Description

The AgriScience Program – Projects Component aims to accelerate innovation in Canada’s agriculture and agri-food sector by providing funding and support for pre-commercial science activities and research (knowledge creation to near-market) that benefit the sector and Canadians.

Applicants may apply via three funding options:

1. Non-repayable contribution funding (Vote 10) for industry-led research.
2. Collaborative research & development support (Vote 1) for research performed by AAFC scientists on behalf of the applicant.
3. A combination of both.

Funding Information

• Maximum funding for any single project: CAD $5 million over the duration of the program (2023-2028) under the Projects Component.
• Maximum total funding available to a recipient under this component: CAD $10 million (over the same duration)
• Cost-sharing: Usually AAFC funds up to 50% of eligible costs; applicants contribute minimum 50%. For eligible not-for-profit organisations and specific activities (e.g., greenhouse gas reduction/ carbon sequestration) the AAFC share can be up to 70%.

Submission Details

• Intake period: Applications accepted until funding is fully committed or until otherwise announced; program ends March 31, 2028.

• How to apply: Applicants follow the application guide and instructions provided by AAFC

Eligibility

• Eligible Applicant types: For-profit organizations (including companies), not-for-profit organizations (including associations, co-ops, sector councils), Indigenous individuals and Indigenous organizations.
• Collaboration encouraged between industry, academia, government research scientists (AAFC scientists) under the collaborative option.
• Eligible countries: This is a Canadian domestic program, applicants must be Canadian entities (or Indigenous groups in Canada).

Submission Conditions

• Applicants must meet the eligibility criteria and align their project with the program’s priority areas.
• Projects must be pre-commercial research (not purely basic or post-market commercialization).
• Cost-sharing requirements apply (minimum applicant contribution).
• Applicants must follow the reporting, IP and agreement obligations as per the contribution agreement or CRDA.