The Foodpreneur Scale-Up Program
ON, Canada
Support for high growth food businesses in Southwestern Ontario
grant_single_labels|summary
grant_single|eligibleFinancing
- grant_single|noCondition
grant_single|deadlines
- grant_single|openingDateAugust 01, 2023
- grant_single|closingDateOctober 24, 2023
grant_single|financingType
Expert Advice
grant_single|eligibleIndustries
- Manufacturing
- Wholesale trade
- Retail trade
grant_single|grantors
- Foodpreneur Advantage
grant_single|status
grant_card_status|open
grant_single_labels|preview
Join a 10-week program and get access to food production and distribution industry experts, workshops, and mentoring services that will provide the knowledge and tools to successfully scale your business.
grant_single_labels|projects
Eligible geographical areas for the Foodpreneur Scale-Up Program are specified to focus on businesses located within particular counties in Southwestern Ontario. This eligibility is designed to align with regional economic and development objectives for food production enterprises.
- London/Middlesex
- St Thomas/Elgin
- Sarnia/Lambton
- Chatham/Kent
- Windsor/Essex
grant_single|admissibleProjectsExample
$25,000
Implementation of quality assurance testing for honey production in a small beekeeping business
$60,000
Developing a new line of gluten-free breads for a community bakery
$45,000
Revamping product packaging for local brewery to ensure compliance with quality standards
$70,000
Creating a new vegan snack line for a health food store including product development and marketing
$40,000
Upgrading kitchen equipment for artisanal bakery to improve production efficiency
$75,000
Expanding market reach for local organic farm through rebranding and distribution enhancements
grant_single_labels|admissibility
Eligibility for this program requires that the business meets several specific criteria, demonstrating their readiness and potential for growth.
- Business must be operating for a minimum of 1-year revenue generation and not longer than 5-years.
- The business must have an established consumer packaged good that has been tested in the market.
- Businesses must demonstrate strong growth potential and scalability.
- The business owner must commit to fully participate in the training and mentorship components of the program.
- The business must be located in one of the following counties: London/Middlesex, St Thomas/Elgin, Sarnia/Lambton, Chatham/Kent, Windsor/Essex.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply
The Foodpreneur Scale-Up Program is open to food production and distribution businesses that have been generating revenue for at least one year but not longer than five years. These businesses must have a consumer packaged good that has been market-tested and show strong growth potential and scalability. Additionally, businesses must be located in the specific counties of London/Middlesex, St Thomas/Elgin, Sarnia/Lambton, Chatham/Kent, or Windsor/Essex. Business owners must also commit to fully participating in the program's training and mentorship sessions.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_cannot_apply
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.
grant_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.
grant_eligibility_criteria|zone
The grant is intended to support specific costs that directly contribute to the growth and development of eligible food production and distribution businesses.
- Program participation fees for the Foodpreneur Scale-Up Program.
- Pitches to national chains under the program's guidance.
- Expenses associated with mandatory proposal workshops and review sessions.
- Access to industry experts for consulting and mentorship.
- Costs related to attending group information sessions.
grant_single_labels|criteria
There are evaluation and selection criteria for this grant.
- Business operating for 1-5 years with tested consumer good
- Demonstrates growth potential and scalability
- Business owner's commitment to training and mentorship
- Located in specific counties
grant_single_labels|register
- Step 1: Complete Online Application
- Visit the program's official website starting August 1st.
- Complete a brief online application to address basic eligibility requirements.
- Contact info@foodpreneuradvantage.ca if you have any questions.
- Attend the group information session if you meet the eligibility requirements, where you'll be informed of critical dates and program details.
- Step 2: Attend Business Proposal Workshop
- Participate in a two-hour business proposal workshop.
- Use the knowledge gained to draft a 6-8 page proposal outlining your business's growth potential.
- Submit the proposal within two weeks of the workshop.
- Have your proposal reviewed by an independent review panel.
- Step 3: Discussion with Program Staff
- Meet with program staff to discuss the proposal and address any concerns raised by the review panel.
- Step 4: Apply for Funding Opportunity
- If accepted, apply for up to $5,000 in grant funding through partnering Small Business Centres using the same proposal submission.
- Note that there may be slight contract variations and requirements based on your location, and you must apply in your county of operation.
grant_single_labels|otherInfo
Additional details for applicants include tips and resources to enhance application success:
- Applicants are encouraged to introduce themselves to their local Small Business Centre before applying, as their staff can assist in business growth and preparation for this opportunity.
- The program provides access to a team of experts with diverse experience in graphic design, sales, marketing, distribution, business development, packaging, food safety, regulatory affairs, and entrepreneurship.
- Successful program participants may be eligible for additional funding up to $5,000 through partnering Small Business Centres, as part of their Starter Company training and grant programs.
Apply to this program
Grant Summary
The Foodpreneur Scale-Up Program is a competitive grant program designed for food production and distribution businesses with high growth potential in specific counties. Successful applicants may receive up to $5,000 in funding and access to industry experts and customized workshops.
Grant Details
The Foodpreneur Scale-Up Program offers a unique opportunity for food businesses to scale their operations and enhance their market presence. The program consists of a 10-week hybrid model with online and in-person sessions tailored to provide essential knowledge and tools for business growth.
Eligible businesses must meet specific criteria, including operating for 1 to 5 years, demonstrating growth potential, and being located in select counties in Ontario. The application process involves three steps, starting with an online application submission followed by a business proposal workshop and a review meeting with program staff.
Successful applicants may qualify for the $5,000 grant funded by partnering Small Business Centers, supporting their business growth initiatives. The grant application process aligns with the proposal submission and requires adherence to specific contract variations based on location.
The program boasts a team of experts from various fields such as branding, marketing, packaging, food safety, product development, and business strategy. These experts offer valuable insights and mentorship to help entrepreneurs navigate the complexities of the food industry and achieve success.
Through a comprehensive curriculum covering topics like production processes, food safety regulations, marketing strategies, and cash flow management, participants gain a holistic understanding of the industry dynamics and learn practical skills to scale their businesses effectively.
Overall, the Foodpreneur Scale-Up Program not only provides financial support but also serves as a valuable resource for food businesses looking to expand their reach, enhance their product offerings, and build a sustainable presence in the market.
