On-Farm Efficiency Program
AB, Canada
Support Alberta producers in achieving environmental sustainability through improved resource efficiency and reduced emissions
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- grant_single|timelineUnspecified
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Grant and Funding
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- Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
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- Government of Alberta
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grant_card_status|open
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The On-Farm Efficiency Program (OFEP) aims to help agricultural producers enhance environmental sustainability by improving the efficient use of agricultural inputs, reducing emissions, and minimizing chemical runoff. Eligible activities include adopting smart farm technologies, energy-efficient practices, farm security improvements, and efficient grain handling methods. Each applicant can receive a maximum of $150,000, with specific caps for different program streams like $50,000 for Smart Farm Technology and $100,000 for Efficient Grain Handling.
grant_single_labels|projects
Yes, there are eligible projects or activities for this grant. The On-Farm Efficiency Program (OFEP) supports various initiatives aimed at improving environmental sustainability in agricultural operations.
- Smart Farm Technology
- Energy Efficiency
- Farm Security
- Efficient Grain Handling
grant_single_labels|admissibility
To be eligible for the On-Farm Efficiency Program, applicants must meet several criteria related to their role in agricultural operation and must have a current Environmental Farm Plan. Additional specific conditions also apply.
- Primary producer responsible for the day-to-day management of an agricultural operation (such as an annual crop, bee, or livestock operation) in Alberta that produces at least $25,000 worth of farm commodities annually
- Responsible for input costs for that operation
- Not a landlord whose only interest in the operation is ownership
- Approved Indigenous applicants (First Nation, Métis Nation, Inuit)
- Must have a current Environmental Farm Plan (EFP) certificate or letter of completion, or be able to receive one to submit with their final report
- To be valid, the EFP must have been completed within the 10 years prior to the date the proposal is received
grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply
Eligible applicants for the On-Farm Efficiency Program are primarily producers responsible for agricultural operations in Alberta and must meet certain criteria. Here is a summarized list of the eligible types of applicants:
- Primary producers responsible for day-to-day management of an agricultural operation (annual crop, bee, or livestock) in Alberta producing at least $25,000 worth of farm commodities annually
- Applicants responsible for the input costs of the operation
- Approved Indigenous applicants (First Nation, Métis Nation, Inuit)
- Applicants with a current Environmental Farm Plan (EFP) certificate or letter of completion valid within the last 10 years
grant_eligibility_criteria|eligible_expenses
The On-Farm Efficiency Program has eligible expenses designed to support producers improving their environmental sustainability practices. Eligible items are organized by the program's four streams.
- Smart Farm Technology
- Energy Efficiency
- Farm Security
- Efficient Grain Handling
grant_eligibility_criteria|zone
The eligible geographic zone for this grant is Alberta, Canada.
- Primary producers responsible for day-to-day management of an agricultural operation in Alberta
- Operations must produce at least $25,000 worth of farm commodities annually
- Approved Indigenous applicants (First Nation, Métis Nation, Inuit) in Alberta
grant_single_labels|criteria
The On-Farm Efficiency Program (OFEP) evaluates and selects applications on a case-by-case basis according to the eligibility criteria and funding availability. The determination of payment under this program is also dependent on the submission of a completed application, albeit without a guarantee of funding.
- Eligibility of the applicant (Primary producer responsible for an agricultural operation in Alberta)
- Production of at least $25,000 worth of farm commodities annually
- Responsibility for input costs of the operation
- Not being a landlord whose only interest is ownership
- Approved Indigenous applicants (First Nation, Métis Nation, Inuit)
- Possession of a current Environmental Farm Plan (EFP) certificate or letter of completion
- Compliance with eligible and non-eligible expenses as detailed in the OFEP Funding List
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- Step 1: Check your eligibility
- Determine whether you are eligible by reviewing the OFEP Terms and Conditions.
- Confirm that the proposed purchases are eligible. Eligible items are listed in the OFEP Funding List.
- Step 2: Complete application form
- Review the OFEP Application Quick Tips and OFEP Comprehensive Application Guide to ensure your application is completed correctly.
- Complete and sign the OFEP Application Form.
