The Canadian Food Innovation Network this week revealed that it is awarding a total of $500,000 to 11 food-tech projects across Canada.
The funding, hailing from CFIN’s Innovation Booster Program, is set to be matched by industry for a total of $1M in investments.
The projects span a wide range of innovations, including the digitalization of food processing systems, enhancing the nutritional quality of alternative plant-based proteins, and product development involving sustainably sourced functional food ingredients.
“The diversity and creativity of Canada’s foodtech sector is on full display,” said Dana McCauley, CEO of the Canadian Food Innovation Network. “From cutting-edge AI applications to innovative health-focused products, each project will help aim us towards a more sustainable, efficient, and nutritious food system.”
“Innovations in the Canadian foodtech sector will allow the industry to improve processes through new technologies that will ensure the sustainability of food production for Canadians,” agreed federal minister François-Philippe Champagne.
Among the 11 projects, two hail from Alberta.
One of those two is haskalife. The lowercase company is named after Haskap berries, “which are renowned for their high anthocyanin content and anti-inflammatory properties,” according to chief executive officer Kiren Singh.
haskalife is conducting an independent clinical trial to explore the cardio-metabolic and cognitive benefits of its Pure Haskap Berry formulation in women over 35, a group at higher risk of hypertension and acuity impacts.
“This initiative unites an extraordinary consortium of scientists, doctors, and academics, whose knowledge and expertise provides the foundation to understand the cardio-metabolic and cognitive benefits of haskalife’s Pure Haskap Berry formulation and [to] advance solutions for women’s health and well-being,” Singh said.
Trial results are expected in 2025.
The other project receiving capital this month is CBS Bio Platforms.
CBS Bio is scaling Bacillus subtilis protease production to improve the digestibility and bioavailability of plant proteins, supporting demand for sustainable plant-based protein in both food and feed.
“One of CBS Bio Platforms’ strengths is providing sustainable feed and food solutions that boost the nutritional value of dietary proteins, fostering a healthier, sustainable future,” stated Rob Patterson, who serves CBS as vice president of innovation and commercialization.
CFIN’s Innovation Booster provides funding and support to small businesses to help them accelerate product development, overcome innovation hurdles, and validate market fit.
During this 11th round of Innovation Booster funding, CFIN received 58 applications from across the country.
In total, 61 Canadian foodtech companies have received a total of $5M from this program since it was established as part of Canada’s Strategic Innovation Fund in 2021.
Across all programs, the CFIN has awarded more than $20M to 91 Canadian foodtech projects.
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