How much funding can be received?

Get funding for your project that uses innovative technologies or processes to increase efficiencies in operations and improve products and/or processes.

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This grant is specifically available to companies located in the Northern Ontario region. The eligible locations ensure support for agricultural and agri-food businesses in Northern Ontario.

Businesses with at least one component located in Northern Ontario.
Collaborations that include at least two businesses or organizations situated in Northern Ontario.

grant_single|admissibleProjectsExample

$10,000

Development of eco-friendly packaging for the Sudbury dairy industry

$10,000

Installation of energy-efficient cold storage for seafood products

$10,000

Upgrade to AI-powered machinery for improved productivity in the York tomato processing plant

$10,000

Introducing a clean solar-powered irrigation system in the Edmonton grain farm

$10,000

Implementation of hydroponic systems for sustainable urban farming

$10,000

Developing a new line of organic fruit preserves at the Montreal cooperative

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Eligibility for this grant is determined by specific requirements related to the applicant's legal status, location, and collaboration structure.

The applicant must be a legal entity capable of entering into a legal agreement, such as a corporation, non-profit organization, primary sector producers, processing businesses, distributors, or Indigenous groups (First Nations, Métis, Inuit).
At least one component of the applicant's business must be located in Northern Ontario, and the project activities must take place in Northern Ontario.
Collaborations involving three or more partners are encouraged and must consist of independent parties to avoid potential conflicts of interest, with priority given to those strengthening the value chain in Northern Ontario's agri-food sector.
Both startup (with at least three years of operations) and existing businesses are eligible. Startups must submit a business plan, including cash flow projections, with their application.

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This grant is designed to support legal entities with a focus on agriculture and food production in Northern Ontario. Each applicant must meet the specified legal and operational criteria to be eligible for funding.

Incorporated entities capable of entering legal agreements such as corporations, non-profits, primary producers, processing businesses, distributors, or Indigenous communities including First Nations, Métis, or Inuit.
Collaborative projects comprising at least three independent partners to enhance value chain initiatives in Northern Ontario's agri-food sector.
Businesses must have a physical component in Northern Ontario, and project activities must occur in this region; in collaborations, at least two partners must be located in Northern Ontario.
Eligible startups must have been operating for at least three years and provide a business plan including cash flow forecasts.
Businesses owned primarily (at least 50%) by underrepresented groups are given priority, such as Indigenous peoples, racialized communities, women, youth, LGBTQ2+ persons, disabled persons, newcomers to Canada, and minority official language communities.

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This grant does not specify particular companies or industries that are entirely excluded from eligibility. Restrictions appear to be focused on ensuring applicants meet specific regional and collaborative requirements.

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This grant supports projects aimed at fostering innovation and improving productivity in the agri-food sector of Northern Ontario. Eligible activities focus on the creation of new products, enhancement of productivity, and ecological growth in the agri-food industry.

Acquisition of food processing equipment, including mixers, sterilizers, washing systems, and packaging systems, to create innovative value-added products.
Procurement of packaging materials like vacuum bagging equipment, bottling equipment, and labeling machines to expand new production lines and increase distribution.
Implementation of innovative pest or predator control techniques to boost farm efficiency and crop management.
Adoption of precision agriculture technologies to achieve management goals and increase overall sales.
Use of LED lighting for hydroponic culturing to enhance year-round agricultural productivity.
Installation of irrigation or rainwater harvesting systems to increase productivity and drought resilience.
Adoption of low-tillage or no-till farming practices to improve crop productivity and environmental benefits.
Development of passive solar greenhouse systems to increase year-round production and reduce energy usage.

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Eligible expenses for the grant are those purchases that enable the project's eligible activities to take place directly.

Food or fiber processing equipment.
Greenhouse shelters or other greenhouses.
Food packaging or labeling equipment.
Refrigerated storage equipment.
Construction materials.
Agricultural production equipment.
Delivery costs for equipment.
Technology improvements.

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The evaluation and selection of projects for this grant are based on how well they meet the program’s objectives, with specific criteria determining priority.

Originality and novelty of the products developed for Northern Ontario.
Implementation of new economies to increase production and reduce operational costs.
Clear demonstration of environmental and ecological benefits at a scale of impacts.
Use of innovative equipment or processes.
Enhancement of the value chain, improving efficiency and competitiveness within Northern Ontario's agri-food sector (for collaborations only).
Scalability of the project regarding its ability to increase production/sales globally in the short term.
Direct impact on the Northern Ontario agri-food sector, including job creation/maintenance and business expansion/modernization.
Creation or maintenance of strategic alliances due to the project.
Clear marketing or distribution plan.
Solid business plan including cash flow forecasts and other sources of funds/financing confirmation (required only for start-ups).
Projects that highlight inclusion and diversity, with priority for those led by members of underrepresented groups.
Completion of the application form accurately and thoroughly.

