The Canadian Food Innovation Network (CFIN) offers the Innovation Booster program to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in overcoming technical challenges and accelerating commercialization within the food sector. This initiative provides flexible and rapid funding to assist SMEs in advancing their innovative projects.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Innovation Booster program, applicants must:
- Be Canadian-incorporated businesses with annual sales of less than $50 million in their most recently completed fiscal year.
- Focus on demonstrating innovations at Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) 1 to 7. Projects that include TRL 8 and 9 components may be considered if they also encompass TRL 1 to 7 activities.
- Ensure that projects are completed within a 12-month timeframe.
- Concentrate on industrial research and demonstration activities within the food sector, spanning from farm-gate to consumer’s plate. Projects primarily focused on agriculture or primary production are not eligible for funding.
Additionally, all applicants must register for a free CFIN membership through the official website.
Funding Details
The Innovation Booster program supports projects with eligible costs ranging from $20,000 to $200,000. CFIN provides matching funding of up to 50% of the total eligible project costs, with a maximum contribution of $100,000. Funding is provided on a reimbursement basis, and a non-refundable project management fee of 5% of the total project costs eligible for CFIN funding is required.
Application Timelines
The program has two intake rounds scheduled for 2025:
- Round 1: Intake opens on February 24, 2025, with an application deadline of March 25, 2025.
- Round 2: Intake opens on July 7, 2025, with an application deadline of August 12, 2025.
Program Impact
Since its inception, the Innovation Booster program has significantly contributed to the advancement of the Canadian food tech sector. For instance, in December 2024, CFIN awarded a total of $503,465 to 11 food tech projects across Canada. These projects encompassed advancements in artificial intelligence, food production, health-focused ingredient innovation, and sustainable packaging. The industry matched these funds, resulting in over $1 million in total investments.
How to Apply
Interested SMEs should prepare a detailed proposal outlining their specific innovation challenge or technical hurdle, the expertise and resources required, and a clear plan to achieve commercialization within a 12-month period. Applicants must also register for a free CFIN membership through the official website.
Conclusion
The Innovation Booster program serves as a catalyst for SMEs in the Canadian food sector, providing essential funding and support to overcome innovation challenges and expedite the commercialization of new products and processes. By participating in this program, businesses can enhance their competitiveness and contribute to the growth and sustainability of Canada’s food industry.
For more detailed information and application guidelines, visit CFIN’s official Innovation Booster page.
Applications for Round 1 close on March 25, 2025—don’t miss the opportunity to accelerate your food innovation journey.
References
Programs – Canadian Food Innovation Network
Program FAQs – Canadian Food Innovation Network
