Bioenterprise will be accepting applications for the first round of the FoodShift Program; a green initiative that will help southern Ontario food and beverage processors adopt net-zero technologies.
Guelph, Ontario – July 28th, 2022 —Bioenterprise Canada is launching an open call for applications for its FoodShift Program that will target the implementation of clean technologies into food and beverage processing organizations. This program is funded by the Government of Canada through the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario).
The primary objectives of the FoodShift program are to:
- De-risk the adoption and integration of clean, or net-zero, technologies in Ontario;
- Support the transition to a green economy and reduce the sector’s carbon footprint;
- Enhance competitiveness of the food and beverage processing and clean technology sectors; and
- Create and maintain jobs.
The FoodShift Program offers eligible organizations, headquartered in Ontario with up to $50,000 in non-repayable, project-based, matching funding as well as coaching and mentorship support services.
Projects must be led by Ontario-based food and beverage processors and conducted in collaboration with an eligible clean technology provider. This funding could be used to cover advisory, acquisition, and commissioning costs related to the new clean technology as well as to support regulatory compliance and job creation. Adopted technologies must help food and beverage processors embrace automation in their facilities, reduce waste and energy consumption, significantly reduce their carbon footprint, and transition towards a net-zero future. Eligible food and beverage processors must be generating a minimum of $1 million in annual revenues and must meet thresholds on technological adoption impact, potential environmental benefits for the sector, and economic benefits for the province. A full list of program objectives and eligibility criteria can be found in the FoodShift program guide available at Bioenterprise.ca.
“The Government of Canada investment in Bioenterprise will provide food processors and agri-businesses with the financial support and resources to accelerate their adoption of net-zero technologies,” said the Honourable Helena Jaczek, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario. “Our Government is committed to ensuring businesses have the opportunity to increase their competitiveness and contribute to a resilient, clean economy while creating good jobs for Canadians.”
“The investment in Bioenterprise supports Canada’s food ecosystem through innovation and will foster economic growth that will strengthen our local economy,” said Lloyd Longfield, Member of Parliament for Guelph. “The investment will support 60 companies and 200 jobs right here in Guelph and across southern Ontario.”
“Canadian food and agricultural technologies are leading the world in several areas, including innovation and product quality, and we would like to continue that trend with sustainability,” says Dave Smardon, CEO of Bioenterprise Canada. “Working with the Government of Canada through FedDev Ontario, we will support economic growth while also moving our food processing sector towards Canada’s net-zero goals, a win-win for Ontario businesses and global sustainability.”
Each participant in the FoodShift 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. Successful recipients of the FoodShift Program will also be awarded a one-year complimentary membership to Canada’s Food & Agri-Tech Engine, Bioenterprise’s membership program which provides members with commercialization support services and access to Bioenterprise’s global network.
Applications will be accepted starting today. Visit the webpage for program details, a Program Guide, and information on how to apply. Questions can be directed to submissions@bioenterprise.ca.
Food and beverage processors and clean technology providers interested in participating in the program but who do not yet have a collaborator can fill out an Expression of Interest (EOI) form and Bioenterprise will assist in matchmaking organizations to create an eligible project.
Interested in learning more? Sign up for our virtual information session taking place on August 10, 2022, at 10 am.
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.
About FedDev Ontario
For 13 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.
Media Contacts
Monica Granados
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario
Monica.Granados@feddevontario.gc.ca
Media Relations
FedDev Ontario
feddevontariomediarelations-relationsmedias@feddevontario.gc.ca
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