Bioenterprise relaunches FoodShift Program with open call for applications

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:

• 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 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.

“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 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.”

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.

Each participant in the FoodShift program will have full access to business support services, Bioenterprise’s 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.