- The integration of proven clean technologies into operations; and/or
- The implementation of sustainability enhancement activities to assess possible modifications to current operations.
To qualify for the program, food and agri-food technology businesses must be generating a minimum of $200,000 in annual revenues and meet thresholds on project impact, potential environmental benefits, and economic outcomes for the sectors. Eligible organizations must be located in southern Ontario, ensure all project activities take place in southern Ontario, and collaborate with an eligible Sustainability Project Partner. Funding can be used for advisory services, operational assessments, equipment acquisition, employee labour, and other costs directly related to the project. Funding can be used for advisory services, operational assessments, equipment acquisition, employee labour, and other costs directly related to the project. A full list of program objectives and eligibility criteria can be found in the SGAP program guide available on the Bioenterprise Canada website.
“The launch of the second round of the Sustainable Growth and Adoption Program is exciting news for Canada’s agri-food entrepreneurs,” said the Honourable Evan Solomon, Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario. “With support from FedDev Ontario, our government is proud to invest in the innovative programs delivered by Bioenterprise, helping agri-food businesses in our region grow, innovate and build a strong and sustainable future.”
“Many of us have never experienced the political and economic uncertainties that we are currently facing. The recent tariffs are bringing new and significant challenges to Canada’s food and agriculture sectors. These challenges are causing businesses to aggressively seek ways to reduce costs, increase efficiencies and remain globally competitive under a tariff environment,” says Dave Smardon, CEO of Bioenterprise Canada. “As businesses strive to remain competitive, innovations and their adoption can play a major role in cost reduction and increased efficiency. More than ever, programs like the Sustainable Growth and Adoption Program can be highly impactful in driving long-term competitiveness of our agriculture and food sectors.”
SGAP is a three-year initiative (2024-2027) supported by an investment of $5.95 million from the Government of Canada through FedDev Ontario. Through this program, Bioenterprise is committed to supporting the fund’s strategy of prioritizing clean economic growth, business development, and technology adoption in the food and agri-food tech sectors. Round 1 of SGAP supported fifteen food and agri-food businesses in southern Ontario with nearly $1.4 million in matching contributions.
Application intake for Round 2 of SGAP opens on June 18, 2025 and closes on August 6 at 11:59 pm ET. Details about the program, including how to apply and a full program guide, will be available on Bioenterprise.ca. For project-specific questions, please email submissions@bioenterprise.ca.
Each participant of SGAP will receive customized business support, full access to Bioenterprise Canada’s extensive network of services and mentors, and targeted support for underrepresented groups, including youth, women, and Indigenous peoples. Recipients will also be awarded a one-year complimentary membership to Canada’s Food & Agri-Tech Engine, Bioenterprise Canada’s membership program, which provides members with commercialization support services and access to the Bioenterprise global network.
Source : Bioenterprises.ca