The Grains Innovation Fund plays a crucial role in supporting Ontario’s grain sector, addressing the growing need for market diversification and sustainability. Ontario grain farmers produce a significant portion of the province’s agricultural output, with over 6 million acres of farmland and a production value exceeding $4.1 billion. However, global market shifts, climate concerns, and consumer demands for sustainability have created new challenges. This funding initiative is designed to encourage innovation by helping companies develop new uses for grains and grain by-products, expand markets, and create value-added products.
The program not only boosts local economic output but also enhances the competitiveness of Ontario’s grain products on a global scale. By funding projects that promote novel applications of grain crops—whether for food, industrial uses, or exports—this fund is driving industry growth while aligning with modern consumer trends. Previous projects, such as creating new export opportunities for Ontario Corn Fed Beef and innovative products like compostable wheat-based pet litter, highlight the need for continuous development and adaptation in this sector. This ensures that Ontario grains remain a key player both domestically and internationally.
Funding Snapshot: Grains Innovation Fund
Funding Amount
The program offers financial assistance to cover up to 60% of eligible project costs, with a maximum contribution of $50,000.
Eligible Applicants
To qualify for the Grain Innovation Fund, applicants must utilize at least 40 metric tonnes per year of the following Ontario crops:
- Barley
- Corn
- Oats
- Soybeans
- Wheat
- Crop residues (from the above grains)
Eligible projects must meet one of the following criteria:
- Opening New Markets: Projects that open new market opportunities for Ontario grains or their residues.
- Expanding Demand: Initiatives that increase the demand for Ontario grains or grain residues.
- Promoting Ontario Grains: Efforts that promote Ontario grains or residues as the top choice in various sectors
- Developing Value-Added Products: Support for projects that create novel, value-added products from Ontario grains or residues.
- Increasing Premium Value: Projects that help increase the premium value of Ontario grains or residues.
The program seeks projects in the following innovative areas:
- Food Processing: Projects that utilize large volumes of grains and oilseeds in new food processing methods.
- Bio-Economy Solutions: Next-generation bio-economy applications, such as renewable diesel, sustainable aviation fuel, and other high-value bio-based materials (e.g., compostable plastics).
- Animal Feed: Transformative projects for the feed industry that maximize the use of Ontario grains in animal diets.
- Value-Added Processing: Support for new, scalable processing opportunities within Ontario, enhancing the value of local grains.
- Market Reach: Projects that promote Ontario grain- and oilseed-based products in a way that increases customer awareness and demand.
Eligible Costs
- Marketing Activities: Costs related to promoting Ontario grain or grain-residue-based products.
- Promotional Materials: Development and production of promotional material.
- Advertising: Costs associated with advertising campaigns that promote Ontario grain products.
- Consultant Fees: Fees for consultants engaged in marketing and advertising strategies.
- Product Development: Investments in developing new grain-based products.
- Capital Expenditures: Purchase of new equipment used solely for project purposes (note: this does not cover land, buildings, or vehicles).
Deadline
The deadline to apply for the Grains Innovation Fund is November 1st, 2024. Get in touch with us today to create a winning application.
Apply for More Agri-Funding Programs
The Ontario government supports and sustains agricultural businesses within the province. There are a variety of agri-funding programs in Ontario designed to help support your team. Explore our Agri-Business Funding Directory to learn about available funding programs.
When it comes to funding, it is crucial to know when to apply and time your application writing process effectively. Download our free guide on When to Apply for Funding to gain insight into aligning your projects with program requirements, exploring available funding options, and making sure you never miss funding deadline.