Deadline Date: August 04, 2026
The Strategic Response Fund is inviting applications to support projects that strengthen Canada’s food system by investing in food processing capacity, modernization, and critical supply chain infrastructure.
The focus areas, of the program include building new domestic food production capacity, modernizing existing food processing operations, strengthening supporting infrastructure for manufacturing and packaging, improving supply chain systems, enhancing productivity and competitiveness, adopting advanced technologies such as automation and AI, reducing import dependency, and supporting innovation in food production, processing, and distribution systems within Canada.
The program targets projects that contribute to strengthening Canada’s food production and processing capacity, improving manufacturing and supply chain efficiency, and enhancing food system resilience. It prioritizes initiatives that expand or build new facilities, upgrade existing operations, and introduce technological improvements that increase output and operational effectiveness.
Projects may focus on building new domestic capacity such as food manufacturing facilities, addressing processing gaps, or reducing reliance on imports for key food-related products. They may also involve modernization efforts including facility upgrades, production expansion, and the adoption of advanced manufacturing systems, automation, robotics, artificial intelligence, and other productivity-enhancing technologies.
Additional support is directed toward strengthening supporting infrastructure such as packaging production, industrial manufacturing systems, and essential inputs that ensure efficient movement of food from producers to consumers. Projects that improve domestic supply chain resilience, enhance competitiveness, and support Canadian manufacturing ecosystems are also encouraged.
The program places emphasis on alignment with national food system objectives, readiness for implementation, direct economic and production impact, innovation-driven improvements, and strengthening domestic supply chains through the use of locally produced materials and equipment.
For more information, visit Government of Canada.
