Key Takeaways:
- Investment in Agriculture: Canada and Ontario governments commit up to $25 million through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP).
- Aim: To expand production capacity and enhance energy efficiency in the agriculture and food sectors.
- Agri-Tech Innovation Initiative: Funding for farm and food processing businesses to invest in innovative technology and processes.
- Grow Ontario Strategy Goals: Increase local food production and consumption by 30% by 2032 and boost the economic impact of the food sector by 10%.
- Funding Details: Up to 50% cost-share for technology projects up to $100,000; larger projects eligible for 35% cost-share.
Overview
The governments of Canada and Ontario are investing up to $25 million to bolster the agriculture and food sector’s production capacity and energy efficiency.
Funding Allocation and Objectives
Under the Agri-Tech Innovation Initiative, eligible businesses can receive funding to invest in innovative technologies and processes. This initiative aligns with the objectives of the Grow Ontario Strategy, which focuses on increasing local food production and consumption and enhancing the economic impact of the food sector.
Government Statements
The Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, federal minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, highlighted the program’s support for innovation and technology adoption. Lisa Thompson, Ontario’s Minister of Agriculture, emphasized the government’s commitment to the sector’s growth.
Project Support and Cybersecurity
Funding will support projects that increase productivity and efficiency, including enhancing cybersecurity in the agriculture and food sectors.
Funding Eligibility and Application
Innovative technology and equipment projects are eligible for significant cost-sharing, with applications for the initiative opening on February 15, 2024.
Sustainable CAP Framework
Sustainable CAP is a five-year, $3.5-billion investment to strengthen the agriculture sector’s competitiveness, innovation, and resilience. The program includes significant federal and provincial/territorial funding, emphasizing collaborative efforts to boost the sector.
Photo by Allison Batley on Unsplash
