In a tough VC environment, everyone is looking to stretch a dollar. For Canadian growers in the indoor agriculture space, we’ve uncovered seven Canadian agriculture grants that could provide crucial funding for your projects in 2025. Whether you’re running a hydroponic farm or implementing cutting-edge greenhouse technologies, these grants offer potential financial support to help your business grow.

Local Food Infrastructure Fund – Large Scale Projects

The Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) offers the Local Food Infrastructure Fund for large-scale projects. This program provides non-repayable contributions to support initiatives with multiple infrastructure needs, including indoor farming, to address community food security. The application intake period for 2025 runs from January 13 to February 28. This nationwide grant is particularly suitable for community agriculture projects seeking government support for comprehensive infrastructure development. To apply, visit the AAFC website.

Community Spaces Funding

Co-op Community Spaces provides funding for community projects in Western Canada, so covering British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba. The program supports initiatives in recreation, environmental conservation, and urban agriculture, including the development of indoor farming spaces. Projects can apply for between $25,000 and $150,000. The application period for 2025 runs from February 1 to March 3, with a deadline at 5 p.m. CST. Interested applicants can submit their proposals through the Co-op Community Spaces website.

Community Grants Microgrant Program

The Community Foundation of Central Alberta offers the Community Grants Microgrant Program, which supports various community projects in central Alberta. This program could be applicable to indoor agriculture initiatives, particularly for new projects or equipment purchases. The grant has four application deadlines throughout the year: March 1, June 1, September 1, and December 1. Applications can be submitted via the Community Foundation of Central Alberta’s website.

Foodtech Next

The Canadian Food Innovation Network’s Foodtech Next program is designed for early-stage Canadian technology firms operating in or selling to the wider food industry. This nationwide grant could be particularly relevant for innovative indoor farming technologies. The 2025 application process begins with an Expression of Interest opening on February 24, followed by a full application deadline on May 26. Interested companies can apply through the Canadian Food Innovation Network’s portal.

FCC AgriSpirit Fund

Farm Credit Canada’s AgriSpirit Fund offers grants between $10,000 and $25,000 to support capital projects in rural communities across Canada. Funds can be used for initiatives such as greenhouses and community gardens, aiming to enhance community living standards. The application period for 2025 is set to reopen in the spring. When available, applications can be submitted on the FCC website.

On-Farm Efficiency Program

The Alberta Ministry of Agriculture’s On-Farm Efficiency Program provides funding to Alberta producers for implementing technologies that enhance energy efficiency and reduce environmental impact. This provincial grant is applicable to indoor farming operations looking to improve their energy efficiency. The program is scheduled to reopen for applications on April 1, 2025. Eligible producers can apply through the Alberta Ministry of Agriculture’s website.

Innovation Booster Program

The Canadian Food Innovation Network offers the Innovation Booster Program, which provides funding to Canadian food businesses for innovative projects. This could include the development and implementation of indoor farming technologies. The program has two application rounds in 2025: Round 1 runs from February 24 to March 25, and Round 2 from July 7 to August 12. Applicants can submit via the Canadian Food Innovation Network’s funding portal.

While these Canadian agriculture grants offer valuable opportunities for funding, there’s always another way to stretch your runway. Consider working with Contain on leasing options for your indoor agriculture equipment. Leasing can be an effective strategy to conserve capital and manage cash flow, allowing you to invest in growth while preserving your financial flexibility. To explore how leasing can benefit your indoor farming operation, visit Contain’s leasing page.