The Foodpreneur Scale-Up Program

This grant offers support to successful applicants through a financial partnership with local Small Business Centres aimed at bolstering participating businesses with additional resources. The financing modalities are designed to enhance growth and development opportunities for eligible food production and distribution companies.

• Eligible applicants may receive up to $5,000 in grant funding.
• Funding is available through partnering Small Business Centres.
• The grants are part of the Starter Company training and grant programs.
• Application for the grant is restricted to the county where the business operates.

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.

Who is eligible?

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

This grant is designated for businesses located in specific counties within Canada to foster regional economic growth in the agri-food sector. Selected areas are chosen based on strategic community partnerships and business development needs.

• London/Middlesex
• St Thomas/Elgin
• Sarnia/Lambton
• Chatham/Kent
• Windsor/Essex

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

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.