Amount: up to 40% of the cost of the PoC project to a maximum of $350,000

The Proof of Concept Program supports projects that help to establish the commercial feasibility of innovative natural products or technologies (Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) 4-9) to advance development, commercialization, or de-risk subsequent investment.

For companies, the Program is intended to demonstrate commercial feasibility of products and technologies.
For academic research institutes, the Program is intended to move a product or technology from intellectual property disclosure to near-term spin-out and/or licensing opportunities.

The Program does not support basic research but rather supports activities that demonstrate commercial potential via animal, field, demonstration, or human trials.

The applicant must demonstrate a novel natural product or technology that aligns with NPC’s definitions of bio-based innovation – products and solutions must leverage or enhance the use of naturally occurring molecules (ie those derived from plants, trees, insects, animals, or organisms such as bacteria or microbes)

Eligibility requirements

  • be a Canadian-incorporated SME, start-up company, or academic research institute.
  • have a novel natural product or technology that aligns with NPC’s definitions of natural products or technologies and must also fit within the TRL 4-9 of the Government of Canada’s established Technology Readiness Levels.
  • SMEs and start-up companies must have the potential to achieve $10MM to $15MM in annual revenue within a reasonable period for the market or sector.
  • Products or technologies being developed within academic research institutes must address an industry/sector challenge that has a significant market potential.
  • Potential for significant economic, social, health and/or environmental benefits.
  • Technological advancement and benefits to the natural products ecosystem across Canada.
  • Technical feasibility of the project.
  • Potential for commercialization in Canada.
  • Potential spillover benefits to more than one sector.
  • Potential for improving the representation of women, visible minorities, and Indigenous peoples in the natural products ecosystem.
  • Member of Natural Products Canada.
  • A minimum NPC Contribution of $100,000.

Funding

Canadian SMEs and start-up companies and academic research institutes, can receive up to 40% of the cost of the proof of concept project to a maximum of $350,000 over a maximum 18-month project period. The applicant will be required to contribute 60% of the cost over the project period.