Webinar – From Farm to Factory: Grant Opportunities in Food Processing

Unlock government funding to modernize your facility, adopt automation, and support sustainable growth in the food processing sector.

In today’s food processing environment, rising input costs, labor shortages, sustainability pressures, and evolving regulatory requirements are making it increasingly difficult for companies to invest in modernization and innovation. However, significant government grant programs are available to help offset the cost of equipment upgrades, automation, workforce training, and export expansion.

This practical webinar helps food processors and agribusinesses understand how to leverage public funding to improve productivity, strengthen competitiveness, and accelerate business growth.

What you will learn: 

Who is this webinar for?

Webinar agenda:

• • Overview of the food processing industry and key business challenges
• • How government grants support automation, sustainability, and modernization projects
• • Grant strategies to improve approval success and maximize funding outcomes
• • Case studies of funded food processing projects
• • Live Q&A session

Questions and Answers

Below you will find the answers to the questions raised during the webinar, prepared by our expert Aksa Antony.

Please note that these answers are provided for general information purposes only and do not constitute legal, tax, or financial advice.

If you have questions related to your specific situation or that of your organization, we encourage you to contact us directly.

How does trade show funding work, and what percentage of costs can be covered?

There are two kinds of funding programs targeted at Trade Shows today. One is the CanExport program and the other is the AgriMarketing Initiative. Both programs intend to expand existing market presence to new geographies.

CanExport covers up to 50% of eligible project costs, to a maximum of $50K, and the AgriMarketing Initiative covers up to 70% of eligible project costs, with a maximum contribution of $100,000 per project.

Eligible expenses may include trade show participation, exhibiting at trade shows, export marketing activities, obtaining certifications required for international markets, and market development initiatives.

These programs are designed to help companies expand into new markets and strengthen their international presence. Expenses incurred before April 1st will not be considered eligible.

Can Leyton assist with multi-phase projects — for example, initial equipment upgrades now and export expansion next year — under a broader funding strategy?

Yes. Companies can structure their funding strategy across multiple phases. Some programs support multi-year projects covering different strategic objectives, while others allow businesses to apply separately for different phases, such as equipment modernization first and export expansion later. Leyton helps clients plan and align these phases to maximize overall funding opportunities.

How can funding be used for training ourworkforce on new automation technologies?

Yes. Many funding programs support employee training, particularly when it is related to the implementation of new equipment, automation technologies, or productivity improvements. In addition, workforce development programs may provide funding on a per-employee basis to support skills development and ensure successful technology adoption.

Is funding available for molds, tooling, or specialized equipment required for production?

Yes. Funding may cover the purchase of molds, tooling, and specialized equipment, provided the investment contributes to improving productivity, production capacity, product quality, or overall operational efficiency. Eligibility depends on the specific program and the strategic objectives of the project.

If we receive repayable funding like BSUP, how flexible are repayment timelines?

Repayable funding programs such as BSUP typically offer favorable repayment terms, including interest-free contributions, a grace period following project completion, and repayment schedules spread over several years. Specific repayment conditions are outlined in the contribution agreement and are designed to provide businesses with financial flexibility while supporting growth.

How does Leyton charge for its services?

Leyton offers flexible fee structures, usually either: 

• Success-based fees, or
• Fees upon submission 
• The model depends on the grant and client needs. 

Are non profit organizations eligible for these funding programs?

Some funding programs are open to nonprofit organizations, while others are limited to for-profit businesses. Eligibility depends on the specific program, sector, and nature of the project. A detailed assessment can help identify the most appropriate funding opportunities.

Is funding available for equipment investments that require facility expansion?

Yes. Many programs support equipment purchases and installation costs that improve productivity and operational performance. Facility modifications or expansions may also be eligible when they are directly required to install or integrate new equipment. However, funding is generally not available for standalone building construction or land acquisition.

I work for a food bank. We are about to build a new warehouse. Are you aware of any funding opportunities for maybe funding for a greenhouse, vertical growing, commercial kitchen/production, or something along those lines? 

Some AAFC programs could be applicable. Lets have a discussion to uncover more of what your project looks like and identify what programs would work best in your favour. 

What trade show funding program is available for medium to large farming companies? 

Trade show funding is only available for Small to Medium companies. In the current intake, CanExport took out the Canadian agricultural sector, which includes primary agriculture, as well as agri-food and agri-products industries, from its purview. As such, the AgriMarketing program would be the best fit – however, you have to be a Small to Medium sized enterprise (SME), i.e., have less than 500 employees to qualify.