How To Fund Agricultural Innovation Through Government Funding 

According to the government of Canada website, agriculture and agri-food are among Canada’s most promising economic growth sectors . We can be a leader in sustainable food production and processing thanks to Canada’s key advantages. A growing number of people are looking for the kinds of food that Canadian farmers and processors can provide. As a result of Canada’s reputation for environmental stewardship, Canadian products are likely to see an increase in demand and price. 

To continue the sustainable growth that the agriculture sector requires to remain competitive on the world stage, there are a variety of government funding programs for agriculture available. 

This article will look at a significant program now available through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (SCAP), the AgriScience Program. 

SCAP AgriScience Program 

By accelerating innovation through pre-commercial research and pre-commercial activities, the AgriScience Program benefits the agricultural and agri-food sector and Canadians. The program focuses on three priority areas: Climate Change and Environment, Economic Growth and Development, or Sector Resilience and Societal Challenges. 

Amount of Funding 

A portion of a project’s eligible costs can be awarded up to $5 million in non-renewable funding. There are applications available for: 

• Industry-funded non-repayable contributions; 
• AAFC scientists supporting collaborative research and development; and 

• Both together. 

Eligible Applicants 

The following criteria may apply to applicants: 

• Organizations with a profit motive, such as communes; 
• An organization that operates independently of profit-making activities, such as an association, club, co-op, society, or sector council; and 

• Organizations and individuals associated with Indigenous cultures. 

Eligible Activities 

There are several criteria that must be met for a project to be eligible: 

Environmental change and climate change: 

• Among the activities that can be undertaken are greenhouse gas emissions reduction and carbon sequestration, climate change adaptation, soil health, water quality, air quality, biodiversity, and plastics management. 

Development and growth of the economy: 

• Emerging technologies can be used to address labour shortages, increase productivity, improve input efficiency, support alternative production methods, and increase agriculture, food, and agricultural-based industrial product sales with value added. 

Challenges and resilience in the sector: 

• Agriculture can involve antimicrobial resistance, animal health and welfare, plant health, food security, biological alternatives to chemical inputs, and the use of artificial intelligence and big data. 

Program Deadline 

There will be no application deadline until funding has been fully committed or until otherwise announced. Project costs incurred prior to application submission are not eligible for funding. The Funding verdict is estimated to take 100 business days. The program will not distribute funds after March 31, 2028. 

Learn How to Fund Your Agriculture Business with Government Funding Today 

As Canada’s agricultural sector embraces innovation and adopts sustainable practices, the sector can continue to grow, contribute to the nation’s economic prosperity and food security, while at the same time protecting the environment for future generations by embracing innovation and adopting sustainable practices. 

Your business can also learn about the top programs available from one of our government funding professionals by signing up for a free government funding webinar. 

If you are interested in learning about the best ways to manage, grow, and finance your Ontario agri-food business, please download our free Canadian Agri-Business Growth Guide.