AgriDiversity Program
Canada
Funding to improve diversity in the agriculture and agri-food sector
grant_single_labels|summary
grant_single|eligibleFinancing
- grant_single|maxCount
- grant_single|projectCostPercent
grant_single|deadlines
- grant_single|openingDateMarch 28, 2023
- grant_single|grantStatusClosed
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
- Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (SCAP)
grant_single|status
grant_card_status|open
grant_single_labels|preview
Your not-for-profit organization can get up to $1 million in funding over 5 years for projects that help under-represented groups (youth, women, Indigenous peoples and persons with disabilities) pursue entrepreneurship, leadership and careers in agricultu
grant_single_labels|projects
The AgriDiversity Program supports projects aimed at helping Indigenous Peoples and other underrepresented and marginalized groups in Canadian agriculture to fully participate in the sector by addressing key issues and barriers they face. This includes enhancing business management skills, promoting career opportunities in agriculture, and empowering these groups for sector participation.
- Engaging, training, and empowering underrepresented and marginalized groups
- Increasing Indigenous community involvement in the sector
- Enhancing entrepreneurial capacity and business skills
- Promoting career opportunities in agriculture
grant_single|admissibleProjectsExample
$176,000
Provide agricultural business training for Indigenous women
$160,000
Provide business management training to Indigenous youth's agricultural sector
$200,000
Develop a farm management software for women entrepreneurs in agriculture
$144,000
Establish an agricultural mentorship program for youth
$120,000
Organize an agriculture career fair for underrepresented groups
$240,000
Launch a career development program in agriculture for persons with disabilities
grant_single_labels|admissibility
Eligibility for this grant is determined by specific requirements related to the applicant's ability to address program objectives and participate in cost-sharing.
- The applicant must be part of or work directly with underrepresented and marginalized groups in the Canadian agriculture sector, including Indigenous Peoples.
- The applicant must engage in projects that support diversity and inclusion in agriculture and agri-food sector participation.
- The applicant must contribute a minimum of 30% towards eligible project costs, with in-kind contributions not exceeding 25% of total eligible costs.
- The applicant must align with program objectives to enhance public perception of agriculture, promote sector opportunities, and build capacity within marginalized communities.
- It is advised that applicants confirm eligibility of in-kind contributions with AAFC program staff early in the application process.
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply
Eligibility criteria for the AgriDiversity Program are specifically aimed at projects that support underrepresented and marginalized groups in Canadian agriculture, such as Indigenous Peoples, women, youth, persons with disabilities, racialized persons, visible minorities, 2SLGBTQI+ communities, and official language minority communities. The goal is to enable these groups to fully participate in the agriculture sector by addressing key issues and barriers.
grant_eligibility_criteria|eligible_expenses
This grant offers support for projects aiming to involve Indigenous Peoples and other underrepresented communities in Canadian agriculture. Eligible activities focus on education, empowerment, and sector leadership development.
- Projects that engage, train, and empower underrepresented and marginalized groups in the agriculture and agri-food sector.
- Activities promoting careers in agriculture to enhance public perception of the sector.
- Initiatives that prepare marginalized groups to manage business transformation and adapt to changes in agriculture operations.
- Efforts to strengthen leadership skills and entrepreneurial capacity for these communities in the agriculture sector.
- Programs that facilitate knowledge sharing, best practices, and industry experience among marginalized groups.
- Initiatives supporting the active involvement of Indigenous communities in agriculture as part of reconciliation efforts.
- Methods that promote business management strategies and tools for the target groups to enhance economic growth in agriculture.
grant_eligibility_criteria|zone
The grant covers expenses directly supporting activities that strengthen Canada's agriculture sector through the involvement of marginalized and underrepresented groups.
- Costs of training and development programs for improving business management strategies and tools.
- Expenses related to enhancing entrepreneurial capacity and business skills.
- Fees for expertise or consultancy aimed at leadership skills development and sector participation.
- Costs for facilitating the sharing of industry experiences and best practices.
grant_single_labels|criteria
There are evaluation and selection criteria for this grant. The criteria include:
- Demonstrated need and benefit to underrepresented and marginalized groups
- Clear project plan and objectives
- Credibility and capacity to carry out the project
- Engagement with Indigenous Peoples and other underrepresented communities
- Potential for sector participation and economic growth
grant_single_labels|register
- Step 1: Check Eligibility
- Review the program's eligibility criteria to ensure your organization qualifies for the grant.
