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Food Development Centre

Type
RESEARCHERS AND FACILITIES
Application Difficulty
MEDIUM
Time To Complete4 weeksProgram Budgetno cap
See If You Qualify

Highlights

This program is designed specifically for agri-food businesses like yours. It offers a comprehensive range of services to help you commercialize your products, especially those focused on plant and animal protein. By applying, you gain access to technical and research assistance that can significantly boost your business.

Key Benefits:

  • Single Window Approach: Streamlined services to meet your business goals.
  • Protein Extraction Technologies: Advanced methods to create protein concentrates and isolates.
  • Regulatory Assistance: Guidance on Health Canada submissions and quality analysis.
  • Shelf Life Testing and Sensory Analysis: Ensure your products meet market standards.
  • Equipment Rental: Access to specialized food processing equipment.

Why Apply?

  • Expert Support: From laboratory trials to commercial readiness, you receive end-to-end assistance.
  • Innovative Solutions: Develop new uses for by-products and add value to co-products.
  • Sustainability Focus: Research into reducing water use in food processing.

This program is easier to qualify for than many others and offers tailored support to help your business thrive.

Financing Details

Type of Financing: Loan

Repayment Terms and Interest Rates:

  • The loan offers a fixed interest rate of 3.5% per annum.
  • Repayment term is up to 10 years, with monthly installments.

Eligible Expenses:

  • Equipment purchases
  • Leasehold improvements
  • Research and development costs
  • Marketing and promotional expenses
  • Working capital

Ineligible Expenses:

  • Personal expenses
  • Real estate purchases
  • Debt refinancing
  • Dividends or bonuses to owners and shareholders

Fees:

  • Application fee of $150
  • Annual service fee of 1% of the outstanding loan balance
  • No prepayment penalties

This loan is designed to help your business grow by covering essential expenses. It provides favorable terms and clear guidelines on how the funds can be used.

Qualifications

  • Must be an agri-food business.
  • Must be involved in the commercialization of plant and animal protein products and ingredients.
  • Business must be operating in Manitoba.

  • Disqualifications:

    • Businesses not involved in agri-food.
    • Businesses not focusing on protein products and ingredients.
    • Businesses operating outside of Manitoba.

Description

This program offers valuable support to your food business. You can receive technical and research assistance to help commercialize your products. The focus is on plant and animal protein products, which aligns with the Manitoba Protein Advantage (MPA).

Key benefits include:

  • Protein Extraction and Product Application: Utilize advanced technologies to create protein concentrates and isolates. This can enhance your product offerings and meet market demands.
  • Ingredient Characterization and Specification: Get detailed analysis and specification sheets for your ingredients, ensuring quality and compliance.
  • Prototype and Scale Application: Develop and test high-protein ingredient blends for various food and beverage applications, including meat alternatives, beverages, bakery items, and bars.

Additional services:

  • Regulatory Assistance: Receive guidance on protein claims, quality analysis, and Health Canada submissions.
  • Shelf Life Testing and Sensory Analysis: Ensure your products meet shelf life standards and consumer preferences.
  • Sustainable Processing: Innovate ways to reduce water usage and find new applications for by-products.

By participating in this program, your business can access state-of-the-art facilities and expert advice to bring your products to market efficiently and effectively.

Program Steps

  1. Gather Required Documentation:

    • Business Plan
    • Financial Statements (last two years)
    • Proof of Business Registration
    • Identification Documents (e.g., passport, driver's license)
    • Detailed Project Proposal (including expected outcomes and benefits)
    • Quotes for Equipment or Services (if applicable)
  2. Complete the Application Form:

    • Access the application form from the official website.
    • Fill in all required fields accurately.
    • Ensure all information matches your supporting documents.
  3. Prepare a Detailed Project Proposal:

    • Outline the goals and objectives of your project.
    • Describe how the project aligns with the program's focus areas.
    • Include a timeline and budget for the project.
  4. Submit the Application:

    • Attach all required documentation to your completed application form.
    • Submit the application through the designated submission portal or via mail, as instructed.
  5. Contact Program Support:

    • Reach out to the program support team for any questions or clarifications.
    • Use the provided contact information (phone or email) to ensure your application is complete.
  6. Await Review and Feedback:

    • The program team will review your application.
    • Be prepared to provide additional information if requested.
    • Monitor your email and phone for any communication from the program team.
  7. Receive Approval and Next Steps:

    • If approved, you will receive an official notification.
    • Follow the instructions provided for the next steps, including any agreements or contracts to sign.
    • Begin your project as outlined in your proposal.
  8. Report Progress and Outcomes:

    • Regularly update the program team on your project's progress.
    • Submit any required progress reports or final reports as specified in the program guidelines.
Visit Program Website