Artificial Intelligence Program

Artificial Intelligence Program

Supports collaborative teams in Canada through Protein Industries Canada Artificial Intelligence co-investment for plant-based innovation.

Protein Industries Canada (PIC) has allocated CAD $30 million through March 31, 2028 for its Artificial Intelligence Program, which co-invests in collaborative consortia applying AI technology anywhere along Canada's plant-based food, feed, and ingredients value chain. PIC is one of Canada's federally funded Global Innovation Clusters, backed by a cumulative federal commitment of up to $323 million. Per-project award amounts are not published — they depend on scope and impact — but the total program envelope of CAD $30 million is fixed and closes permanently on March 31, 2028. Project proposals submitted to PIC are reviewed within six weeks of submission, making this one of the faster turnaround co-investment programs in the Canadian cluster ecosystem.

Eligible applicants are collaborative consortia of two or more partner companies operating within the plant-based sector. At least one Canadian SME must participate, and teams are expected to include diverse and inclusive membership spanning women, Indigenous Peoples, and underrepresented groups where possible. Proposals must align with PIC's Investment Thesis and Global Innovation Cluster priorities. Consortia may be required to complete a Data and AI Readiness Program — a feasibility-stage assessment — before submitting a Full Project Proposal, depending on their assessed readiness for an AI-enabled project.

Applications follow a two-stage process: an Expression of Interest (EOI) is submitted first, followed by a Full Project Proposal for invited applicants. Intake is continuous and currently open. To maximize competitiveness, consortia should demonstrate a concrete AI application within the plant-protein value chain, a data strategy that supports the AI use case, and a measurable commercial or productivity outcome. Initial EOI submissions are directed to projects@proteinsupercluster.ca and should include company name, contact person, website, and a brief project description.