Status
Available
31 March, 2028
Funding
Up to $5M per project
Up to 50% AAFC cost-share
Overview
Innovation & R&D, Talent Acquisition
Federal
AgriInnovate Program – AAFC Under S-CAP
The AgriInnovate program targets for-profit Canadian organizations ready to bring innovations to market, from advanced automation and robotics to value-added agri-products expanding into export markets. Applications are assessed on a priority-basis rather than first-come, first-served, favouring projects with broad sectoral impact and clear growth potential.
Eligible Activities
Commercialization
Bringing an innovative agricultural technology or process to market, including scaling production, establishing supply chains, and building commercial capacity.
Demonstration
Showcasing agri-technologies or processes where all necessary testing and piloting has been completed and the innovation is ready for commercialization. Demonstration must involve:
- Production of samples for market validation, and/or
- Creation of a reference or showcase site for pre-commercial demonstration
Adoption
Implementing commercially ready innovative technologies or processes into the applicant’s existing agri-food operations. The technology or process must be new to the Canadian agri-sector and not yet widely adopted internationally.
Eligible Applicants
- For-profit organizations incorporated in Canada
- Applicant’s portion of the cost-share must becash contributions in-kind contributions are not eligible
- Organizations majority-owned or led by under-represented groups are eligible for an additional 10% AAFC cost-share
Project Requirements
Projects must meet AAFC’s definition of “innovation” and demonstrate a clear path to commercial impact in the agri-food sector.
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- Innovation is defined as the creation of a technology or process expected to produce measurable improvements over existing options
- For adoption projects, the technology or process must be new to the Canadian agri-sector and not yet widely adopted in other countries
- Adoption technologies must undergo significant adaptation or customization to the applicant’s operations
- Projects and budgets can span over more than one fiscal year
- All projects must be completed by March 31, 2028
- Total government funding (from all sources) cannot exceed 75% of total eligible project costs
Why Work With Ayming?
Agri-Food Sector Expertise
Our consultants understand the unique commercialization and innovation challenges facing Canadian agri-food businesses, and know how to frame your project to align with AAFC's priority areas.
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End-to-End Application Management
From eligibility assessment and budget structuring to technical writing and submission, we manage the entire process so you can focus on your project.
No Upfront Fees
Our success-based model means you only pay when you receive funding. Zero financial risk to explore your eligibility and start your application.
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Proven Track Record
We have helped hundreds of Canadian companies and organizations successfully access federal and provincial grants, including AAFC programs under S-CAP and its predecessors.
Tight Deadline Support
Our team can mobilize quickly to assess your project and prepare a compelling, compliant submission respecting every deadline.
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Sustainability & ESG Alignment
We help articulate your project's sustainability and value-chain impact, key differentiators in AAFC's priority-based evaluation process.
Our Government Funding Experts
