Federal and Provincial Funding Supports Market-Ready Farming and Food Processing Technologies
Investment aims to improve competitiveness, resilience and sustainability across Ontario’s agri-food sector
The governments of Canada and Ontario are investing nearly $1 million through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP) to help Ontario farmers and food processors adopt innovative technologies and commercialize new agricultural solutions.
Announced by Ontario’s Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness on May 14, the funding is intended to support projects that transform research into practical, market-ready products and services for the agri-food industry. The initiative is part of a broader effort by both levels of government to strengthen Ontario’s food production system and improve the sector’s ability to compete globally.
The investment is being delivered through the Ontario Agri-food Research Initiative (OAFRI) Commercialization stream, which is led by Bioenterprise Canada Corporation. The program focuses on helping Ontario-based organizations bridge the gap between research and commercial deployment.
Federal Agriculture and Agri-Food Minister Heath MacDonald said innovation remains central to the long-term success of Canada’s agriculture sector.
“Through innovation and technology, Ontario’s agriculture and agri-food sectors are enhancing Canada’s food system and reaching global markets,” said the Honourable Heath MacDonald, federal Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food. “This support will help successful recipients turn innovative ideas into real-world solutions.”
Ontario Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness Minister Trevor Jones said the funding will support organizations working to improve productivity and strengthen Ontario’s role in global food production.
“This investment will help local organizations turn research into market-ready solutions that strengthen Ontario’s position as a global leader in food production,” said Trevor Jones, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness. “Our government is proud to support the innovators who are building a more competitive and resilient future for Ontario’s agri-food sector.”
Projects Focus on Biosecurity, Livestock Monitoring and Food Innovation
The funding will support several projects aimed at improving operational efficiency, food innovation and livestock management across Ontario’s agriculture sector.
Among the projects receiving support is the expansion of digital biosecurity technology currently used on pig farms into poultry operations. The technology is designed to help reduce the spread of disease among livestock and strengthen on-farm health management systems.
Another initiative will focus on market validation for a cattle monitoring system that estimates animal weight and health indicators. The system is expected to help beef producers improve productivity and make more informed management decisions.
Funding will also support the development of an advanced manufacturing system for dairy-free frozen desserts. The project is aimed at increasing access to affordable alternatives for consumers with allergies or those following plant-based diets.
In addition, support will be provided for the commercialization of a handheld agri-tech clipping device intended to improve efficiency in greenhouse and plant propagation facilities.
Bioenterprise Canada CEO Dave Smardon said the organization is focused on accelerating practical agricultural innovation across the province.
“Ontario’s agri-food sector depends on a strong pipeline of innovation to remain competitive, resilient, and ready for the future,” said Dave Smardon, CEO of Bioenterprise Canada. “Through the OAFRI Commercialization Stream, we’re helping promising organizations move practical, high-potential solutions closer to market by supporting the critical work of market validation and product development. We’re proud to work with the Ontario government to help accelerate these innovations and strengthen the province’s capacity to grow, process, and deliver food in smarter, more sustainable ways.”
Sustainable CAP Targets Long-Term Sector Growth
The Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership is a five-year, $3.5-billion investment framework running from 2023 to 2028. The agreement is jointly funded by federal, provincial and territorial governments to support competitiveness, innovation and resilience within Canada’s agriculture and agri-food industries.
The initiative includes $1 billion in federal-only programming and an additional $2.5 billion in cost-shared funding, with the federal government contributing 60 per cent and provinces and territories covering the remaining 40 per cent.
Ontario officials said the latest funding announcement reflects ongoing efforts to support a productive and resilient agri-food sector at a time when producers face rising operational costs, shifting consumer demands and increased global competition.
According to the province, Ontario’s agri-food sector employed one in nine Ontarians and generated approximately $52 billion in GDP in 2024, making it one of the province’s largest economic contributors.
Through Sustainable CAP, Bioenterprise Canada Corporation is receiving up to $6.5 million over five years to support research commercialization projects through both the Commercialization Stream and the Grow Ontario Accelerator Hub.
Officials said the funding is intended to ensure Ontario farmers and food processors have access to modern tools and technologies needed to maintain productivity, sustainability and long-term economic growth.