Guelph, Ontario – June 1, 2022 — Bioenterprise Canada is launching the fourth round of an open call for applications for its southern Ontario SmartGrowth Program that will target innovative solutions in agri-tech, agri-food, agri-products, cleantech and related sectors. This fourth round will be the last open call for the program. The program is funded in part by the Government of Canada through the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario) with a nearly $6.3 million investment.
The SmartGrowth Program offers eligible enterprises, headquartered in southern Ontario with:
- Up to $100,000 in project-based, matching funding to supportscale-up and expansion projects
- Coaching and mentorship support services
Projects should focus on agri-tech and related sectors, with eligible activities including, but not limited to, job creation and talent acquisition, product demonstration, and adoption of unique technologies to improve productivity and sustainability. A full list of program objectives and eligibility criteria can be found in the SmartGrowth Program Guide available at Bioenterprise.ca.
“The work Bioenterprise is doing to strengthen the agriculture ecosystem across southern Ontario is essential for Canadians and for our farmers,” said the Honourable Helena Jaczek, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario. “The Government of Canada is proud to support the creation of an agri-food hub that fosters the growth of homegrown companies and Canadian food security. This program will help grow Canada’s economy and create good, secure jobs for Canadians.”
Eligible companies must meet thresholds on annual revenues, expansion potential, technological adoption impact, and potential economic benefits. Each participant in the SmartGrowth Program will receive customized business support services, full access to Bioenterprise’s substantial network of services and mentors, and targeted support for underrepresented groups including youth, women, and Indigenous peoples.
“The SmartGrowth program has become the flagship model for our national expansion,” says Dave Smardon, CEO of Bioenterprise Canada. “With this final call we intend to solidify the impact of the program and continue to support and fund the most innovative new technologies in southern Ontario’s agricultural sector. The program’s value has already proven itself, and we intend to make a big splash with this final call. Sustainability and economic growth remain top priorities for Bioenterprise Canada, and the Engine.”
“In this final round of Bioenterprise’s SmartGrowth program, more businesses in Guelph and across southern Ontario will have the opportunity to receive the vital support they need to grow,” said Lloyd Longfield, Member of Parliament for Guelph. “With these resources, businesses will create good jobs and fuel our economy. Bioenterprise continues to work to support digital agriculture and in doing so, are supporting a strong and resilient economy in southern Ontario.”
Successful recipients of the SmartGrowth Program will also be awarded a one-year, complimentary membership to Canada’s Food & Agri-Tech Engine, Bioenterprise’s membership program that provides members with commercialization support services and access to Bioenterprise’s global network.
Applications will be accepted starting today. Check out our SmartGrowth Program webpage for program details, a program guide, and information on how to apply. Questions can be directed to submissions@bioenterprise.ca.
Media Contacts
Alexandra Burdett, Director of Programs, Bioenterprise Canada, alexandra.burdett@bioenterprise.ca
Monica Granados
Press Secretary, Office of the Hon. Helena Jaczek Minister Responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario
monica.granados@feddevontario.gc.ca
About FedDev Ontario
For more than 12 years, the Government of Canada, through FedDev Ontario, has worked to advance and diversify the southern Ontario economy through funding opportunities and business services that support innovation, growth and job creation in Canada’s most populous region. The Agency has delivered impressive results, which can be seen in southern Ontario businesses that are creating innovative technologies, improving productivity, growing revenues, creating jobs, and in the economic advancement of communities across the region. Learn more about the impacts the Agency is having in southern Ontario by exploring our pivotal projects, our Southern Ontario Spotlight, and FedDev Ontario’s Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.
About Bioenterprise Canada
Bioenterprise is Canada’s Food and Agri-Tech Engine, bringing more than 15 years of industry experience and a national and international network of research institutions, academia, mentors, experts, government, and industry players nationwide to help small and medium-sized businesses in the sector to connect, innovate, and grow. Through its experienced service partner network, Bioenterprise offers a wide range of expertise and support to its clients. In partnership with other industries, Bioenterprise opens doors to new technologies and platforms to help food and agri-tech businesses innovate and grow.
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