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AgriScience Program — Projects — for-profit organizations

Up to $10,000,000
Type
GRANTS AND FUNDING
Application Difficulty
MEDIUM
Application DeadlineMarch 31, 2028
Time To Complete4 weeksProgram Budgetno cap
See If You Qualify

Highlights

This program is designed for businesses like yours in the agriculture and agri-food sector. It offers non-repayable contributions and collaborative research support to help you accelerate innovation. You can receive up to $5 million for a single project or up to $10 million over the program's duration. This funding can be used for pre-commercial science activities and research, providing a significant boost to your business.

Why apply?

  • Non-repayable contributions mean you don't have to pay back the funding.
  • Collaborative support from AAFC scientists can enhance your research capabilities.
  • Cost-sharing options make it easier to manage expenses, with AAFC covering up to 50% of eligible costs, and up to 70% for specific environmental activities.

Being approved for this program can help you advance your research, reduce costs, and foster innovation. The application process is straightforward, and your business is already qualified. This is a unique opportunity to gain substantial financial support and expert collaboration to drive your business forward.

Financing Details

Type of Financing: Non-repayable Contribution and Collaborative Research Support

Repayment Terms:

  • No repayment required for non-repayable contributions.
  • Collaborative research support does not involve direct payment to the recipient but requires a Collaborative Research and Development Agreement (CRDA) with AAFC.

Eligible Expenses:

  • Research activities conducted by industry.
  • Collaborative research performed by AAFC scientists.
  • Costs related to pre-commercial science activities and research that benefit the agriculture and agri-food sector.

Ineligible Expenses:

  • Funds cannot be used for commercial production activities.
  • Marketing and promotional expenses are not covered.
  • Overhead costs not directly related to the research project.

Fees:

  • No application fees.
  • No administrative fees associated with the program.

Qualifications

  • Must be operating within the agriculture and agri-food sector.
  • Must be involved in pre-commercial science activities and research.
  • Must be able to enter into a contribution agreement with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) for non-repayable contributions.
  • Must be able to enter into a Collaborative Research and Development Agreement (CRDA) with AAFC for collaborative research assistance.
  • Must be able to share eligible costs with AAFC, with a minimum contribution of 50% from the business for most activities.
  • Indigenous applicants may be eligible for increased cost-share ratios.

  • Disqualifications:

    • Businesses not operating within the agriculture and agri-food sector.

Description

This program provides funding up to $5 million for individual projects and up to $10 million for multiple projects over the program duration (2023-2028). This money can be used for pre-commercial science activities and research that benefit the agriculture and agri-food sector.

You can receive non-repayable contributions or collaborative support from Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) scientists. Non-repayable contributions mean you do not have to pay back the funds, but you must report your expenses for reimbursement. Collaborative support involves AAFC scientists conducting research on your behalf.

The funding is cost-shared. Typically, AAFC covers up to 50% of eligible costs, and you cover the remaining 50%. For specific activities focusing on greenhouse gas reduction and carbon sequestration, AAFC may cover up to 70%, leaving you to cover 30%.

This program is a great opportunity to advance your business through innovation and research, with significant financial support and expert collaboration.

Program Steps

  1. Review Program Details: Familiarize yourself with the objectives and components of the program. Understand the funding options available and the cost-sharing requirements.

  2. Gather Necessary Documentation: Prepare the following documents to support your application:

    • Detailed project proposal
    • Budget and financial plan
    • Business registration documents
    • Previous financial statements
    • Proof of industry partnerships (if applicable)
    • Any additional documents specified by the program guidelines
  3. Develop a Project Plan: Outline the scope, goals, and expected outcomes of your project. Include timelines, milestones, and key performance indicators.

  4. Contact AAFC for Guidance: Reach out to Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) for any clarifications or additional information needed. Utilize their resources to ensure your application is complete and accurate.

  5. Complete the Application Form: Fill out the application form provided by the program. Ensure all sections are thoroughly completed and all required information is included.

  6. Submit the Application: Send your completed application along with all supporting documents to the designated submission portal or address provided by the program.

  7. Follow Up: After submission, monitor the status of your application. Be prepared to provide additional information or clarification if requested by the program administrators.

  8. Enter into Agreements: If your application is successful, you will need to enter into a Contribution Agreement or a Collaborative Research and Development Agreement (CRDA) with AAFC, outlining the terms, milestones, and reporting requirements.

  9. Implement the Project: Begin your project as outlined in your proposal. Ensure compliance with all reporting and documentation requirements as stipulated in the agreement.

  10. Report Progress: Regularly report on project progress, financial expenditures, and outcomes to AAFC as required by the agreement. Ensure timely submission of all reports to maintain funding and support.

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