Addressing the Needs of Small Scale Processors
The Small Scale Food Processors Scale Up Support Program was designed to tackle the challenges faced by small-scale processors in British Columbia. Through detailed research, surveys, and participant feedback, we developed a series of strategic recommendations aimed at helping processors scale up, overcome obstacles, and achieve long-term sustainability.
These recommendations are crafted to provide practical, targeted support for key areas like labor, inflation, supply chains, and co-packing challenges, ensuring the continued growth and success of small-scale processors.
Strategic Recommendations for the Future
Our report outlines ten actionable recommendations that are crucial for addressing the challenges faced by small-scale food processors. Each recommendation provides a strategic pathway to strengthen and scale up businesses in this sector.
01.
Centralized Grant and Funding Information Platform
We propose creating a user-friendly, centralized platform for small-scale food processors to easily access information on available grants and funding opportunities.
02.
Grant Programs for Equipment Acquisition
We recommend developing targeted grant programs to assist processors in acquiring the necessary equipment to scale up operations effectively.
03.
Financial Literacy Programs
Implementing comprehensive financial literacy programs will equip processors with the skills to manage their finances, improve cash flow, and make informed investment decisions.
04.
Food Science Support Program
A dedicated support program focused on food science can help processors innovate and ensure product quality, meeting regulatory requirements while staying competitive.
05.
Sales and Marketing Training
We suggest tailored training programs that enhance processors’ abilities to market their products effectively, increase sales, and expand their customer base.
06.
User-Friendly Food Safety Resources
A practical, easily accessible food safety resource will help processors comply with regulatory requirements without overwhelming them.
07.
Cost Reduction and Business Scaling Support
Providing businesses with strategies to reduce operational costs and streamline processes will enable them to scale up sustainably.
08.
Export Assistance Program
An export-focused program can guide small-scale processors in expanding to international markets, helping them grow beyond local or provincial boundaries.
Why These Recommendations Are Crucial
The food processing industry is evolving rapidly, and small-scale processors face unique challenges that threaten their ability to compete and grow. These ten strategic recommendations are not just solutions—they are the building blocks for future resilience and competitiveness. Addressing critical areas like financial literacy, market expansion, and labor retention, our recommendations provide processors with the tools they need to navigate uncertainties and thrive.
Women make up
51% of Canada
They recieve
1.9% of Funding
Venture-Capital Ready Program
Investment Training for Women Entrepreneurs
Impact in Action: Success Stories
The recommendations we provide aren’t just theoretical. They are based on real-world feedback and are already making a difference for small-scale processors across British Columbia.
Elaine Van
Not Too Sweet Craft SodasElaine Van, CEO
Not Too Sweet Craft Sodas
“The Scale Up Program has delivered tremendous value to Not Too Sweet craft sodas. Gaining access to knowledgeable experts on issues affecting our scaling business would be nearly impossible to source on our own. The program facilitated learnings that will highly impact our financing and sales strategies. We’re glad to have participated in the program!”
Mandy Dewit
Riverside Cranberry Farm (The BOG)Mandy Dewit, Owner
Riverside Cranberry Farm (The BOG)
“One of the big challenges of small food businesses like ourselves is having the time and resources to network with strategic people within the industry. Jody Marshall of Sustainable Results Group offered us valuable connections with excellent key experts experienced in their fields through the Scale Up webinars. It is these networking resources that we value the most in our journey of growth and development as a startup BC-based food business.”
Elaine Van, CEO | Not Too Sweet Craft Sodas
“The Scale Up Program has delivered tremendous value to Not Too Sweet craft sodas. Gaining access to knowledgeable experts on issues affecting our scaling business would be nearly impossible to source on our own. The program facilitated learnings that will highly impact our financing and sales strategies. We’re glad to have participated in the program!”
Mandy Dewit, Owner | Riverside Cranberry Farm (The BOG)
“One of the big challenges of small food businesses like ourselves is having the time and resources to network with strategic people within the industry. Jody Marshall of Sustainable Results Group offered us valuable connections with excellent key experts experienced in their fields through the Scale Up webinars. It is these networking resources that we value the most in our journey of growth and development as a startup BC-based food business.”
Download the Full Recommendations Report
Ready to dive deeper into the recommendations and their potential impact? Download the summary (Project Performance Report) or the full report (Final Report) for a comprehensive look at how we can help small-scale food processors thrive in a challenging industry. You can also stay informed (Recommendation Updates) on projects addressing key recommendations for small-scale food processors.
And if you’re not yet a member of SSFPA, join us today!
