Agri-Food and Bioindustrial Innovation Program
The world’s population is expected to reach nearly 10 billion people by 2050, adding pressure on our limited natural resources and increasing demand for food and sustainable materials. As a result, the agriculture and forestry sectors must adapt to shifting consumer demands, changing regulatory requirements and environmental concerns while being vulnerable to the effects of climate change, affecting both productivity and sustainability.
Alberta has a significant opportunity to address these global challenges by harnessing the power of technology. The Agri-Food and Bioindustrial Innovation Program (ABIP) supports the development and advancement of technologies that increase productivity, enhance competitiveness, boost the value of agriculture and forestry commodities, and lower greenhouse gas emissions. The program aims to build on the existing strengths of Alberta’s agri-food and forestry sectors and to develop new opportunities and markets. It is jointly managed by the Agri-Food Innovation and Bioindustrial Materials Technology Portfolios within Alberta Innovates.
How the program works
The objectives of the Agri-Food and Bioindustrial Innovation Program are to:
- Sustain, grow and optimize productivity and reduce the cost of production of Alberta’s agri-food and bioindustrial industries.
- Add value to enhanced and new commodities in the agri-food and bioindustrial sectors.
- Increase environmental sustainability and social benefits for Albertans.
Eligible applicants
The Program is open to small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), industry organizations, research and development organizations, post-secondary institutions and government research laboratories. Applicants are not required to be based in Alberta but must demonstrate a clear value proposition for Alberta. Projects that will be researched, piloted, demonstrated and/or implemented in Alberta with long-term Alberta impact will be prioritized.
Funding
The Program provides up to $500,000 per project and up to 75% of total project costs, with the remaining funding (cash or in-kind) coming from the applicant, project partners or other funding agencies. Co-funding with other funding agencies is highly encouraged, and the program does not limit the amount of stacking towards other contributions. However, reliance on uncommitted funding could delay or hinder contracting with Alberta Innovates.
Collaborators
Collaboration is highly encouraged. Projects that demonstrate formal partnerships will receive additional, favourable consideration. Applicants not based in the province are encouraged to have Alberta-based partners. Applicants are also encouraged to collaborate with Alberta’s post-secondary and research institutions where appropriate. It is desirable for projects to attract and train highly qualified personnel who can increase Alberta’s innovation capacity.
Application process
Applications are accepted on a continuous basis and will be assessed in two phases: Intake and Full Proposal. To start the application process, please contact the program area for an initial assessment of project scope and alignment with program priorities. The timeline for each phase is project-specific and dependent on the timely submission of intake and full proposal forms.
Please see the Agri-Food and Bioindustrial Innovation Program Guide for full program and application details.
Additional information
Resources
- Agri-Food and Bioindustrial Innovation Program Guide
- Investment Agreement Template
- Schedule C – Eligible and Ineligible Expenses
- Alberta Innovates Grants Management System
Webinar
View the application webinar below and download the presentation slides for more information and answers to frequently asked questions.