As the global demand for plant-based protein surges, Canada stands poised to capture a significant share of this expanding market. With predictions that Canada could hold a $25 billion market share in plant-based foods by 2035, it’s clear that innovation and collaboration are key. Protein Industries Canada is leading the charge with its Technology Leadership Program, aimed at fostering the growth of plant-based ingredients and products through co-investment and strategic partnerships.
This funding opportunity is designed to drive innovation across the entire value chain, from genetics to final products on grocery store shelves. With $150 million allocated to this second round of technology programs, the goal is to build on Canada’s strengths as an agricultural leader and accelerate the commercialization of new plant-based foods and ingredients.
Amount of Funding Available
Protein Industries Canada will co-invest up to 45% of eligible project costs, providing significant financial support for innovative projects. The total investment under this program is expected to exceed $2 billion by 2028, supporting the development of nearly 1,500 new products and services.
Eligibility
To qualify for investment under the Protein Industries Canada funding program, projects must meet the following criteria:
Eligible Applicants:
- Projects must involve at least two members of Protein Industries Canada, ideally three or more, with at least one being a Small or Medium Enterprise (SME) as defined by Statistics Canada.
- At least two partners must be Canadian companies or multinational corporations with significant operations in Canada, and non-Canadian entities can participate with approval.
- Including academic or research institutions is encouraged but not mandatory.
Project Requirements:
- Each consortium member must make a meaningful contribution, whether through financial support or by providing intellectual property (IP) or market expertise.
- At least two members are required to contribute financially, and Protein Industries Canada will reimburse up to 45% of eligible project costs.
- The project must be new, distinct from current business activities, and reliant on consortium involvement.
- At least one member should represent a target customer or end-user of the new technology.
- Projects must show strong project management capabilities to handle complex, multi-party collaborations.
- The project cannot be classified as a “designated project” under federal environmental or impact assessment legislation.
The program focuses on four strategic priority areas:
- Genetics
Advancing genetic development to enhance processing efficiency, improve quality, refine sensory attributes, and create new types of ingredients. - Crops
Implementing technologies that boost sustainability on farms and ensure better information flow throughout the value chain. - Ingredients
Developing, scaling, and refining plant-based ingredients for more efficient production and market readiness. - Products
Transforming Canadian-grown ingredients and co-products into ready-to-consume products for the marketplace.
Application Deadline
Applications for the Technology Leadership Program are accepted on an ongoing basis, with projects evaluated through a two-part process: the Expression of Interest (EOI) and the Full Project Proposal. Consortia are encouraged to engage with Protein Industries Canada early to ensure their projects meet the eligibility criteria and align with the program’s objectives.
Interested in learning more or exploring how EVAMAX can help you apply? Contact us today to get started on turning your idea into a groundbreaking project.
Resources:
Technology Leadership | Protein Industries Canada
Tech-Program-Guide_10022024.pdf (proteinindustriescanada.ca)
