AgriScience Program — Projects — Not-for-profit
Highlights
The AgriScience Program is designed specifically for businesses like yours in the agriculture and agri-food sector. This program offers non-repayable contributions and collaborative research support to help you accelerate innovation and conduct pre-commercial science activities. With funding available up to $5 million per project and a total of $10 million over the program's duration, you have substantial financial backing to advance your research and development efforts.
Why should you apply? This program provides a unique opportunity to collaborate with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) scientists, ensuring you have access to top-tier research expertise. The funding is flexible, allowing you to choose between direct financial contributions or collaborative research support, or both. This flexibility can be more advantageous than traditional financing options, as it not only provides financial aid but also enhances your project's credibility and potential for success.
What's in it for you? By being approved for this program, you gain access to significant funding and expert support, which can help you achieve your innovation goals faster and more efficiently. The cost-sharing model, with AAFC covering up to 50% of eligible costs, makes it easier for you to manage expenses. For specific activities focusing on greenhouse gas reduction, the AAFC contribution can go up to 70%. The application process is straightforward, and as a qualified business, you have a strong chance of approval.
Financing Details
Type of Financing: Non-repayable Contribution Funding and Collaborative Research Assistance
Repayment Terms and Interest Rates:
- Non-repayable contribution funding does not require repayment.
- Collaborative research assistance involves a Collaborative Research and Development Agreement (CRDA) with AAFC, outlining milestones, licensing options, and payment schedules. There is no direct financial repayment to AAFC.
Eligible Expenses:
Funds can be used for:
- Pre-commercial science activities
- Research that benefits the agriculture and agri-food sector
- Projects addressing priority national themes and horizontal issues
Ineligible Expenses:
Funds cannot be used for:
- Commercial activities
- Expenses not directly related to the approved research project
Fees:
- No specific fees are associated with the non-repayable contribution funding.
- Collaborative research assistance may involve costs outlined in the CRDA for the applicant's share of funding.
Qualifications
- Must be involved in the agriculture and agri-food sector.
- Must be conducting pre-commercial science activities and research.
- Must be able to enter into a contribution agreement with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC).
- Must be willing to share eligible project costs with AAFC.
- Must be able to report on expenses incurred for reimbursement purposes.
- Must be able to enter into a Collaborative Research and Development Agreement (CRDA) with AAFC if seeking collaborative research assistance.
Indigenous applicants may be eligible for increased cost-share ratios.
Disqualifications:
- None explicitly mentioned in the provided context.
Description
This program offers your business a chance to receive up to $5 million in funding for a single project over the next five years. If you have multiple projects, you can get up to $10 million in total funding. This money can be used for pre-commercial science activities and research that benefit the agriculture and agri-food sector.
There are two types of support available: non-repayable contributions and collaborative research assistance. Non-repayable contributions mean you don't have to pay the money back. Collaborative research assistance involves working with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) scientists who will conduct research on your behalf.
The funding is shared between you and AAFC. Typically, AAFC covers up to 50% of eligible costs, while you cover the remaining 50%. For specific activities focusing on greenhouse gas reduction and carbon sequestration, AAFC can cover up to 70%, leaving you to cover 30%.
This program is a great opportunity to boost your business's innovation and research capabilities without the financial burden of repaying the funds.
Program Steps
Gather Required Documentation: Prepare the necessary documents for your application. You will need:
- Business plan
- Financial statements
- Project proposal
- Detailed budget
- Proof of business registration
- Any previous research or project reports
Choose Funding Option: Decide whether you will apply for:
- Non-repayable contribution funding (Vote 10)
- Collaborative research and development support (Vote 1)
- Both (Vote 10 and Vote 1)
Complete the Application Form: Fill out the application form available on the Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) website. Ensure all sections are completed accurately.
Submit Your Application: Submit the completed application form along with all required documentation through the AAFC online portal or by mail to the specified address.
Review and Confirmation: Wait for AAFC to review your application. They may contact you for additional information or clarification.
Enter into Agreement: If your application is approved, you will need to enter into a Contribution Agreement (for Vote 10) or a Collaborative Research and Development Agreement (CRDA) (for Vote 1) with AAFC. This agreement will outline the terms, milestones, and reporting requirements.
Begin Project Activities: Once the agreement is in place, you can start your project activities as outlined in your proposal.
Report Progress: Regularly report on your project's progress and expenses as required by the agreement. This ensures compliance and helps with reimbursement or collaborative support.
Complete the Project: Upon project completion, submit a final report detailing the outcomes, achievements, and financial summary.
Follow-Up: Maintain communication with AAFC for any post-project evaluations or additional support opportunities.
