Funding Opportunity for Food & Beverage Processors: Processor Productivity Program 

The Sicamous & District Chamber of Commerce is proud to support the growth and success of our local business community, including the food processing, beverage production, agricultural value-added, and manufacturing sectors. As businesses continue to navigate rising costs, labour challenges, and increasing competition, opportunities that help improve efficiency and productivity are more important than ever.

One program that may be of significant interest to local businesses is the Processor Productivity Program (PPP), delivered by Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters (CME) on behalf of the Province of British Columbia.

What is the Processor Productivity Program?

The Processor Productivity Program is designed to help B.C. food and beverage processors increase productivity, improve operational efficiency, and strengthen their competitiveness through structured Lean Manufacturing training and cost-shared funding opportunities. The program is specifically geared toward growth-ready processors committed to making meaningful operational improvements.

The program is delivered in two phases:

Phase 1: Assessment & Training

Participants receive:

• Lean Maturity Assessment
• Lean 101 Training
• Lean Yellow Belt Training
• On-site operational improvement sessions
• Follow-up coaching and support

This phase helps businesses identify inefficiencies, reduce waste, improve workflows, and build internal capacity for continuous improvement.

Phase 2: Funding Support

Businesses that successfully complete Phase 1 may be invited to apply for funding support covering up to 75% of eligible project costs, with a maximum provincial contribution of $20,000. Eligible projects may include:

• Process optimization initiatives
• Workflow redesign
• Productivity-enhancing equipment upgrades
• Operational improvements aligned with Lean principles

Participation in Phase 2 is subject to eligibility requirements, funding availability, and project approval.

Who Should Apply?

The program is intended for B.C. food and beverage processors seeking to:

• Increase production efficiency
• Reduce waste and operational costs
• Improve labour utilization
• Strengthen competitiveness
• Build long-term operational excellence

Eligible processors may include food manufacturers, beverage producers, certain nutraceutical processors, and licensed cannabis processors producing edible products or beverages that meet program requirements.

Why This Matters for Sicamous

Sicamous and the surrounding region continue to see growth in agriculture, food production, manufacturing, and value-added processing. Programs like the Processor Productivity Program provide local businesses with access to industry expertise, proven Lean methodologies, and financial support that can help strengthen operations and position businesses for future growth.

The Sicamous & District Chamber of Commerce encourages eligible businesses to explore this opportunity and take advantage of resources that can help drive innovation, efficiency, and long-term success.

Learn More & Apply

For complete program details, eligibility requirements, and application information, visit:

Processor Productivity Program (PPP)

Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters – Processor Productivity Program

Contact Information

Mehdi Gohardehi
Senior Lean Facilitator & Director of Food Processor Training
Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters (CME)

Email: mehdi.gohardehi@cme-mec.ca
Phone: 236-660-7838

Applications are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis, and program spaces are limited. Interested businesses are encouraged to apply early.

The Sicamous & District Chamber of Commerce remains committed to connecting local businesses with valuable programs, funding opportunities, and resources that support economic growth and strengthen our business community.