Quality Food for Health Research and Innovation Funding Program

Information Bulletin         

May 11, 2011

Researchers invited to apply to new Quality Food for Health Research and Innovation Funding Program

Edmonton…Launched by Alberta Innovates Bio Solutions and funding partners, the aim of the new “Quality Food for Health” research and innovation program is to improve the health and well being of Albertans while increasing the competitiveness of the province’s food and agricultural industries. This three-year innovative program has base funding of $4 million with the unique ability to obtain additional funds from the funding partners if projects are in alignment with their research needs. 

Researchers with a strong Alberta connection within private industry, academic institutions, provincial and federal research centres or non-profit research establishments are invited to submit a letter of intent (LOI) to the program as the first step of the application process for a non-repayable research grant.  Multidisciplinary teams and collaboration are encouraged to foster innovative research projects. The deadline for receipt of the LOI is Friday, June 10, 2011 at 2:00 p.m. MDT. Forms and additional information is available at www.albertainnovates.ca/bio/funding. 

Up to $500,000 per project is available for eligible expenses over three years.   There is some flexibility to award larger grants depending upon the scope of the project.  Research may involve, but is not limited to, creation of new and healthier products, ingredients, beverages or supplements; healthier reformulation of existing foods, development of innovative food processing or packaging technologies, preparation for health claims or other responses to regulatory requirements, or new ways of encouraging healthier food consumption by consumers.  

This program brings together agricultural and health communities in a unique initiative that strengthens collaboration within Alberta’s research and innovation system and holds potential for unique food and health innovations. Funding partners include Alberta Innovates Bio Solutions, Alberta Innovates Health Solutions, Alberta Livestock and Meat Agency, Alberta Crop Industry Development Fund, Alberta Canola Producers Commission, Alberta Milk, and Alberta Pulse Growers.

Applicant inquiries may be directed to: Elizabeth Muir, Director, Value Added Alberta Innovates Bio Solutions Phone: 780-415-9820 Cell:  780-999-1561 E-mail: Elizabeth.Muir@albertainnovates.ca

Media inquiries may be directed to: Marie Cusack, Communications Director Alberta Innovates Bio Solutions Phone: 780-638-4060 Cell:     780-918-4620 E-mail:Marie.Cusack@albertainnovates.ca

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