Ontario Invests Over $7 Million in Agriculture and Food Sector to Boost Exports
Toronto – In a bid to propel Ontario’s agriculture and food sectors onto the global stage, the governments of Canada and Ontario have announced a substantial investment of over $7 million in approved projects through the Grow Ontario Market Initiative. This initiative, part of the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP), aims to foster growth and competitiveness within Ontario’s agricultural landscape while facilitating increased sales in both domestic and foreign markets.
Launched last year with a budget of $12 million, the Grow Ontario Market Initiative continues to accept applications, offering primary producers, food processors, and industry organizations cost-share funding to undertake crucial activities such as market analysis, new product development, and marketing strategies.
“Our hardworking farmers and food processors produce the best products in the world,” stated the Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, federal Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food. “With this funding through the Grow Ontario Market Initiative, we’re helping them promote their top-quality products and establish new markets here in Canada and around the world.”
The impact of this initiative is already evident, with more than 175 projects approved for funding in its first year alone. Examples of approved projects include Superior Bakes Inc. of Thunder Bay conducting a shelf-life study to enhance their product line’s marketability domestically, the Ontario Sheep Farmers developing marketing research services to promote meat products within Ontario, and Advantage Health Matters Inc. of Toronto expanding their exports to the United Kingdom.
Lisa Thompson, Ontario Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, emphasized the provincial government’s commitment to the Grow Ontario Strategy, which aims to increase the province’s agriculture and food exports by eight percent annually. “The Grow Ontario Market Initiative is already making a difference,” she stated, “by helping them to reach new market opportunities.”
The Sustainable CAP, spanning from 2023 to 2028, represents a $3.5-billion investment by federal, provincial, and territorial governments to strengthen competitiveness, innovation, and resiliency in the agriculture and agri-food sector. This partnership underscores the collective effort to drive sustainable growth and prosperity within the province.
For those interested in participating in the Grow Ontario Market Initiative, application information can be obtained by contacting the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs or visiting their website.
Commentary:
The investment of over $7 million in Ontario’s agriculture and food sectors marks a significant step forward in promoting economic growth and sustainability within the province. The Grow Ontario Market Initiative, coupled with the broader Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership, demonstrates a strong commitment by both federal and provincial governments to support farmers, food processors, and industry organizations in accessing new markets and enhancing competitiveness.
As Ontario continues to navigate through economic challenges, initiatives like these are crucial for driving innovation, creating jobs, and ensuring the long-term viability of the agriculture and food sectors. By fostering a supportive environment for businesses to thrive, the province can further solidify its position as a key player in the global market while contributing to the overall prosperity of the Greater Toronto Area and beyond.
