Open
Last Update: March 4, 2026
Funding available
Varies by project
Timeline
- Open Date : August 1, 2024
Location
Ontario, Canada
Overview
The Foodpreneur Scale-Up Program supports food and beverage manufacturers, producers, and distributors with high growth potential. Successful applicants may also be eligible for up to $5,000 through partnering Small Business Centres.
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Opportunity Score
Moderate potential, but conditions must align.
At a glance
Funding available
Financing goals
- Develop a new product or service
- Access new markets
- Launch or market a product/service
Eligible Funding
- Varies by project
Timeline
- Open Date : August 1, 2024
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- Manufacturing
- Wholesale trade
- Retail trade
Location
- Ontario
Legal structures
- For-profit business
- Sole proprietorship
Annual revenue
- All revenue ranges
Organisation size
- All organization sizes
Audience
- Startups
Next Steps
1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility
Activities funded
- Hybrid training and mentorship for food and beverage businesses.
- Workshops on scaling operations, product development, and market growth.
- Peer discussion circles and expert-led business support.
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
- Food and beverage manufacturers.
- Food and beverage producers.
- Food and beverage distributors.
Who is not eligible
This grant is specifically designed for high growth potential food production and distribution businesses. While the program outlines eligibility, it does not provide explicit exclusions or restrictions for other types of companies or industries beyond what has been described in its eligibility criteria.
Eligible expenses
The Foodpreneur Scale-Up Program provides targeted support for high-growth potential food production and distribution businesses. Eligible projects and activities focus on equipping business owners with the essential skills and knowledge to effectively scale their operations.
- Enhancing production processes and conducting shelf-life testing.
- Understanding food safety, regulation, and traceability requirements.
- Navigating Canadian food labelling regulations.
- Building connections with buyers, brokers, and distributors.
- Developing effective product pitches for national chains.
- Innovating product or recipe development.
- Selling products to retailers.
- Addressing packaging needs for food and beverage products.
- Managing cash flow for current and future profitability.
- Implementing strategic marketing and branding strategies.
Eligible geographic areas
- London/Middlesex
- St. Thomas/Elgin
- Sarnia/Lambton
- Chatham/Kent
- Windsor/Essex
Processing and Agreement
- Applications are reviewed through a three-step process after submission.
- Proposals are reviewed by an independent review panel.
- Applicants then meet with program staff to discuss the proposal and any concerns raised.
Additional information
- Applications for the fall 2024 cohort begin on August 1.
- The program is delivered in a hybrid format, with online and in-person sessions.
- Class sizes are limited and selection is competitive.
Documents and links
Frequently Asked Questions about the The Foodpreneur Scale-Up Program Program
Here are answers to the most common questions about the The Foodpreneur Scale-Up Program. This section explains what the program is, how much funding is available, eligibility requirements, application deadlines, and other important details to help you determine if this grant is right for your business.
What is the The Foodpreneur Scale-Up Program?
The Foodpreneur Scale-Up Program supports food and beverage manufacturers, producers, and distributors with high growth potential. Successful applicants may also be eligible for up to $5,000 through partnering Small Business Centres.
Who is eligible for the The Foodpreneur Scale-Up Program program?
To be eligible for the The Foodpreneur Scale-Up Program program, you must:
1 to 5 years in operation
Market-tested consumer packaged good
Minimum $50,000 annual revenue
What expenses are eligible under The Foodpreneur Scale-Up Program?
Hybrid training and mentorship for food and beverage businesses.
Workshops on scaling operations, product development, and market growth.
Peer discussion circles and expert-led business support.
Where is the The Foodpreneur Scale-Up Program available?
The The Foodpreneur Scale-Up Program program is available the province of Ontario.
Is the The Foodpreneur Scale-Up Program a grant, loan, or tax credit?
The Foodpreneur Scale-Up Program is a Expert Advice
Who are the financial supporters of the The Foodpreneur Scale-Up Program?
The Foodpreneur Scale-Up Program is funded by Foodpreneur Advantage