Key Takeaways
- Protein Industries Canada receives $15 million in new funding from the Government of Canada.
- The investment targets two streams: Genomics ($7M) and Artificial Intelligence ($8M).
- Funding aims to strengthen the entire agri-food value chain from plant breeding to food manufacturing.
- Projects will help build a more sustainable, resilient, and efficient domestic food system.
- Application intake for both streams is now open on a rolling basis via Protein Industries Canada’s website.
Protein Industries Canada to Advance Agricultural Innovation with New Government Funding
Protein Industries Canada has announced an additional $15 million in funding provided by the Government of Canada, targeting two critical innovation areas: Genomics and Artificial Intelligence (AI). The investment will be used to support research and commercialization projects that aim to enhance Canada’s agriculture sector and plant-based food supply chain.
The announcement was made under the administration of the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry, who emphasized the strategic importance of innovation in driving Canada’s food and economic security.
“Investing in genomics and artificial intelligence is investing in our future,” Joly stated. “This new funding will support innovative solutions that will contribute to a more resilient, productive and sustainable agri-food sector.”
Genomics Stream: Enhancing Broad-Acre Crop Varieties
Under the new five-year Genomics Stream, $7 million will be allocated to projects focusing on the commercialization of new and improved broad-acre crop varieties, with particular emphasis on pulse and cereal crops. These initiatives will use genomic tools in plant breeding to develop varieties that meet both industry needs and sustainability goals.
Projects will align stakeholders from across the value chain—from growers to processors—to expand the availability of Canadian-made ingredient options and improve the overall competitiveness of Canadian agriculture.
Artificial Intelligence Stream: Data-Driven Solutions Across the Supply Chain
The remaining $8 million will bolster Protein Industries Canada’s AI efforts under the federal Pan-Canadian Artificial Intelligence Strategy. Eligible projects may include:
- Seed genetic development tools
- Supply chain optimization
- On-farm data collection
- Food safety and quality assurance systems
- Ingredient and food formulation technologies
Robert Hunter, CEO of Protein Industries Canada, emphasized the cross-sectoral benefits of the funding. “This new investment will deliver value across the entire supply chain, starting with enhanced genetics that improve crop functionality and provide farmers with more resilient, high-performing options,” he said. “Together, these advancements will strengthen Canada’s position as a global supplier of nutritious, functional plant-based food, feed and ingredients.”
Application Process and Eligibility For Protein Industries Canada
Both the Genomics and AI streams are currently accepting applications on a rolling basis. Interested organizations must initiate a preliminary meeting with the Protein Industries Canada project team before submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI). If a project meets eligibility criteria, it will proceed to the next stage of evaluation.
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