AgriCompetitiveness Program
Canada
Funding to build capacity in the agricultural sector
grant_single_labels|summary
grant_single|eligibleFinancing
- grant_single|maxCount
- grant_single|projectCostPercent
grant_single|deadlines
- grant_single|openingDateMarch 08, 2023
grant_single|financingType
Grant and Funding
grant_single|eligibleIndustries
- Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
grant_single|grantors
- Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC)
- Government of Canada
grant_single|status
grant_card_status|open
grant_single_labels|preview
The AgriCompetitiveness Program, under the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership, offers up to $1 million per year or a maximum of $5 million over five years for projects aimed at enhancing the agricultural sector's development through environmental awareness, capacity building, and risk management. Eligible activities include sector-led seminars, educational initiatives at national fairs, management improvement projects, and promoting inclusivity and diversity within the sector.
grant_single_labels|terms_and_conditions
The AgriCompetitiveness Program provides structured financial assistance to foster sector growth and sustainability. The funding modalities are designed to maximize impact while ensuring shared responsibility between AAFC and applicants.
- AAFC funds up to 70% of eligible project costs, with the applicant required to contribute a minimum of 30%.
- AAFC's contribution is capped at $1 million per year or $5 million over five years for typical projects.
- Projects by national fairs aimed at awareness or education may receive up to $100,000 per year, with a total of $500,000 over five years.
- In-kind contributions can account for a maximum of 15% of total eligible project costs.
- Eligibility and valuation of in-kind contributions must be confirmed with AAFC program staff early in the process.
grant_single_labels|projects
The AgriCompetitiveness Program supports a variety of initiatives aimed at enhancing the Canadian agricultural sector's development, capacity, and resilience. Eligible projects focus on industry development, education, and inclusivity.
- Projects that increase the sector's development of environmental information and benchmarking.
- Industry-led efforts providing necessary information for sector capacity building.
- Sector-led activities such as producer-oriented seminars and conferences showcasing industry best practices.
- Projects by national agricultural fairs and exhibitions promoting agricultural awareness and education.
- Farm management improvement projects, including risk management and farm safety information provision.
- Projects promoting mental health and agricultural awareness through national consumer education.
- Initiatives that promote careers in agriculture and expand skills and best practices within the sector.
- Programs assisting producers in developing and implementing business and strategic plans.
- Leadership development and knowledge transfer activities to respond to market demands and improve public trust.
- Engagement activities with Indigenous Peoples and other underrepresented groups, focusing on inclusivity and diversity.
- Projects by national agricultural organizations that prioritize environmental sustainability and future generation support.
grant_single|admissibleProjectsExample
$ 245,000
Establish a leadership development program for young farmers
$ 315,000
Launch an entrepreneur skill-building initiative for Indigenous farmers
$ 140,000
Promote mental health awareness through a series of workshops for farmers
$ 105,000
Host a series of webinars on risk management and financial planning for farmers
$ 280,000
Develop a farm safety resource kit for distribution to producers nationwide
$ 350,000
Organize a national agricultural fair focusing on sustainable practices in the sector
grant_single_labels|admissibility
Eligibility for this grant is determined by specific requirements related to the applicant's profile and proposed activities.
- Applicants must be involved in sector-led activities that focus on agricultural awareness, education, and sector development.
- Projects should aim to improve farm management, support mental health, enhance public trust, and promote careers in agriculture.
- The applicant must be prepared to share costs, contributing a minimum of 30% of the project's eligible costs, with in-kind contributions not exceeding 15% of total eligible costs.
- Projects should engage with Indigenous Peoples, and other underrepresented and marginalized groups, and focus on inclusivity and diversity.
- The proposed projects must be national in scope and involve national agricultural organizations.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply
Eligible applicants for the AgriCompetitiveness Program include organizations engaged in agricultural sector initiatives that aim to enhance capacity and develop the industry in Canada. Applicants should be actively involved in projects that support sector-led activities, improve farm management, promote agricultural careers, and emphasize inclusivity and diversity within the sector. This includes, but is not limited to, national agricultural organizations and national domestic agricultural fairs and exhibitions.
grant_eligibility_criteria|eligible_expenses
The grant is available for projects that advance sector knowledge, capacity, public trust, and safety in agriculture through information sharing, educational efforts, and strategic planning. These initiatives aim to strengthen the sustainable development and resilience of Canada's agricultural sector.
- Projects increasing sector development of environmental information and benchmarking.
- Industry-led activities providing information to enhance sector capacity and development.
- Sector-led seminars and conferences to share best practices and enhance profitability.
- Projects by national agriculture fairs and exhibitions for educational purposes and public trust.
