Invest Nova Scotia — Greenshoots

Who is eligible?

The GreenShoots program is open to start-ups in Nova Scotia in the agri-technology and bioeconomy sectors, including areas like agri-management, anaerobic digestion, bioproducts, precision agriculture, and cannabis technology. Applicants must be registered in Nova Scotia, have a product at or beyond TRL 4, demonstrate ownership, be under certain financial thresholds, and have identified market needs.

Who is not eligible

This grant excludes certain companies primarily based on their funding status and industrial focus. The restrictions are intended to maintain alignment with the strategic goals of fostering innovation in agri-technology and bioeconomy sectors.

• Companies that have raised more than $25,000 in equity investment from Invest Nova Scotia.

Eligible expenses

The GreenShoots grant is designed to support early-stage technology companies within the agri-technology and bioeconomy sectors. This initiative aims to enhance innovation and economic impact in these fields, promoting technological advancements and market potential.

• Development of new knowledge-based products in agri-technology and bioeconomy sectors.
• Advancement of technology solutions in agriculture management and agri-waste management.
• Innovations in anaerobic digestion and aquaculture technologies.
• Creation of bioenergy and bioproducts such as biofibers, biocomposites, biomaterials, and bioplastics.
• Research in crop science and crop protection technologies.
• Utilization of fermentation processes and advancements in plant genetics.
• Implementation of precision agriculture using data analytics.
• Development of consumer and industrial agri-food innovations.
• Innovations in natural health products related to the bioeconomy sector.
• Technological advancements in cannabis technology.

Eligible geographic areas

This grant is limited to companies that are registered and based in a specific geographic region. Eligible areas are specified to promote regional economic growth and support local innovation.

• Start-ups registered and based in Nova Scotia.

Here are additional relevant details for this grant:

• Shortlisted applicants must submit their presentation electronically 24 hours before their pitch session.
• Pitches will be held virtually via Zoom, and each session includes a 10-minute presentation followed by a 10-minute Q&A.
• Feedback is available upon request for all shortlisted applicants after their pitch.
• The award can cover up to 90% of eligible costs, up to a maximum of $40,000.
• Successful applicants must enter into a program agreement with the involved organizations.
• The confidentiality of submissions is maintained, with submissions viewed only by those involved in the judging process.
• The program reserves the right to announce the winners publicly.