmation of receipt.
• Step 3: Submit Full Project Proposal (FPP) (by invitation only)
  • If invited, complete the Full Project Proposal (FPP), incorporating feedback from the EOI review.
  • Include required documentation such as: non-confidential project summary, detailed project description, budget, partner information, deliverables, management plans, risk mitigation strategies, and financial commitments.
  • Submit the FPP and supporting documents as directed by CAAIN.
  • Receive email confirmation of receipt.
• Step 4: Await Funding Decision
  • CAAIN reviews all submitted documents and proposals with internal and external experts.
  • The Board of Directors makes final funding decisions.
  • Applicants are notified of the funding decision, with timing subject to possible delays.
• Step 5: Finalize Project Funding Agreement
  • Successful applicants enter into a Project Funding Agreement (PFA) with CAAIN, outlining all terms and obligations.
  • Project activities may begin only after the PFA is fully executed.
• Step 6: Project Reporting and Compliance
  • Meet all reporting requirements as specified by CAAIN, including quarterly and final reports.
  • Participate in knowledge transfer and performance management activities as required throughout and after project completion.

• All funded projects are subject to a 4% administration fee.
• Recipients must report project outcomes, including job creation and technology deployment, as well as environmental, economic, and social benefits.
• Performance monitoring may continue for up to 10 years after project completion, depending on project impact.
• All public communications regarding CAAIN funding must be coordinated with and approved by CAAIN in advance.