Circular Food Innovators Fund (CFIF) 2026

About

The Circular Food Innovators Fund (CFIF) 2026 offers financial support ranging from CAD 5,000 to CAD 35,000 for startups and small businesses in Toronto focused on implementing reusable food service systems, promoting sustainability, and enhancing green workforce development, with a clear application process and eligibility criteria.

Benefits

• 💰 Financial Support
• Funding amounts range from CAD 5,000 to CAD 35,000 for projects.
• 🎓 Green Workforce Development
• Additional funding of CAD 500 to CAD 5,000 for projects aimed at enhancing skills and training for green jobs.
• 🌐 Support for Sustainability
• Promotes the transition to sustainable business models in the food service industry.
• 📈 Economic Impact
• Supports the development of a circular economy in Toronto's food service sector.
• 🎤 Networking Opportunities
• Potential connections with local businesses and stakeholders in the sustainability sector.

Eligibility Criteria

• 🌍 Geographic Eligibility
• Open to businesses operating in Toronto that involve reusable food service items.
• 🏢 Legal Status
• Both for-profit and non-profit organizations can apply.
• 💼 Business Stage
• Projects must be market-ready solutions, not focused on research or prototype development.
• 👥 Team Requirements
• Encouragement for applications from businesses owned by women, minorities, Indigenous peoples, and persons with disabilities.
• 💰 Previous Funding
• Previous recipients of CFIF funding can reapply if the new project is significantly different from the previous one.

Participation Commitments

• 📍 Project Completion
• Projects must be completed within 12 months of initiation.
• 🎤 Reporting Requirement
• Final reports must be submitted within 13 months of project start.
• 💵 Funding Agreement
• Successful applicants must sign a funding agreement with the city government.
• ⏰ Payment Schedule
• Funding is disbursed in two installments: 50% upfront and 50% upon project completion and approval.

Target Region

Toronto, Canada

Target Sector

Food Service and Sustainability