How much funding can be received?

The digital plan will set out a series of actions involving the selection, purchase and integration of identified technological solutions. This is a crucial step in the digital turnaround of an SME. The project will enable a food processing company to draw up its action plan, choose the solution best suited to its context, select equipment and receive support in integrating the solutions.

grant_single_labels|projects

There are several projects and activities eligible for this grant, focusing on digital transformation in the food processing industry.

Acquisition and implementation of digital tools and technologies.
Automation and robotization of food processing operations.
Adoption of traceability and product origin tracking using digital tools.
Data warehousing and business intelligence (BI) solutions.
Integration of artificial intelligence (AI) for predictive modeling and machine learning.
Employee training and digital skill development.

grant_single|admissibleProjectsExample

$15,000

Calgary

Implementing a data warehousing solution for a meat processing facility

$15,000

Halifax

Selection and integration of digital tools in a confectionery company

$15,000

Edmonton

Developing digital skills for employees in a beverage bottling company

$15,000

Montreal

Integration of AI for predictive quality control in a bakery located

$15,000

Vancouver

Automation of packaging line for a seafood processing company

$15,000

Toronto

Adopting traceability for product origin in a dairy processing plant

grant_single_labels|admissibility

The eligibility criteria for this grant focus on ensuring that the applicant companies are prepared for a successful digital transformation and have the necessary financial and human resources. Eligible applicants must meet specific criteria related to their digital readiness, strategic planning, financial capacity, and business operations.

A completed digital diagnostic is required.
A simplified strategic planning exercise must be completed (including a mission, vision, and business development axes).
The company must be able to invest 40% of the total project funding, amounting to $10,000 for a project of up to $25,000.
The company must have sufficient human resources to undertake the project within a short timeframe.
The company must have achieved a minimum annual revenue of $1M in the previous financial year.

grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply

Yes, there are specific types of companies that are eligible for this grant. The eligible companies are those within the food processing sector in Québec that have completed a digital diagnostic, among other criteria.

Companies in the sector of food processing.
Have completed a digital diagnostic.
Have a strategic planning exercise completed.
Have the capacity to invest 40% of the project’s total financing.
Have the human resources to complete the project within a short timeframe.
Have achieved a minimum of $1M in revenue in the previous financial year.

grant_eligibility_criteria|who_cannot_apply

The grant is not available to several types of companies. These include those engaged in agriculture, sectors related to agriculture, and suppliers of various services.

Agriculture companies
Sectors related to agriculture
Suppliers (transport, packaging, solutions technological)

grant_eligibility_criteria|eligible_expenses

Eligible expenses for this grant include various technological and implementation costs aimed at supporting the digital transformation of food processing businesses.

Selection, purchase, and integration of technological solutions
Data organization, business intelligence, and artificial intelligence
Consultation and expert guidance services
Employee training and digital skill development

grant_single_labels|criteria

Yes, there are evaluation and selection criteria for this grant. Below is a summary followed by the detailed criteria in bullet point form:

To be eligible for the grant, the applicant must be a transformative food processing company and meet specific financial and operational requirements. The eligibility depends on completing a digital diagnosis and planning strategic initiatives to demonstrate the company’s preparedness and willingness to invest in the digital transition.

Complete a digital diagnosis (Investissement Québec offers a subsidy for this).
Complete a strategic planning exercise (must include a defined mission, vision, and development axes).
Demonstrate the ability to invest 40% of the total project funding, i.e., $10,000 on a project worth a maximum of $25,000.
Have human resources available to complete the project within a short period.
Have achieved a minimum revenue of $1M in the previous financial year.

grant_single_labels|register

Step 1: Complete a Digital Diagnostic
Ensure your company has undergone a digital diagnostic to evaluate your current state.
Investment Québec offers a subsidy for this step.
Step 2: Perform Strategic Planning
Have a simplified strategic plan in place, which includes a clear mission, vision, and development goals for your company.
Step 3: Demonstrate Financial Capacity
Show that your company can invest 40% of the total project cost, i.e., $10,000 for a project valued at $25,000.
Step 4: Ensure Human Resources Availability
Confirm your company has the necessary human resources to complete the project within a short timeframe, typically 16 weeks.
Step 5: Verify Revenue Requirement
Ensure your company had a minimum revenue of $1M in the previous fiscal year.
Step 6: Prepare and Submit Application
Fill out the required application forms, including the request form and prequalification form.
Submit all required documentation to otn@conseiltaq.com.

grant_single_labels|otherInfo

The grant focuses on supporting the digital transformation of food processing companies in Quebec, with specific eligibility criteria and a structured application process.

The program requires a minimum investment of 40% from the participating company.
The project must be completed within 4 months from the agreement signing date.
The project includes two main components: implementation of digital solutions and optimization through advanced technologies like AI and BI.
Eligible companies must have achieved at least $1 million in revenue in the previous financial year.

grant_single_labels|contact

otn@conseiltaq.com

514 249-9494

Apply to this program

Summary of the Offensive Digital Transformation Program (OTN)

The Offensive Digital Transformation (OTN) Program, spearheaded by the Quebec Ministry of Economy, Innovation, and Energy in collaboration with the Conseil de la transformation alimentaire du Québec (CTAQ), aims to support Quebec’s food processing companies in their digital transformation endeavors. With a substantial grant of $2.64 million, the program seeks to accelerate competitiveness, productivity, and innovation within the industry.

