Strategic Response Fund Supports Food System Capacity, Modernization & Critical Infrastructure

The Strategic Response Fund (SRF) provides contributions ranging from $10 million to $50 million for projects that improve Canada’s long-term food security, economic resilience, and manufacturing competitiveness by expanding domestic food production and processing capacity, modernizing existing operations, and investing in critical food supply chain infrastructure. Eligible projects must have minimum total project costs of $20 million.

Eligible applicants include Canadian incorporated for-profit and not-for-profit organizations carrying out business in Canada.

Projects must align with one or more of the following priority areas:

• Building New Domestic Capacity: Construction of new facilities, expansion of existing food processing and manufacturing operations, development of new food products, and projects that reduce reliance on imported food ingredients or processing capabilities.
• Modernizing Existing Capacity: Facility upgrades, production line expansions, process improvements, automation and robotics, artificial intelligence, digital manufacturing systems, advanced equipment, and other productivity-enhancing technologies.
• Strengthening Supporting Infrastructure: Investments in food-grade packaging production, packaging materials, industrial manufacturing systems, food processing equipment, and other critical inputs that improve the movement of food throughout Canada’s supply chain.

Projects must directly support food processing, manufacturing, commercialization, or food supply chain improvements. Projects focused solely on increasing primary agricultural production are generally not eligible. Preference will be given to projects that are implementation-ready, deliver measurable economic and food security benefits, incorporate innovation and modernization, and strengthen domestic supply chains by creating demand for Canadian-made products, materials, and equipment.

Applicants must first submit an Expression of Interest, followed by a Full Application if invited to proceed. Expressions of Interest are due August 4, 2026, with a second intake expected to open Fall 2026.