Proof-of-Concept Program

📋 Eligible Entities - Researchers (academic and independent) - Startups (early-stage companies) - Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) - Organizations focused on natural products or innovative technology development - Entities with a viable project demonstrating commercial potential ### 💰 Funding Details - Maximum Grant Amount: $350,000 - Cost Coverage: Up to 40% of total project costs - Matching Requirement: Applicant must cover minimum 60% of eligible costs - Repayability: Grant funding (non-repayable) - Funding Structure: Direct grant allocation ### 🛠️ Approved Expenses - Demonstration and proof-of-concept activities - Testing and validation of innovative natural products - Technology feasibility studies - Commercial viability assessment costs - Labour and professional services related to proof-of-concept work - Equipment and materials for prototyping or testing - Documentation and reporting for commercialization readiness ### ⚠️ Conditions & Milestones - Project must demonstrate commercial feasibility of natural products or innovative technologies - Applicants must provide 60% co-funding (private, institutional, or other sources) - Clear project timeline and deliverables required - Proof-of-concept outcomes must be documented and reported - Recipients may be required to demonstrate progress toward commercialization - Funds must be used within specified project period - Compliance with program reporting and accountability requirements