Proof of Concept Program

Overview of the Proof of Concept Program program:

The Proof of Concept Program supports projects that help to establish the commercial feasibility of innovative natural products or technologies (Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) 4-9) to advance development, commercialization, or de-risk subsequent investment. NPC defines natural products or technologies as biologically based innovations that leverage or enhance the use of naturally occurring molecules. NPC is looking for highly innovative products or technologies with proprietary intellectual property. The innovation must benefit people, animals and the planet, and may be applied to a range of industries, including food production and value-added agriculture; bioproducts and sustainability; human nutrition, health, and wellness; animal health and nutrition; and water and waste management. Technologies and solutions based on IT (software, hardware, AI, etc.) or mechanical solutions (drones, automation, etc.) that exclude a biological element fall outside of the scope for the Programs. Canadian SMEs, start-up companies, and academic research institutes can receive up to 40% of the cost of the proof of concept project to a maximum of $250,000 over a maximum 18-month project period. The applicant will be required to contribute 60% of the cost over the project period. The Program does not support basic research but rather supports activities that demonstrate commercial potential via animal, field, demonstration, or human trials. For companies, the Program is intended to demonstrate the commercial feasibility of products and technologies. For academic research institutes, the Program is intended to move a product or technology from intellectual property disclosure to near-term spin-out and/or licensing opportunities.

Eligibility criteria of the Proof of Concept Program program:

• Minimum Eligibility Requirements
• Canadian incorporated SME, start-up company, or academic research institute.
• Applicant has a novel natural product or technology that aligns with NPCs definitions of natural products or technologies (See examples of previously funded projects) and must also fit within the TRL 4-9 of the Government of Canadas established Technology Readiness Levels.
• SMEs and start-up companies must have the potential to achieve $10MM to $15MM in annual revenue within a reasonable period for the market or sector.
• Products or technologies being developed within academic research institutes must address an industry/sector challenge that has a significant market potential.
• Potential for significant economic, social, health and/or environmental benefits.
• Technological advancement and benefits to the natural products ecosystem across Canada.
• Technical feasibility of the project.
• Potential for commercialization in Canada.
• Potential spillover benefits to more than one sector.
• Potential for improving the representation of women, visible minorities, and Indigenous peoples in the natural products ecosystem.
• A member of Canadas Natural Product Innovation Cluster.