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Building the Future:
Recommendations for Scaling Small Scale Food Processors.

Our tailored strategies to address challenges and foster sustainable growth in the food processing industry.

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 applicable to all of Canada that are 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.

Project Performance ReportFinal (Full) ReportPress Release

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.

09.

Labor Attraction and Retention Program
Labor shortages are a significant challenge. A dedicated labor program can support processors in attracting, retaining, and training staff, especially in rural areas.

10.

Co-Packing Assistance Program
With many processors struggling to find reliable co-packing services, we recommend exploring a program to connect them with suitable partners, easing a critical bottleneck in scaling up operations.
Click here to stay informed on Projects Addressing Key Recommendations for Small Scale Food Processors

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 receive 1.9% of funding

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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, 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.”

Stay Informed.

Subscribe to receive exclusive updates on SSFPA projects and initiatives designed in response to the ten strategic recommendations from the Scale Up Support Program. By signing up, you’ll get:

  • Program updates: News on new initiatives and funding related to our recommendations.
  • Event invites: Webinars and events tackling industry challenges from the recommendations.
  • Exclusive insights: Early news on policy and strategies from the recommendations.
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