After three years of strong growth, the Rapid Response to Business Development Initiative (RRBDI) continues to build momentum. Launched in April 2022, by the Grand River Agricultural Society (GRAS), the program has grown steadily, with six projects funded in its first year, nine in its second, and 13 in its third. RRBD is designed to help early-stage Ontario companies—particularly in the ag-tech, green-tech, and agri-food sectors—seize timely market opportunities. It offers up to $10,000 per project to support eligible travel and related costs needed to “close the deal.”

In recognition of the program’s ongoing success, GRAS will increase its annual investment to $150,000 for 2025–2026. Delivery of the initiative will transition to the Agricultural Adaptation Council, a sister organization to current partner Canlead Solutions, ensuring continued expertise in program administration.

Application details and eligibility criteria are available at: grandriveragsociety.com/philanthropy