The Government of Ontario’s Forest Sector Investment and Innovation Program (FSIIP) is a strategic initiative aimed at boosting productivity, competitiveness, and innovation in the forestry sector. It offers financial assistance to for-profit manufacturers and processors of wood and forest biomass, helping businesses modernize operations and access new markets.
What is the Forest Sector Investment and Innovation Program?
FSIIP is a funding initiative that provides strategic financial support to for-profit manufacturers and processors of wood and forest biomass. The primary goal of the program is to encourage innovation, improve market competitiveness, and support expansion into new markets. By doing so, the program helps strengthen Ontario’s forestry industry, ensuring long-term sustainability and economic viability.
The program offers financial support under two key categories:
Business Projects: Supports capital investments by individual for-profit businesses.
Collaboration Projects: Encourages joint initiatives between businesses, research institutions, and industry associations to drive innovation.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for funding, projects must align with the program’s objectives and demonstrate a commitment to enhancing productivity, increasing market access, and driving innovation. The eligibility requirements vary based on the type of project:
Business Projects
For-profit manufacturers and processors of wood and forest biomass operating in Ontario are eligible for funding under this category. Businesses that fall under this category include:
Sawmills
Pulp and paper mills
Secondary wood manufacturers
Bio-economy project operators
It is important to note that harvesting and resource extraction projects are not eligible for funding under this program.
To qualify, business projects must have a minimum eligible cost of $3 million.
Funding Details
Business Projects: Up to 30% of eligible costs as a performance-based loan (up to 50% forgivable). In special cases, grants covering 15% of eligible costs may be available.
Collaboration Projects: Grants covering 30% of eligible costs (up to $3 million), with total government support capped at 75% of project costs.
Selection Process
Projects undergo a two-stage evaluation:
Stage I: Initial screening to ensure eligibility and alignment with program goals.
Stage II: Competitive, rounds-based assessment, including financial and technical due diligence.
How CTAP Can Help
Navigating government funding can be complex. CTAP provides expert guidance to businesses applying for FSIIP Grant, ensuring compliance with eligibility criteria and maximizing funding potential. Our team assists with:
Application Preparation: Crafting strong business plans and completing necessary documentation.
Financial Strategy: Structuring proposals to optimize funding support.
Compliance Support: Ensuring adherence to FSIIP guidelines.
Application Deadlines
FSIIP operates on a rounds-based system. Upcoming deadlines include:
Round 22: Stage I: March 21, 2025 | Stage II: April 29, 2025
For personalized support, contact CTAP today and maximize your funding opportunities!
