How much funding can be received?

The Pan-Canadian Artificial Intelligence Strategy (PCAIS) - Commercialization Stream aims to accelerate the translation of AI science and research into commercial innovations that generate economic and social benefits for Canadians. The program supports activities such as technology leadership, partnerships for scale, diverse and skilled talent pools, access to innovation, and efforts to position Canada as a global leader in AI applications within the plant-based and agrifood sector. Eligible projects must involve a consortium of at least two members, including a Small or Medium Enterprise, and demonstrate meaningful contribution towards the project goals.

grant_single_labels|projects

This grant is available for eligible companies throughout Canada, aiming to foster innovation within the country's plant-based food and ingredients sector. The funding encourages involvement from diverse sectors and geographical locations across the nation.

Companies located anywhere within Canada.

grant_single|admissibleProjectsExample

$112,500

AI-based recruitment platform for agrifood sector

$180,000

AI system for optimizing supply chain in the agrifood industry

$157,500

Developing an AI-driven platform for crop disease detection

$148,500

AI-driven predictive analytics for agribusinesses

$180,000

AI-powered drone technology for precision farming

$135,000

AI integration in smart greenhouse systems

grant_single_labels|admissibility

Eligibility for this grant is determined by specific criteria related to collaborative projects and the inclusion of diverse teams.

The project must involve a consortium comprised of two or more partner companies.
Projects should leverage artificial intelligence to advance Canada's plant-based food, feed, and ingredients ecosystem.
The consortium should actively engage diverse and inclusive teams, with meaningful participation from women, Indigenous Peoples, and/or other under-represented groups.
The project proposals should align with Protein Industries Canada’s Investment Thesis and Global Innovation Cluster priorities.
The project must demonstrate the potential for transformation and innovation in the plant-based and agrifood sector.

grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply

This grant targets consortia of companies that are developing or utilizing artificial intelligence technology to enhance Canada's plant-based food, feed, and ingredients sector. Eligible consortia should demonstrate collaboration, diversity, and potential for innovation in this field.

grant_eligibility_criteria|eligible_expenses

The eligible activities for this grant focus on using artificial intelligence to enhance the plant-based food, feed and ingredients value chain. These projects aim to leverage AI technologies to drive innovation and address gaps in the sector.

Utilizing AI technology to improve plant-based food production processes.
Developing AI-driven tools to enhance sustainability in the agri-food sector.
Integrating AI systems to optimize the supply chain in the plant-based ingredients market.

grant_eligibility_criteria|zone

The eligible geographic zones for this grant span across Canada, allowing participation from various regions within the country. Participation from non-Canadian entities is also permissible upon approval.

All of Canada
Non-Canadian entities (with approval)

grant_single_labels|criteria

The evaluation and selection of projects for this grant are based on specific criteria to ensure alignment with Protein Industries Canada’s objectives.

Alignment of project outcomes with Protein Industries Canada’s program areas and Global Innovation Cluster themes.
Potential for transformation and innovation within the plant-based food, feed, and ingredients value chain.
Inclusion of diverse and inclusive teams, including the participation of women, Indigenous Peoples, and other under-represented groups.
Assessment of risk and development of a mitigation strategy.
Evaluation through the Data and AI Readiness Program regarding use cases, product strategy, organizational resources, technology, data quality, and risk management.

grant_single_labels|register

Here are the steps to submit an application for this grant:

Step 1: Review Program Guide
- Download the Artificial Intelligence Program Guide in either English or French.
- Read through the guide thoroughly to understand the program structure and eligibility requirements.
Step 2: Initial Contact
- Email Protein Industries Canada at projects@proteinsupercluster.ca to discuss your project idea.
- Receive feedback regarding project eligibility and potential improvements.
Step 3: Expression of Interest (EOI)
- Develop a compelling EOI outlining the project, its objectives, and how it meets the program criteria.
- Submit the EOI before August 30, 2024, or until all funds are allocated.
Step 4: Participate in the Data and AI Readiness Program (if required)
- Engage with external service providers to assess data readiness and project feasibility.
- Define and evaluate project aspects such as use cases, technology, and risks.
Step 5: Full Project Proposal
- Develop a full project proposal providing detailed information about the project scope, budget, workplan, and expected outcomes.
- Work with Protein Industries Canada to refine the proposal.
Step 6: Submission for Evaluation
- Submit the full project proposal to the Project Selection Committee for evaluation.
- Avoid any direct contact with the committee members as per the interaction policy.
Step 7: Await Decision
- Wait for the evaluation process to be completed, which may take up to six weeks.
- Receive feedback and the decision regarding your project application.

