The Agri-Innovate Program, part of the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP), supports the agricultural sector by encouraging innovation and the adoption of advanced technologies and processes. This initiative helps Canadian agricultural and agri-food businesses enhance their productivity, improve operational efficiency, and strengthen their competitiveness.
What is the Agri-Innovate Program?
The Agri-Innovate Program is a federal funding initiative under the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP). Its goal is to help for-profit organizations bring innovative technologies to market and integrate cutting-edge solutions into their operations. The program is ideal for businesses looking to:
- Commercialize new agricultural, agri-food, or agri-based technologies and processes.
- Demonstrate market-ready innovations through pilot projects or showcase sites.
- Adopt advanced technologies or processes that enhance productivity and efficiency.
By targeting these areas, the program aims to enhance sustainability, increase efficiency, and promote innovation across the agricultural and agri-food industries.
Funding Details
Through the Agri-Innovate Program, eligible applicants can receive up to $5 million in repayable contributions.
- Cost-Sharing:
- Standard projects are funded on a 50% cost-share basis (50% from Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) and 50% from the applicant).
- Enhanced cost-sharing (60% AAFC and 40% applicant) is available for organizations led or owned (over 50%) by under-represented groups, including:
- Indigenous Peoples
- Youth
- Women
- Visible minorities
- Persons with disabilities
- 2SLGBTQI+ individuals
This flexible funding model ensures businesses of all sizes and backgrounds can access the support they need to innovate and thrive.
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Be a for-profit organization incorporated in Canada.
- Propose projects that align with the program’s objectives, such as:
- Commercialization of new technologies or processes.
- Demonstration of innovative solutions ready for the market.
- Adoption of technologies to improve operations or efficiency.
Supported Activities
The program focuses on activities that enhance innovation and competitiveness. These may include:
- Advanced manufacturing and automation.
- Integration of robotics, digitization, or other modern technologies.
- Equipment or system upgrades to improve sustainability or operational efficiency.
Application Process
The Agri-Innovate Program accepts applications on an ongoing basis until March 31, 2028, or until all funding is allocated. To apply, businesses must complete a two-stage process:
- Project Summary Submission: Submit an initial summary of your project to ensure it meets program criteria.
- Full Application: If your summary is approved, provide a detailed application outlining your project scope, costs, and expected outcomes.
All funded projects must be completed by March 31, 2028.
Call EVAMAX today to get started on your application!
Reference
https://agriculture.canada.ca/en/programs/agriinnovate
