What the AgriCompetitiveness Program Can Fund
The AgriCompetitiveness Program, part of Canada's Sustainable CAP initiative, offers significant funding to enhance the agricultural sector's capacity. This article outlines what the program can fund, detailing eligible expenses and project types to help you align your initiatives with program objectives.
Program Funding Overview
The AgriCompetitiveness Program aims to support the agricultural sector by providing funding to projects that enhance capacity, foster environmental sustainability, and promote public trust in agriculture. The program has a total funding envelope of $25.7 million, with projects typically receiving up to $1 million per year and a maximum of $5 million over five years.
Funding Amounts & Rates
Maximum Funding: Up to $1 million per project per year, or $5 million over five years.
National Fair Projects: Up to $100,000 per year, or $500,000 over five years.
Cost-Sharing Ratio: AAFC covers up to 70% of eligible costs, with applicants contributing at least 30%.
Eligible Expenses
Capacity Building
The program funds activities that build sector capacity, including:
Environmental information and benchmarking projects.
Producer-oriented seminars and conferences.
Development of entrepreneurial skills and industry leadership.
Public Trust and Education
Projects that enhance public understanding and trust in agriculture are supported, such as:
National agricultural fairs and exhibitions.
Consumer education initiatives on food production.
Farm Management Improvements
Funding supports farm management enhancements, including:
Risk management activities.
Farm safety information and tools.
Mental Health and Inclusion
The program also covers:
Projects promoting mental health awareness.
Initiatives encouraging diversity and inclusion within the agricultural sector.
Ineligible Expenses
The program does not fund:
Projects outside the agricultural scope.
Expenses not aligned with program objectives.
Any costs deemed ineligible by AAFC, including those exceeding the in-kind contribution limits.
Expense Documentation Requirements
Applicants must provide documentation for all expenses, including:
Invoices and receipts for purchases.
Records of in-kind contributions.
Proof of payment for goods and services.
Examples of Funded Projects
Environmental Benchmarking: Projects that develop benchmarks for environmental performance in agriculture.
Educational Fairs: Events that educate the public on sustainable farming practices.
Risk Management Tools: Development of new tools to manage agricultural risks effectively.
Funding Disbursement & Claiming Process
Funding is disbursed upon completion of project milestones. Applicants must submit claims with appropriate documentation to receive reimbursement.
Stacking Rules
The AgriCompetitiveness Program can be combined with other funding programs, provided total public funding does not exceed 100% of eligible costs.
Real-World Budgeting Tips
Plan for both cash and in-kind contributions, ensuring in-kind does not exceed 15% of total costs.
Maintain detailed records to avoid disallowance of expenses.
Conclusion
Understanding the funding scope of the AgriCompetitiveness Program is crucial for maximizing its benefits. Align your projects with the program's objectives to successfully secure funding and enhance your agricultural initiatives.
