The Halifax Innovation Outpost, an initiative of the Halifax Partnership, is offering up to $5,000 for startups to pilot or test circular economy technologies for the food industry, but applications are due by Nov. 13.

The Circular Food Solution Challenge is being hosted by the Partnership in collaboration with the National Zero Waste Council, which is a public sector and industry group led by Metro Vancouver, which itself is a federation of 21 British Columbian municipalities.

Companies accepted to receive funding will also have access to advice, peer-to-peer networking opportunities and chances for knowledge and resource sharing. Expenses eligible for funding include supplies, marketing, relationship development and testing costs.

Applicants must be collaborating with at least two other players in the supply chain, although those partnerships can be cross-sector. The applicant businesses should also have operations in Nova Scotia, although they need not be headquartered here.

“Preventing food waste, diverting it from landfills, and fostering a circular bioeconomy are essential steps in mitigating these environmental challenges and creating economic opportunities in Canada,” says the Halifax Partnership.

“Collaboration across various sectors in Canada supports circular strategies, knowledge exchange, and resource sharing, making it crucial to advancing these goals.”

You can learn more and apply here.