Artificial Intelligence

Overview of the Artificial Intelligence program:

The AI Program, under the Pan-Canadian Artificial Intelligence Strategy, seeks to enhance the global competitiveness of Canada’s plant-based industries by leveraging AI to fast-track innovation, optimize processes, and address consumer needs. Through three streams—Project Stream, System Stream, and Community/Capacity Building Stream—the program supports transformative initiatives, from integrating AI into production systems to addressing health and sustainability challenges. Eligible projects must involve collaborative consortia and focus on incremental innovation. Protein Industries Canada will reimburse up to 45% of eligible costs for approved projects, with no fixed maximum funding amount.

Benefits of the Artificial Intelligence program:

• Co-investment funding to advance AI-driven innovation in plant-based food and agriculture.
• Collaborative support in proposal development, including matchmaking and commercialization planning.
• Access to an AI ecosystem, including academic, business, and public sector partners.
• Support for intellectual property (IP) management and data governance strategies.
• Contributions to Canadas economic growth, sustainability, and global competitiveness.

Eligibility criteria of the Artificial Intelligence program:

• To qualify, projects must meet the following criteria:
• Involve a consortium with at least two Protein Industries Canada members, including one Small or Medium Enterprise (SME).
• Include financial contributions from at least two members.
• Align with Protein Industries Canadas goals and Global Innovation Cluster priorities.
• Be incremental, representing new innovations or expansions not already part of regular business operations.
• Demonstrate proven project management capabilities and include partners with experience in AI.
• Submit an IP rationale and data governance strategy.
• Ensure compliance with all federal sanctions, financial, and environmental regulations.