The Canadian Agri-Opportunities Program contributed 33% up to a maximum of $10 million to individual, business, or not-for profit sponsored projects that would accelerate the commercialization of market ready agricultural/agri-food products, processes or services not currently produced or available for sale in Canada. Funding was to be awarded to projects that would increase market opportunities for the Canadian agricultural industry as well as augment demand for Canadian primary agricultural products. Eligible projects could have entailed:

• Finalizing commercial development of a new product, process or service;
• Introducing a new product to the market, and validating market potential or assessing customer satisfaction for the product or service;
• Introducing new technology likely to lead to improved efficiency and competitiveness; Establishing, expanding and modernizing agriculture or agri-product facilities to commercialize new products or processes for new markets; and
• Supporting marketing, human resource development, productivity improvement or quality improvement directly related to the commercialization of new agriculture, food and bioproduct opportunities.

Land purchasing were not considered as an eligible activity. Funding under $100,000 for businesses was non-repayable. Business support above $100,000 to a maximum of $10 million was negotiated as an interest free loan for up to six years. Program contributions to not-for-profit organizations was non-repayable. Interested applicants were to submit a brief proposal synopsis of their project. If the proposal passed the eligibility screening, a full proposal was requested. Applicants could receive up to $25,000 to have a consultant prepare the proposal.

Please note that there is a chance that the program will have additional funding for the year beginning April 1, 2011.