grant_single_labels|otherInfo

Here are some additional key points about the grant:

Projects must engage diverse and inclusive teams and ensure meaningful participation of under-represented groups.
Applicants are encouraged to support project development with Protein Industries Canada staff throughout the proposal process.
Successful projects may require members to comply with the Code of Member Conduct and the Project Selection Committee-Applicant Interaction Policy.
Consortia need to attend a Proposal Orientation meeting upon EOI approval.
A standard project administration fee of 4% of total eligible costs applies to Project Stream and System Stream projects but not to Community and Capacity Building Stream projects.
Data governance and intellectual property management strategies must be clearly defined and documented.
Evaluation involves the Eligible Projects Selection Committee and potentially additional technical experts.
Approved projects will require signing a Master Project Agreement before starting to claim eligible cost reimbursements.

grant_single_labels|contact

projects@proteinsupercluster.ca

Apply to this program

Advancing the Agrifood Sector through Artificial Intelligence

This grant opportunity from Protein Industries Canada focuses on leveraging artificial intelligence to drive innovation within the plant-based food, feed, and ingredients sector. It aims to catalyze growth and sustainability, contributing to the ambitious goal of achieving $25 billion in global plant-based product sales by 2035.

Exploring the Potential of Artificial Intelligence in Plant-Based Industries

Protein Industries Canada's artificial intelligence program is a groundbreaking initiative designed to fortify Canada’s position as a global leader in the plant-based agrifood sector. With an impressive investment of $30 million running through to 2026, the grant seeks to empower consortia of innovative companies that apply AI technologies to enhance the development and marketing of plant-based foods, feed, and ingredients. This initiative underscores the vital role of technology in meeting rising consumer demand for high-quality plant-based protein options while concurrently addressing sustainability and innovation goals.

The program operates through a robust framework involving two phases: the Expression of Interest (EOI) and the Full Project Proposal. This structured approach ensures that participating consortia comprise partners who are strategically positioned and adequately prepared to harness AI effectively in advancing the agrifood sector. Additionally, the requirement for a Data and AI Readiness Program seeks to provide consortia with essential insights and evaluations about their project scope, data quality, and risk management strategies, thus fostering a thoroughly researched and viable project plan.

One of the key aspirations of this grant is to bridge current gaps in the plant-based food value chain and provide a platform for trailblazing technologies that optimize processes from farm to table. By encouraging diverse and inclusive teams, the program prioritizes the meaningful participation of women, Indigenous Peoples, and other under-represented groups, ensuring that a wide array of perspectives and talents are integrated into project planning and execution.

Successful applicants will find themselves in a unique position to align with Protein Industries Canada's Global Innovation Cluster themes, which emphasize sustainable agricultural practices, cutting-edge technological innovation, and environmental stewardship. Moreover, the program’s strategic alignment with national and global economic priorities promises to enhance Canada's competitive edge in the burgeoning plant-based market.

The grant also functions as a catalyst for cross-industry collaboration, prompting businesses to forge strategic partnerships that span sectors and geographies. Such collaborations are instrumental in pooling resources and expertise, which is integral to pioneering breakthroughs in AI applications that can be scaled across various domains of the plant-based ecosystem.

Overall, the Protein Industries Canada AI program is not merely a funding opportunity but a pivotal force for transformative change within the plant-based agrifood industry. By strategically investing in AI-driven projects, it aims to create a ripple effect that extends beyond immediate economic gains to encompass broader environmental and social benefits.

This initiative is a call to action for innovative companies across Canada to participate in reshaping the future of food through technology, ensuring that plant-based alternatives are not only a cornerstone of modern diets but also a testament to sustainable and ethical food production practices. The projected rise to $25 billion in global sales is an emblem of the potential impact such advancements can achieve when backed by strategic funding and collaborative effort.