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Source verified July 10, 2026
The Foodpreneur Scale-Up Program
Hybrid scale-up support for food businesses
Latest source updateLast Update: July 10, 2026Latest change: The Scale-Up Program page now shows applications open on August 11, 2026, replacing the closed status.View change
Latest source update
Last Update: July 10, 2026
Latest change: The Scale-Up Program page now shows applications open on August 11, 2026, replacing the closed status.
Applications Open for Foodpreneur Scale-Up Program
The Scale-Up Program page now shows applications open on August 11, 2026, instead of applications closed. This updates the intake window for the Foodpreneur Scale-Up Program and makes the program newly available to applicants in the current cycle. A related Resources page also updated the Phil Singeris section wording, showing the role as Manager, Food Entrepreneurship & Innovation and adjusting the section heading. No visible changes were made to eligibility, funding terms, or contact details.
Funding available
$ 5,000
Deadline
Open continuously
Opened August 11, 2026
Location
Ontario, Canada
Overview
The Foodpreneur Scale-Up Program supports food and beverage manufacturers, producers, and distributors with strong growth potential through a hybrid 4-month training program. It covers production process and shelf-life testing, food safety and traceability, Canadian food labelling, buyer and distributor connections, packaging, and marketing strategies.
/100
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
- Maximum amount : 5,000 $
Funds Providers
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- All industries
Location
- Ontario
Legal structures
- For-profit business
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.
Official resources
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
- Food and beverage manufacturers.
- Food and beverage producers.
- Food and beverage distribution businesses.
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
Selection criteria
- Competitive process with limited class sizes.
- Strong growth potential and scalability.
- Review by an independent panel.
How to apply
- Step 1: Complete Online Application
- Submit a brief online application starting August 1.
- Meet the basic eligibility requirements to be invited to the next stage.
- Step 2: Attend Proposal Workshop
- Attend a two-hour business proposal workshop.
- Submit a brief 6-8 page proposal within two weeks.
- The proposal is reviewed by an independent review panel.
- Step 3: Meet with Program Staff
- Discuss the proposal with program staff.
- Address any concerns raised by the review panel.
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
- The program is delivered in a hybrid model with both online and in-person sessions.
Contacts
Frequently Asked Questions about the The Foodpreneur Scale-Up Program Program
What is the The Foodpreneur Scale-Up Program?
The Foodpreneur Scale-Up Program supports food and beverage manufacturers, producers, and distributors with strong growth potential through a hybrid 4-month training program. It covers production process and shelf-life testing, food safety and traceability, Canadian food labelling, buyer and distributor connections, packaging, and marketing strategies.
How much funding can be received?
The Foodpreneur Scale-Up Program Funds up to $5,000 of admissible expenses.
Who is eligible for the The Foodpreneur Scale-Up Program program?
To be eligible for the The Foodpreneur Scale-Up Program program, you must:
At least 1 year of revenue generation and a market-tested consumer packaged good
Minimum $50,000 annual revenue
At least 10 active wholesale accounts and full participation in training and mentorship
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.
Who can I contact for more information about the The Foodpreneur Scale-Up Program?
You can contact Foodpreneur Advantage by email at info@foodpreneuradvantage.ca or by phone at none.
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