Agricultural Climate Solutions – Living Labs Program: How to Apply

Canadian farmers are working to reduce emissions and keep their operations strong. The Agricultural Climate Solutions – Living Labs Program gives funding for real, on-farm research. This research tests climate-smart practices in local conditions. Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) leads this federal initiative, which supports projects across the country.

What the Living Labs Program Funds and Who Can Apply

The Living Labs Program is for groups that bring together farmers, researchers, and other partners. These groups co-develop and test solutions on working farms.

Eligible applicants

Applications are usually led by organizations. Individual farms join as partners. Common eligible leads and partners include:

Producer organizations and farm groups
Individual farmers (as project partners)
Research institutions and universities
Non-profits and industry groups in agriculture
Other partners that support on-farm innovation

Projects must include active farmer participation and on-farm trials.

Eligible project focus areas

Projects need to address climate change in agriculture. They must include a strong on-farm component. Focus areas often include:

Reducing greenhouse gas emissions
Improving soil health and storing carbon
Climate change adaptation practices
Sustainable cropping and livestock systems

Practices should be tested in real farm conditions, not just labs or greenhouses.

Funding structure

Funding is non-repayable—it is not a loan
Total funding amounts depend on the intake and project scope
Budgets are set by each call for proposals, not a fixed cap per project

Funding levels can change, so check the details of the current call before applying.

How to Apply to the Agricultural Climate Solutions – Living Labs Program

The application process is more detailed than most farm grants. Planning early is important.

Step 1: Watch for open calls

The Living Labs Program does not accept applications year-round. AAFC opens targeted calls for proposals based on regions or themes.

Calls are posted on the AAFC program page
Each call sets its own deadlines, priorities, and funding limits

Step 2: Build a strong project network

Successful applications include:

Several farms willing to test practices
One or more research or technical partners
A lead organization to manage reporting and finances

Individual farms usually join as partners, not as lead applicants.

Step 3: Define your on-farm research plan

Your proposal must explain:

What practice or system will be tested
Why it matters for climate mitigation or adaptation
How farmers will help design, test, and evaluate
How results will be shared with other producers

AAFC wants practical, scalable outcomes—not just theory.

Step 4: Prepare budgets and timelines

Applications need clear budgets. Include:

Eligible project costs
Partner contributions (cash or in-kind, if needed)
Multi-year timelines tied to field seasons

You can use tools like GrantHub’s eligibility matcher to check if your group fits federal program requirements before starting a full proposal.

Step 5: Submit and respond to follow-ups

After submission:

AAFC may ask for clarifications or changes
Approved projects sign a contribution agreement
Reporting is required during the project

Tips for a Successful Application

Apply as a collaborative project

Living Labs is built on teamwork. Projects without strong networks are rarely chosen.

Focus on research, not only equipment

The program funds research and testing. It does not fund just equipment upgrades.

Engage farmers deeply

Farmers should help develop and test practices, not just host trials.

Address the specific call’s priorities

Each intake may focus on certain practices or regions. Match your proposal to the current call.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is the Agricultural Climate Solutions – Living Labs Program repayable?
No. Funding is provided as non-repayable contributions through AAFC.

Q: Can individual farmers apply directly?
Usually, individual farmers join as project partners. Applications are typically led by producer organizations, research institutions, or non-profits.

Q: How much funding can a project receive?
There is no fixed amount. Funding depends on the specific call for proposals and the project’s scope.

Q: Is the program available in all provinces?
Yes. It is a federal program with projects supported across Canada.

Q: Are Living Labs grants taxable?
Grant funding is usually considered taxable income. The tax treatment may vary, so check the CRA guidance or speak to an accountant to understand how it applies to your situation.

Tips for a Successful Application

Build a strong network with farmers and researchers.
Make sure your project matches the current call’s focus.
Share clear results and involve farmers in all stages.

Next Steps

If you are interested in the Agricultural Climate Solutions – Living Labs Program, start by finding partners and watching for the next AAFC call. These projects take time to plan and coordinate.

Visit GrantHub to check your eligibility and get updates on federal and provincial agriculture grant programs across Canada. This can help you find the right programs for your farm or organization and avoid missing deadlines.

See also:

Loans vs Grants for Women in Agriculture: Key Differences Explained
How to stack grants and loans without violating funding rules
What Business Expenses Are Eligible Across Canadian Grants and Loans?

Agricultural Climate Solutions – Living Labs Program: How to Apply