The federal government is opening a call for proposals aimed at strengthening Canada’s food supply chains and domestic industrial capacity.
Industry Minister Mélanie Joly announced the launch of the Strategic Response Fund call for proposals on June 22.
The fund will make up to $350 million available for projects connected to Canada’s National Food Security Strategy.
The government says eligible projects can receive between $10 million and $50 million each.
Funding aimed at production and processing
The Strategic Response Fund is intended to support companies and organizations in food and beverage manufacturing, packaging, industrial systems and critical input production.
The federal government says the money will help businesses expand capacity, modernize operations and build more resilient infrastructure.
The fund is also aimed at supporting new and expanded domestic food production and processing capacity, while improving storage, advanced packaging and supply chain technology.
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Strategy announced earlier this month
The funding call is part of the National Food Security Strategy, which was announced by the prime minister on June 11.
The strategy is focused on strengthening domestic food production and improving access to affordable, nutritious food.
Joly said a strong Canadian food sector is important for competition, innovation and long-term economic growth.
“Through this Strategic Response Fund call for proposals, we will invest in Canadian businesses and organizations to strengthen supply chains, modernize infrastructure and deliver real results for Canadians,” Joly said in a release.
Agriculture and Agri-Food Minister Heath MacDonald said the fund will support producers and manufacturers working to put food on Canadian tables.
First intake open until August
The first intake window for proposals is open until Aug. 4.
The federal government says a second intake window is expected to open in the fall.
The call is open to large-scale projects that show clear economic benefits for Canada, including job creation, innovation and stronger domestic supply chains.