2016 Grains Innovation Fund open for proposals
GUELPH, ON (October 6, 2015) – Grain Farmers of Ontario has released its call for proposals for the 2016 Grains Innovation Fund.
A Market Development initiative, the Grains Innovation Fund is available to support the development of new and reformulated products and processes that have the potential to expand the markets for Ontario barley, corn, oat, soybean, and wheat crops or crop residues.
“Eligible projects will have a direct impact on Ontario grain farmers through an increase in returns to farmers or an increase in the use of Ontario grains,” says Barry Senft, CEO of Grain Farmers of Ontario. “Projects that demonstrate a return on investment for the grain industry as a whole – like increased infrastructure or a new processing facility – are also eligible.”
Projects which satisfy the eligibility criteria established for this fund can receive up to 60% of the cost of the project, up to a maximum of $50,000.
“We look forward to seeing what new innovations and ideas are out there,” says Senft. “It’s always invigorating to see increased investment in the Ontario grain industry and we hope to support some exciting growth opportunities for our industry.”
Interested companies must submit the application form found at www.gfo.ca/marketdevelopment. Prior to submission, companies are encouraged to contact Grain Farmers of Ontario to discuss their project idea – contact Nicole Mackellar at nmackellar@gfo.ca or 519-767-4124.
Grain Farmers of Ontario
Grain Farmers of Ontario is the province’s largest commodity organization, representing Ontario’s 28,000 barley, corn, oat, soybean and wheat farmers. The crops they grow cover 6 million acres of farm land across the province, generate over $2.5 billion in farm gate receipts, result in over $9 billion in economic output and are responsible for over 40,000 jobs in the province.
Contact:
Mark Brock, Chair – 519-274-3297; cropper01@hotmail.com
Meghan Burke, Communications – 519 767-2773; mburke@gfo.ca