Bioenterprise is inviting additional applications for FoodShift Program funding (up to $50K), targeting food and beverage processing organizations in southern Ontario that are prepared to lead projects focused on clean technology adoption, food waste reduction or process optimization.
Guelph, Ontario – August 28, 2023, —With Government of Canada support through the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario), Bioenterprise Canada is relaunching its FoodShift program. FoodShift is a $2.4-million green initiative to help southern Ontario food and beverage processing organizations future-proof their businesses by adopting and integrating clean technologies and/or process optimization projects.
The primary objectives of the program remain:
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- De-risk the adoption and integration of clean, or net-zero, technologies in Ontario;
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- Support the transition to a green economy and reduce the sector’s carbon footprint;
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- Enhance competitiveness of the food and beverage processing and clean technology sectors; and
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- Create and maintain jobs.
The FoodShift program continues to hold significant potential to support the transition towards an environmentally friendly food and beverage processing industry in Ontario. With this investment, food and beverage processors will receive support to offset the cost of integrating new clean technologies and greener processes into their operations. As the food and beverage processing is the largest sector in Canada and one of the largest in North America, encouraging these developments within the food and beverage ecosystem is critical for the environment and Canadian economy.
Eligibility and Funding Details
Non-repayable, project-based, matching funds up to $50,000 are available for successful FoodShift program applicants. To be eligible, applicants must be located in southern Ontario, operate in the food and beverage processing industry and generate a minimum of $200,000 in annual revenues. The funding can be used to cover advisory, acquisition and commissioning costs related to the eligible project as well as support regulatory compliance and job creation.
Eligible projects include the adoption and integration of a proven clean technology and/or engaging with a clean technology service provider to conduct facility assessments focused on food waste reduction, process optimization and enhanced sustainability. Projects must be completed before or by March 31, 2024, and meet the thresholds for technological adoption impact, environmental benefits for the sector and economic benefits for the province. For a comprehensive list of eligibility criteria, please visit the program webpage or download the program guide.
Quotes
“Bioenterprise continues to provide food processors and agri-businesses in southern Ontario with the financial support and resources they need to meet their net-zero goals, “said the Honourable Filomena Tassi, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario. “The Government of Canada is committed to supporting projects to help achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.”
“Bioenterprise is going strong in their commitment to support Canada’s food ecosystem,” said Lloyd Longfield, Member of Parliament for Guelph. “Through the FoodShift program, food processors and agri-businesses here in Guelph and across southern Ontario are receiving the support and tools they need to succeed and fuel the local economy while creating a greener future for Canadians.”
“FedDev Ontario has long been both a leader in recognizing agriculture’s potential to demonstrate Canadian leadership. As priorities for economic development are now paired equally with sustainability and social considerations, they continue to support the progressive work of innovative businesses,” says Dave Smardon, CEO of Bioenterprise Canada. “Working with FedDev Ontario, we will support continued transformation in the food and beverage processors towards a sustainable and future-ready Canada.”
Application Details
Starting September 5, 2023, there will be an open intake for applications that will run until October 6, 2023, at 11:59 p.m. EDT. After the initial eligibility screening, projects will be chosen for funding based on a comprehensive review by our expert committee.
For more program specifics, a Program Guide, and information on how to apply, please visit the program webpage. Questions can be directed to submissions@bioenterprise.ca – we’re here to provide guidance and support!
Each participant in the FoodShift program will have full access to business support services, 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.
Media Contacts
Edward Hutchinson
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario
edward.hutchinson@feddevontario.gc.ca
Liza Knill
Program Coordinator
Bioenterprise Canada
liza.knill@bioenterprise.ca
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 14 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.
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