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Step 1: Eligibility Confirmation
- Assess your eligibility against the program criteria to ensure your organization qualifies for the grant.
Step 2: Initial Consultation
- Contact your regional representative (e.g., Ryan Bidal) to discuss your project eligibility and any questions regarding the application process.
- Obtain the official application form from your regional representative.
Step 3: Gather Necessary Documents
- Prepare legal documents such as articles of incorporation, farm business registration number, or main business license.
- For start-ups, prepare a business plan including cash flow projections.
Step 4: Application Preparation
- Complete the application form thoroughly, ensuring all sections are filled accurately.
- Highlight how your project aligns with the program's priorities like innovative product development, productivity improvements, or ecological benefits.
- Ensure the inclusion of a clear marketing or distribution plan.
Step 5: Submit Application
- Submit your completed application form along with all required attachments to the designated submission address or email provided by the representative.
- Ensure submission is done before the stated deadline to avoid disqualification.
Step 6: Post-Submission Process
- Wait for an approval decision, and be prepared to provide any additional information if requested during the review process.
- Upon approval, complete and submit a Client Intake Form to receive further instructions.
Step 7: Final Agreement and Reporting
- Once approved, a contract will be sent for your review and signature.
- Complete a Final Results Report six months post-project completion to secure the remaining 10% of funding.

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Here are additional relevant details for this grant:

The cumulative assistance must not exceed 75% of the total project costs when combined with other funding sources, excluding other FedNor programs.
All approved projects must be completed by December 31, 2024, with final invoices submitted to the Sault Ste. Marie Innovation Centre (SSMIC).
90% of the approved funding will be disbursed upon review of documentation post-purchase, with the remaining 10% released after submission of a final results report.
Only one application for reimbursement per project is allowed.
A client intake form needs to be completed post-approval.
Only one application per intake period is permitted.
Approved applicants from previous SNAPP programs can reapply in the current program if previous projects are completed and closed.
Contact with a regional representative is required before submitting the application to ensure eligibility confirmation and application completeness.

grant_single_labels|documents

Sustainable New Agri-Food Products & Productivity Program — Productivity Enhancement

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ryan.bidal@collegeboreal.ca

Apply to this program

Boosting Sustainability in Northern Ontario's Agri-food Sector

The "Programme de productivité et des produits agroalimentaires du Nord durables" offers financial assistance to support the growth and innovation of Northern Ontario's agri-food enterprises through equipment funding. Designed for producers, businesses, and collaborations, this grant fosters productivity and environmental sustainability across the region's unique agricultural landscape.

Understanding the Impact and Benefits of the Agri-food Sustainability Grant

The "Programme de productivité et des produits agroalimentaires du Nord durables" is a strategic initiative aimed at empowering Northern Ontario's agri-food sector to overcome regional challenges, such as shorter growing seasons, remote market locations, and limited economies of scale. By providing up to $10,000 in funding, with a 50% cost-sharing arrangement, to individual entities and up to $25,000 for collaborations involving three or more legal entities, this program incentivizes the acquisition of essential equipment. The emphasis on collaborations underscores the importance of cultivating strategic partnerships that enhance value chains and reinforce the economic fabric of Northern Ontario's agri-food domain.

The grant specifically targets producers and businesses that are legally recognized entities, capable of entering binding agreements. Eligible applicants include corporations, cooperatives, and Indigenous groups such as First Nations, Métis, and Inuit. The projects supported by this grant are expected to stimulate innovation, creating new products for the market, and advancing productivity through cutting-edge technological adoption. By spotlighting the introduction of novel products and efficient economic strategies, the grant not only aids in expanding market reach but also seeks to improve cost-efficiency and overall operational productivity.

On an environmental front, the grant encourages projects that propose significant ecological benefits, such as reducing carbon footprints and optimizing resource use. Through fostering growth in the ecological footprint, supported projects are expected to achieve a dual impact—enhancing productivity while ensuring sustainability. Eligible projects under the grant framework include those involving innovative pest management, LED technologies for year-round hydroponic production, and the development of solar-powered passive greenhouses. These innovations are designed to meet the dual aims of increased productivity and reduced environmental impact, aligning with global trends toward sustainable agricultural practices.

The criteria for assessment prioritize the novelty and scalability of projects, the degree of environmental impact, and the strength of collaborations. Priority is given to those who demonstrate a clear benefit to the Northern Ontario agri-food sector through job creation, strengthening business ventures, and establishing lasting strategic partnerships. The transparency of the evaluation process is upheld by an independent committee, ensuring fairness and adherence to the program's objectives.

Additionally, the grant supports inclusivity and diversity within the sector, prioritizing businesses owned by underrepresented groups, such as Indigenous peoples, racialized communities, women, LGBTQ2+ individuals, and more. By fostering an inclusive economic environment, the grant aims to harness the full spectrum of community potential, ensuring equitable economic growth throughout Northern Ontario.

Ultimately, this grant represents a strategic investment in the future of Northern Ontario's agri-food sector, providing the necessary resources for businesses to innovate and adapt to modern ecological and economic challenges. It's a holistic approach to regional development, aiming to fortify the economic resilience of Northern communities while securing their environmental sustainability.