Forest Biomass Program — Innovative bioproduct manufacturing stream

Who is eligible?

This grant targets businesses, municipalities, Indigenous communities, and not-for-profit organizations with projects focused on expanding the use of forest biomass and enhancing the forest biomass supply chain within Ontario.

• For-profit companies operating in Ontario that produce bioproducts in an existing facility using forest biomass, or will adopt the use of forest biomass in their bioproducts production.
• Canadian not-for-profit organizations that can help to facilitate investments in Ontario’s forest bioeconomy.

Who is not eligible

Due to strict eligibility criteria, certain types of companies and industries are excluded from applying for the Forest Biomass Program — Innovative Bioproduct Manufacturing Stream. Restrictions are in place to target the grant's funds toward projects that align with Ontario's forest bioeconomy goals.

• Companies not operating within Ontario.
• Businesses that do not produce bioproducts using forest biomass.
• Entities not involved in the commercialization or technological development of forest biomass-related projects.
• Projects below Technology Readiness Level 5 (TRL 5) in development.

Eligible expenses

Eligible expenses for the grant are those that are incremental and directly connected to the project, facilitating the development and commercialization of innovative bioproducts using forest biomass.

• Professional, technical, and legal services.
• Salaries, wages, and benefits (excluding post-employment benefits such as severance).
• Planning and design costs.
• Training and skills development.
• Transportation costs.
• Capital costs, including purchase and installation of equipment and machinery.
• Rolling stock necessary for the project, such as harvesting equipment and biomass processing equipment.
• Material costs.
• Permits or approvals.
• Installation and commissioning costs.
• Overhead costs directly related to the project, up to 15% of total contribution.
• Travel, including accommodation, meals, and allowances.
• In-kind contribution of staff time by organization’s employees (excluding total in-kind contributions exceeding 10% of total eligible costs).
• New facility or facility modifications and upgrades specific to the project.
• Research and development costs, including third-party verification of technology readiness level, certification, and standards testing.

Eligible geographic areas

The eligible geographical area for this grant includes those with Ontario-based projects. This focus is intended to stimulate local economic growth and enhance the forest biomass supply chain within the region.

• Ontario, Canada

Here are additional relevant details for this grant:

• The program is bound by the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, meaning any information provided may be subject to disclosure.
• Approved projects may be announced publicly.
• This is a discretionary, non-entitlement, competitive program with a limited budget, so not all applicants are guaranteed funding.
• No contractual relationship exists between applicants and the province until a funding agreement is executed.