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CALLS FOR PROPOSALS

Advancing Swine Research 
Call for Proposals

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Swine Innovation Porc (SIP), with support from the Pork Promotion and Research Agency (PPRA), has launched a new research funding call to drive innovation in the Canadian pork sector. This call seeks high-impact research projects that will improve the industry’s resilience, sustainability, and competitiveness.​​

Key Details
 

  • Call for Proposals Open: February 13, 2025
     

  • Proposal Submission Deadline: April 23, 2025, at 3:00 PM EDT
     

  • Funding Decisions Announced: July 31, 2025

What you need to know 

What is this funding opportunity?
This funding call supports collaborative, applied research that addresses key challenges in the Canadian pork industry. Projects should provide practical, science-based solutions that can be implemented by producers and industry stakeholders.

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Who is eligible to apply?

Applicants must have a proven track record in research relevant to the pork industry. Eligible applicants include:
✔ Universities & colleges
✔ Research organizations & industry associations
✔ Government research institutions

What types of projects are funded?

  • Discovery & Applied Research: Foundational and industry-driven research projects (up to $150,000 over three years).

  • Short-Term "Quick Win" Projects: Pilot studies, proof-of-concept work, and economic impact assessments (typically under $50,000, completed within a year).

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What are the priority research areas?

We are seeking proposals that align with the following key themes:

  • Animal Health – Develop new technologies and strategies to prevent and manage endemic diseases (e.g., PRRS, Strep suis etc.).

  • Buildings & Equipment – Advance alternative housing designs that improve pig welfare, efficiency, and sustainability.

  • Food Safety & Quality – Improve pathogen control and extend the shelf life of pork products.

  • Improving Energy and Water Efficiency – Increase energy & water efficiency and reduce environmental impact in pork production.

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How to Apply for SIP's Research Funding Call

  • Review the Guidelines: Ensure your project aligns with SIP’s key priority areas. 

  • Prepare Your Application:

    • Complete the Full Proposal Form and Budget Form. 

    • Gather Required Documents (See Checklist for Submitting a Full Proposal in the guidelines document)

  • Submit Your Proposal:

  • After Submission:

    • You will receive an acknowledgment of submission within two business day. If not, SIP has not received your documents.

    • Successful applicants will be notified by July 31, 2025.

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View the guidelines for more details on eligibility, instructions, and funding information: 

Download the application forms: 

  • Are in-kind contributions eligible for matching funds?
    In-kind contributions are not eligible as matching funds. SIP requires applicants to source cash contributions from partners.
  • If a cash contribution is not confirmed until July 2025 due to a pending grant, will you still consider the proposal for funding?
    SIP requires confirmation of matching funds at the time of application. If funding is pending, applicants should clearly outline their funding plan and provide evidence of expected commitments. Proposals with fully secured co-funding will be given priority.
  • What is the maximum funding request per project?
    SIP’s maximum contribution is $150,000 over three years. The remaining funds must come from eligible co-funders, including industry contributions.
  • Is a non-Canadian industry contribution eligible?
    Non-Canadian industry contributions may be eligible, provided that the project clearly demonstrates tangible benefits to Canada’s pork sector. We recommend that applicants confirm the eligibility of any international contributions with SIP prior to submission.
  • Who is eligible to apply for funding?
    SIP funding is open to universities, research institutions, industry organizations, and other eligible entities conducting research relevant to the pork sector. Applicants must demonstrate industry impact and alignment with the research priorities identified by producers and value chain members.
  • What types of projects are eligible for funding?
    Discovery or Applied Research Projects: These include core or early-stage research and applied research. For core or early-stage research, researchers are expected to clearly outline the post-project steps necessary for the research to eventually benefit producers. Short-Term Projects: These targets "quick win" initiatives such as economic impact studies, proof of concept projects, pilot studies, best management practices, and knowledge translation or demonstration projects. Short-term projects are expected to have a timeline of a year or less. All proposals should provide clear industry benefits and align with SIP’s key research priorities.
  • Are there specific research priorities for this funding call?
    Yes, the research priorities include: Endemic Animal Diseases (e.g. PRRS, Strep suis, PEDv, etc.) -  Improving the prevention, management, and mitigation of these diseases. Advancing Alternative Housing Design (Designing for pig wellbeing, economics, environment) Improving Foodborne Pathogen Control and Enhancing Shelf life Improving Energy-use and Water Efficiency, and reducing Emissions in barn construction/modernization Applicants are encouraged to review the detailed funding priorities in the application guidelines.
  • What is the application deadline, and how do I submit my proposal?
    The application deadline for this funding call is April 23, 2025, at 3:00 PM EDT. Proposals must be submittedto research@swineinnovationporc.ca. Detailed submission instructions are available in the Applicant Guidelines.
  • Can multiple organizations collaborate on a single proposal?
    Yes, collaborative projects involving multiple organizations are encouraged.
  • Do you have a list of endemic diseases for consideration?
    We have provided a few examples, such as PRRS, PEDv, and Strep suis, but please note that other endemic diseases will also be considered. Proposals should clearly demonstrate industry relevance and align with funding priorities, including disease prevention, control, and mitigation strategies.
  • I am a researcher located in another country; can I apply?
    Yes, international researchers are welcome to apply. We encourage applicants to demonstrate how their research will benefit both the Canadian and global pork industries. We particularly welcome applicants who bring expertise not readily available in Canada and who are open to collaborating with Canadian researchers or institutions.
  • Can private companies apply?
    SIP funding is typically directed toward research projects led by universities, government research institutions, or non-profit organizations. However, private companies can play an essential role as collaborators. Many successful projects combine industry expertise with academic research, ensuring both practical impact and scientific rigor. If a private company is interested, we recommend partnering with a university or research institution to meet the eligibility criteria.

For further inquiries, please email research@swineinnovationporc.ca  or refer to the full application guidelines.

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