AA
Controlled Environment Agriculture Technology Adoption Stream
Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada · This federal grant program invests in Canadian agricultural producers adopting, expanding, and modernizing controlled environment agriculture (CEA) infrastruct…
Overview
This federal grant program invests in Canadian agricultural producers adopting, expanding, and modernizing controlled environment agriculture (CEA) infrastructure and technologies. Contributions range from $100,000 to $10 million per project, with cost-sharing at 50-70% depending on project type and applicant demographics. The program aims to increase year-round fruit and vegetable production, diversify CEA crops, improve sustainability, and strengthen food security.
Eligibility
Agricultural producers engaged in controlled environment agriculture (CEA) such as greenhouse, vertical farm, or hydroponic operationsProjects that adopt, expand, or modernize CEA infrastructure and technologies including automation, robotics, lighting, and digital toolsUnderrepresented groups (Indigenous Peoples, youth aged 35 and under, women, visible minorities/racialized communities, persons with disabilities) receive enhanced cost-sharingProjects supporting emerging or novel CEA crops with import-replacement potential are prioritizedEligible projects
Adoption, expansion, or modernization of controlled environment agriculture infrastructureImplementation of automation, robotics, lighting systems, and digital growing technologiesProduction of emerging or novel CEA crops with commercial or import-replacement potentialLow-technology CEA solutions such as passive heating methods and season-extending protective structuresProjects advancing sustainability, productivity, and resource efficiency in food productionFinancing terms
Non-repayable contributions for projects generating benefits beyond private gain and advancing National Food Security Strategy objectivesRepayable contributions for projects primarily generating direct commercial benefits; funding type determined by expected benefits and risk levelBase cost-sharing: AAFC maximum 50%, applicant minimum 50%Enhanced cost-sharing: AAFC maximum 60% (applicant 40% minimum) for projects supporting emerging crops OR led by underrepresented groupsAdditional enhancement: AAFC maximum 70% (applicant 30% minimum) when both emerging crop and underrepresented group criteria are metApplicant cost-share must be in cash; in-kind contributions permitted only for Indigenous applicantsHow to apply
1Check eligibilityConfirm you meet every criterion listed above before you start.
2Prepare the project packageProject description, budget with quotes, team, and recent financial statements.
3Apply on agriculture.canada.caGovgrant members can draft the application with AI and export a formatted PDF.
4Respond to reviewer questionsMost programs come back with one round of questions within a few weeks of submission.
Additional information
Program runs through March 31, 2033 under Canada's National Food Security StrategyIndigenous applicants can access additional support through Indigenous Pathfinder ServicePriority given to projects eligible for non-repayable rather than repayable contributionsA related intake stream (Expanding Local Food Production in Rural and Northern Communities) is also openAt a glanceMaximum$10MMinimum$100KProviderAgriculture and Agri-Food CanadaDeadlineDec 23, 2026StatusOpenRegionCanadaOfficial sourceagriculture.canada.ca ↗
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