If your Canadian agri-food business needs third-party certification to access new markets, the AgriAssurance Program (SME Component) may help cover the cost. This federal program supports small and medium-sized enterprises that are implementing assurance systems required by export markets or domestic Indigenous markets. Eligible businesses can receive up to $50,000 in funding for approved certification-related projects.
The AgriAssurance Program — Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises Component is delivered by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC). The program helps Canadian agri-food SMEs adopt recognized assurance systems. This allows businesses to make verifiable claims about food safety, quality, or production practices.
For example, if your total project costs are $80,000, the maximum AAFC contribution would be $40,000. Your business must pay the remaining $40,000 in cash.
To qualify for the AgriAssurance Program (SME Component), your business must:
The program focuses on assurance system implementation. Eligible expenses often include:
General operating expenses and unrelated equipment purchases are not typically eligible.
Applying is manageable if you prepare in advance. Here is how the process usually works.
Before you apply, identify:
Your project must clearly link the assurance system to market access.
AAFC expects a detailed budget showing:
Only cash contributions count toward your share. Staff time or internal resources cannot be used to meet the cost-share requirement.
You will typically need:
Tools like GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you filter programs by province and industry in seconds, which is useful if you plan to combine this program with other agriculture funding.
Applications are submitted directly through Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada. The program status can change, so check the AAFC website for the latest information before you apply. Funding is limited and assessed on a project-by-project basis.
Approval is not guaranteed. Clear, detailed applications that align with program goals are more likely to succeed.
Including in-kind contributions in the budget
Only cash contributions are eligible. In-kind support will weaken your application.
Applying without a defined market requirement
AAFC wants to see a clear link between the assurance system and a real market need.
Underestimating total project costs
If costs rise after approval, the funding amount usually does not increase.
Using generic project descriptions
Vague language makes it harder for assessors to confirm eligibility.
Q: How much funding can I receive from the AgriAssurance Program (SME Component)?
You can receive up to $50,000 per project, covering up to 50% of eligible costs. Your business must provide the remaining amount in cash.
Q: Are in-kind contributions allowed for the cost-share?
No. In-kind contributions such as staff time or internal resources are not eligible. Only cash contributions count toward your share.
Q: Does the program support domestic Indigenous market requirements?
Yes. Projects that help meet assurance requirements for domestic Indigenous markets are eligible, as long as they involve third-party verification.
Q: What types of assurance systems are supported?
The program supports third-party assurance systems related to food safety, quality, or production practices that enable verifiable claims.
Q: Is AgriAssurance funding taxable?
In most cases, government funding is considered taxable income. Speak with a Canadian accountant or tax professional to understand how this applies to your business.
The AgriAssurance Program (SME Component) can be a good fit if certification is the main barrier keeping your business out of new markets. GrantHub tracks hundreds of active grant programs across Canada — check which ones match your business profile so you can plan your assurance project alongside other agriculture funding.
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