- Step 2: Prepare Documentation
- Gather all necessary documents, including proof of eligibility, detailed project proposals, lists of expected outcomes, and financial statements.
- Prepare a budget that outlines the total project costs and aligns with the program's cost-sharing policy.
- Step 3: Plan the Application
- Contact AAFC program staff early in the process to confirm the eligibility and valuation of any in-kind contributions.
- Step 4: Complete Application Form
- Fill out the application form required by the AAFC, ensuring all sections are complete and accurate.
- Include details about how the project aligns with the program objectives and addresses key issues in the agriculture sector.
- Step 5: Submit Application
- Submit your application through the prescribed channel as indicated by the AAFC program guidelines before the deadline.
- Step 6: Post-Submission
- Wait for confirmation of receipt from AAFC.
- Retain any confirmation numbers or communication for your records.
grant_single_labels|otherInfo
Here are additional relevant details for this grant:
- The program provides non-repayable contributions to strengthen Canada's agriculture sector.
- Cost-sharing contributions: AAFC covers up to 70% and applicants must cover at least 30% of eligible costs.
- In-kind contributions can constitute up to 25% of the total eligible costs.
- Applicants are encouraged to contact AAFC early to ensure eligibility and valuation of in-kind contributions.
Apply to this program
Empowering Diversity in Canadian Agriculture
The AgriDiversity Program offers substantial financial support aimed at empowering Indigenous Peoples and other marginalized groups to actively participate in Canada’s agricultural sector. This initiative fosters inclusivity and mitigates barriers, enhancing entrepreneurial potential and leadership skills within these communities.
Transforming Agriculture Through Inclusive Opportunities
Launched under the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership, the AgriDiversity Program commits $5 million to bolster inclusivity in agriculture, emphasizing support for Indigenous Peoples, women, youth, persons with disabilities, racialized individuals, visible minorities, and the 2SLGBTQI+ communities. While the program's current intake is closed, future opportunities for the 2026-2028 program years will open in December 2024, paving the way for new endeavors that align with its objectives.
The program specifically aims to dismantle barriers faced by underrepresented groups by providing resources and support to develop business acumen and leadership abilities. Projects funded by this grant strive to reflect the rich diversity of Canada, enhancing public perceptions and creating more robust agricultural engagement across demographics.
Structured to assist activities that highlight career benefits in agriculture, the AgriDiversity Program encourages underrepresented communities to pursue agricultural careers, addressing the critical need for workforce diversification. By funding endeavors up to $200,000 annually, with a maximum of $1 million over five years, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) ensures substantial backing for projects designed to integrate these groups into every facet of the agricultural landscape.
A key feature of the program is cost-sharing, where eligible projects are funded by up to 70% from AAFC, with the remaining 30% covered by applicants through cash or in-kind contributions. This model ensures a collaborative approach where both parties are invested in the project’s success. In-kind contributions, which can constitute up to 25% of the total eligible costs, must demonstrate tangible value and be essential to project activities, fostering a commitment to authenticity and necessity in project financing.
These initiatives not only aim to prepare Indigenous Peoples and marginalized groups for better engagement in the agriculture sector but also align with the broader governmental objectives of reconciliation and inclusive economic growth. By enhancing entrepreneurial capacity and sector leadership, the AgriDiversity Program aspires to integrate new perspectives into agricultural dialogues and operations, making room for innovative solutions and adaptable strategies in the face of regulatory and market challenges.
Moreover, the program’s focus extends to sharing industry knowledge and best practices, facilitating a transformative learning environment where diverse voices can contribute to dynamic agricultural development. The inclusion of a broader range of views and experiences is set to strengthen Canada’s agricultural sector, ensuring it not only embraces diversity but thrives on it.
Through support for projects that resonate with its inclusive pillars, the AgriDiversity Program acts as a vector for positive change, demonstrating a commitment to a future where all Canadians, regardless of background, have equal opportunities to excel and influence the agricultural field. This endeavor not only addresses current demographics but strategically positions the agricultural sector for sustainable growth by investing in the potential of its most underrepresented players.