Detailed Overview of the Offensive Digital Transformation (OTN) Program

The Offensive Digital Transformation (OTN) Program is a strategic initiative designed to facilitate the digital revolution of food processing companies in Quebec. This initiative, spearheaded by the Quebec Ministry of Economy, Innovation, and Energy in collaboration with the Conseil de la transformation alimentaire du Québec (CTAQ), recognizes the critical need for digitalization to enhance productivity and competitiveness in the food processing sector. By providing substantial financial support and expert guidance, the program endeavors to transform not only the technological landscape of participating businesses but also their operational efficacy and market positioning. Context and Rationale The landscape of food processing is evolving rapidly, marked by technological advancements that promise to redefine how industries operate. For Quebec's food processing companies, keeping pace with these changes is no longer optional but imperative for survival and prosperity. The OTN Program has been designed with the overarching goal of aiding these companies in their digital transformation journey, thus ensuring they remain competitive in a global market that increasingly values technological integration. Program Objectives The central objectives of the Offensive Digital Transformation (OTN) Program include: 1. Enhancing the competitiveness and productivity of food processing companies by integrating digital solutions. 2. Addressing the challenges of labor scarcity and retention through automation and robotization. 3. Ensuring food autonomy and traceability by using digital tools to manage product origins and supply chains. 4. Guaranteeing the continuity of food supply chains through advanced information and digital technology applications. Program Components The OTN Program is structured into two primary components to address diverse aspects of digital transformation:

Component 1 - Digital Plan Implementation: This component involves the selection, purchase, and implementation of identified technological solutions. Companies are required to work with digital transformation experts to create a detailed digital plan that outlines necessary actions and technological investments. This stage is crucial for establishing a clear roadmap for technological integration, ensuring that each company adopts the most appropriate and effective solutions for their unique context.
Component 2 - Optimization and Innovation: Post-implementation, this component focuses on optimizing newly integrated technologies and exploring advanced digital applications. This may include data warehousing, business intelligence (BI), and artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance operational efficiencies and strategic decision-making. Through this component, companies are supported in maintaining technological advancements and capitalizing on new opportunities presented by digital transformation.

Eligibility and Funding Criteria To participate in the OTN Program, companies must meet specific eligibility and funding criteria: 1. The company must be a food processor, defined as an entity that transforms raw or fresh food materials into products with added value. 2. The company must demonstrate a minimum annual revenue of $1 million in the preceding financial year. 3. Participation in a digital diagnosis facilitated by Investissement Québec, which funds this initial assessment, is required. 4. Companies need to exhibit the capacity to invest 40% of the total project cost, highlighting their financial commitment to the digital transformation process. Support and Consultancy Acknowledging the complexity of digital transformation, the OTN Program ensures companies receive ample support and consultancy. The CTAQ collaborates with designated integrators like Coboom and Productique Québec, who are experts in guiding firms through each phase of the digital transformation. These integrators provide invaluable assistance in developing digital plans, selecting and purchasing tools, and optimizing existing processes. Moreover, companies have the liberty to choose their consultants, provided the selected advisors are not solution providers themselves, ensuring unbiased and comprehensive consultancy services. Change Management and Workforce Training A significant component of the OTN Program is managing change within the workforce and upskilling employees to handle new technologies. The Ministry of Labor (MTESS) has established programs that can fund up to 85% of the training expenses, thereby ensuring that the workforce is adequately prepared for digital integration. Successful change management is pivotal for the program's success as it mitigates resistance and aligns the workforce with new technological processes. Application Process Companies interested in the OTN Program must follow a structured application process, which includes:

Initial Consultation: This involves meeting the program's basic prerequisites, completing a digital diagnosis, and formulating a strategic plan.
Submission of Documentation: Companies need to submit necessary documents, including financial statements, proof of revenue, and evidence of planned investments.
Application Forms: The application involves filling out forms such as the Request for Qualification and the Project Proposal Form, which are reviewed by the CTAQ.

The application and supporting documents should be directed to the CTAQ via the provided contact details, ensuring that all forms are duly completed and requirements are meticulously met. Program Duration and Deadlines The OTN Program is time-sensitive, emphasizing swift yet effective implementation of digital transformation initiatives. Projects are expected to be completed within four months of the agreement signing between the CTAQ and the participating company. The overall program is slated to conclude by June 30, 2025, making it crucial for interested companies to initiate their applications promptly to leverage this opportunity. Expected Outcomes and Benefits Participating in the OTN Program presents an array of potential benefits for food processing companies, including: 1. Enhanced efficiency and productivity through streamlined operations and advanced technology integration. 2. Increased competitiveness in both local and global markets. 3. Improved traceability and transparency within the food supply chain, fostering consumer trust and regulatory compliance. 4. Greater resilience against labor shortages, thanks to automation and improved workforce capabilities. 5. Access to cutting-edge digital tools and technologies, positioning companies as industry leaders in innovation. Conclusion The Offensive Digital Transformation (OTN) Program stands as a transformative initiative aimed at revolutionizing Quebec's food processing industry. Through substantial financial support, expert guidance, and a strategic focus on digitalization, the program seeks to future-proof food processing companies against the challenges of an ever-evolving market landscape. By fostering technological innovation and operational excellence, the OTN Program not only uplifts individual companies but also bolsters the broader economic and competitive stature of Quebec’s food processing sector. For more detailed information or to engage in the OTN Program, companies should contact Sylvie Bouchard, Vice-President of Business Development at the CTAQ, or visit the official website to access relevant forms and documentation. The journey toward digital transformation awaits, promising enhanced growth, sustainability, and market leadership for forward-thinking food processing enterprises. Contact Information: Email: otn@conseiltaq.com Phone: 450-349-1521 Address: 216, Rue Denison Est, Granby, QC, J2H 2R6