Launched in 2012, the Forest Innovation Program (FIP) drives R&D for innovative technologies and products within Canada’s emerging bioeconomy. FIP funds projects that tackle fiber supply issues and meet modern market demands. Key objectives include:
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Supporting the full production cycle from seed to market.
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Advancing technologies that improve sustainability and economic performance.
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Modernizing the forest sector to ensure long-term stability for Canada’s economy.
FIP consists of three streams that work together to support its mission:
Bioeconomy support through forest innovation
The FIP drives pre-commercial R&D and the transfer of technical knowledge within the forest bioeconomy. By investing in national research leaders like FPInnovations and various federal laboratories, the program accelerates the development of next-generation technologies. Additionally, FIP supports the establishment of essential codes and standards, paving the way for early-stage bioproducts to gain market entry and scale effectively.
Funding
To strengthen the forest sector’s workforce, FIP provides NSERC-delivered scholarships and grants for post-secondary students and graduates. By targeting outreach toward youth, women, Indigenous communities, and other underrepresented groups, the program fosters a diverse talent pipeline that enhances the innovation and sustainability of Canada’s forests.
