Assurance Systems Program — Post-Farm Assurance ### 📋 Eligible Entities - Post-farm agri-food businesses including: - Food processing companies - Food manufacturing operations - Food distribution and logistics businesses - Food retail and food service organizations - Other value-added agri-food enterprises beyond primary production - Business structure types: - Incorporated companies (federal or provincial) - Sole proprietorships - Partnerships - Co-operatives - Size eligibility: Typically small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), though confirmation of specific employee/revenue thresholds is recommended with program administrator - Geographic requirement: Canadian-based operations ### 💰 Funding Details - Funding model: Cost-shared (matching) grant - Typical matching ratio: Applicant must cover a percentage of project costs; government covers the remaining share (specific ratio varies—typically 50/50 to 75/25 government support) - Repayability: Non-repayable grant (funds do not require repayment) - Grant size range: Varies by project scope and eligible expenses; contact program administrator for maximum per-project limits - Payment structure: Typically reimbursement-based (costs incurred first, then claimed against approved budget) ### 🛠️ Approved Expenses - System development and implementation: - Design and setup of assurance/food safety management systems - Certification preparation for third-party audits (e.g., FSSC 22000, SQF, BRC) - Documentation and standard operating procedures (SOPs) - Technology and tools: - Software systems for risk monitoring and traceability - Hardware and IT infrastructure for assurance systems - Data management platforms - Training and capacity building: - Staff training on system implementation and operation - Professional development in food safety protocols - Consultant or expert fees for system design and guidance - Risk mitigation activities: - Implementation of controls to prevent, detect, or respond to food safety risks - Testing and validation of assurance measures - Supply chain risk assessment tools