- Farm management improvement projects, including risk management activities.
- Initiatives promoting mental health and trust through public education on agriculture.
- Projects promoting agricultural careers, skills, and best practices expansion.
- Activities facilitating knowledge and skills sharing within the sector.
- National farm safety strategies and mental health awareness activities.
- Business management and planning capacity development projects.
- Leadership development and knowledge transfer activities.
- Engagement projects with Indigenous Peoples and underrepresented groups.
- Initiatives supporting environmental sustainability and generational transition.
grant_single_labels|criteria
There are evaluation and selection criteria for this grant.
- Projects will be evaluated based on their ability to enhance sector development, capacity building, industry best practices, and public trust.
- Selection criteria include promoting mental health, supporting career development, fostering industry knowledge transfer, engaging with underrepresented groups, and strengthening environmental sustainability.
grant_single_labels|register
Here are the steps to submit an application for this grant:
- Step 1: Understand Program Offerings
- Familiarize yourself with the objectives, funding details, and eligible activities of the program.
- Review the intake periods and funding limits.
- Step 2: Ensure Eligibility
- Verify that your organization and proposed activities meet the eligibility criteria of the program.
- Step 3: Preparation Before Application
- Contact AAFC program staff to confirm the eligibility and valuation of any in-kind contributions.
- Step 4: Application Preparation
- Draft a proposal detailing your project’s objectives, outcomes, and financial requirements.
- Gather necessary documentation, including budgets, timelines, and any supporting materials.
- Step 5: Submit Application
- Submit your application through the required channel as outlined by the program guidelines.
- Make sure all required documents are complete and uploaded before the deadline.
- Step 6: Post-Submission Procedures
- Await confirmation and any further communications from the funding body regarding your application status.
grant_single_labels|otherInfo
Here are additional relevant details for this grant:
- The program reserves the right to make the final determination of the eligibility and value of in-kind contributions.
- The importance of contacting AAFC program staff early on is stressed to confirm eligibility and valuation of in-kind contributions.
Apply to this program
Transforming the Future of Agriculture Through the AgriCompetitiveness Program
The AgriCompetitiveness Program supports Canadian agricultural and agri-food sectors by funding initiatives that boost sector development, enhance environmental practices, and promote industry leadership. This expansive program emphasizes capacity building, mental health awareness, and public trust in agriculture to foster a resilient and thriving food production system in Canada.
In-Depth Understanding of the AgriCompetitiveness Program's Objectives and Benefits
The $25.7-million AgriCompetitiveness Program, running until March 31, 2028, is part of the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership. It's crafted to propel the Canadian agriculture and agri-food sector into a future defined by sustainability, innovation, and enhanced competitiveness. This program seeks to empower agricultural producers and other stakeholders by supporting strategic projects that align with broader economic and environmental goals.
Key components of the program involve expanding sector-wide capabilities and sharing comprehensive knowledge and best practices. By funding projects up to $1 million annually (and $5 million over five years for significant initiatives), the program facilitates various activities, including educational seminars, workshops, and conferences. These activities are crucial in promoting best practices and fostering the agility needed to adapt to changing market demands and regulatory landscapes.
A unique focus of the program is its commitment to enhancing mental health resources and public trust in Canada's food systems. It aims to educate consumers about national agricultural practices, thereby enhancing their perception of agriculture’s vital role in economic sustainability and food security. By bolstering mental health awareness and safety strategies, the program ensures that the agricultural community remains robust, both in productivity and in personnel well-being.
Moreover, the program underlines the need to attract and develop talent within the sector. By promoting careers in agriculture and encouraging leadership development, it lays the foundation for a skilled workforce capable of navigating an increasingly complex global marketplace. This initiative not only caters to immediate workforce demands but also systematically builds the next generation of agricultural leaders.
The program also emphasizes inclusivity, advocating for the engagement of Indigenous communities and marginalized groups. Their involvement enriches the sector with diverse perspectives and addresses unique challenges, ensuring a more equitable and innovative agricultural landscape. The program encourages projects that reflect these values, promoting inclusivity as a cornerstone of sectoral growth.
To maximize its impact, the program operates on a cost-sharing basis. Typically, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) covers up to 70% of eligible costs, requiring applicants to invest a minimum of 30%, which can include both cash and in-kind contributions. This approach not only mitigates financial barriers but also encourages project proponents to maintain significant ownership and accountability over their initiatives.
The AgriCompetitiveness Program, therefore, stands as a vital instrument for driving transformative change within Canada's agricultural sectors. It embodies a holistic vision that integrates economic imperatives with a commitment to environmental stewardship and social responsibility, paving the way for a resilient and prosperous agricultural future.