- Step 3: Submit application form
- Completed application forms and supporting documents can be submitted by email or mail. Email is strongly preferred. However, in cases where email is not possible, mailed applications will be accepted.
- Email: Send PDF applications to: [email protected]. Ensure the application form is in the fillable PDF format when submitted. A separate signature page can be manually signed, scanned and attached.
- Mail: Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership, On-Farm Efficiency Program Alberta Agriculture and Irrigation Suite 303, 7000 113 Street NW Edmonton, Alberta T6H 5T6
grant_single_labels|otherInfo
The On-Farm Efficiency Program aims to enhance environmental benefits by improving the efficient use of agricultural inputs, with a focus on funding eligible projects through a cost-sharing mechanism.
- Maximum funding per applicant is $150,000 for the program term (2024-2028).
- Eligible expenses are cost-shared at 50% grant and 50% applicant.
- Environmental Farm Plan (EFP) certificate or letter is required.
- Applicants have to manage day-to-day agricultural operations in Alberta producing at least $25,000 worth of farm commodities annually.
- Funding is reviewed on a case-by-case basis and subject to availability.
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403-742-7901
Apply to this program
On-Farm Efficiency Program (OFEP) Overview
The On-Farm Efficiency Program (OFEP) aims to support Alberta producers in improving the efficient use of agricultural inputs, thereby contributing to environmental sustainability through practices such as reducing emissions and minimizing chemical runoff. The program offers funding to primary producers for implementing technologies and practices that enhance resource efficiency and environmental stewardship.
Explaining the On-Farm Efficiency Program (OFEP)
The On-Farm Efficiency Program (OFEP) is a significant initiative aimed at fostering environmental sustainability within the agricultural sector of Alberta. Launched to provide financial support to primary producers, the program helps them adopt efficient technologies and practices that reduce environmental impact. This detailed explanation will guide you through the various aspects of the OFEP, including eligibility criteria, funding limits, eligible items, and the application process.
Objectives of the On-Farm Efficiency Program (OFEP)
The principal objective of the OFEP is to support agricultural producers in Alberta by helping them achieve environmental benefits through the efficient use of agricultural inputs. The program aims to:
- Reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
- Minimize chemical runoff into water bodies.
- Promote the efficient use of natural resources such as water and energy.
By adopting new, commercially available technologies that have proven successful in Alberta, producers can significantly contribute to environmental sustainability while enhancing the profitability of their operations.
Program Details
The OFEP offers funding to eligible applicants based on certain criteria. Here's a detailed breakdown:
Funding Structure
- Limited Funding: The program operates with limited funding, and applications are reviewed on a case-by-case basis according to eligibility criteria and funding availability. Submission of an application does not guarantee payment.
- Maximum Funding: The overall maximum funding per applicant is $150,000 over the duration of the program term (2024-2028).
- Minimum Funding: The minimum grant per application is $500.
- Streams and Maximums: Funding is divided into four streams:
- Smart Farm Technology: $50,000
- Energy Efficiency: $50,000
- Farm Security: $2,000
- Efficient Grain Handling: $100,000
- Cost-sharing: Eligible expenses are cost-shared at 50% grant and 50% applicant.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the OFEP, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Primary Producer: Must be responsible for the day-to-day management of an agricultural operation (e.g., annual crop, bee, or livestock operation) in Alberta that produces at least $25,000 worth of farm commodities annually. This excludes landlords whose only interest is ownership.
- Responsible for Input Costs: The applicant must bear the costs for the operation.
- Approved Indigenous Applicants: Indigenous groups such as First Nation, Métis Nation, and Inuit are eligible.
- Environmental Farm Plan (EFP): A current EFP certificate or letter of completion must be submitted. The EFP must have been completed within the last 10 years prior to the proposal submission. If an EFP is not already completed, the applicant must be able to receive a certificate or letter to submit with the final report.
Eligible Items and Expenses
Eligible items are organized into the program’s four streams. Applicants should refer to the OFEP Funding List for detailed information on eligible and non-eligible expenses. Some eligible items have a maximum grant. Compliance with the funding list ensures that purchases align with the objectives of the program and qualify for reimbursement.
Before You Apply
Given the limited funding available each fiscal year, funding approval is not guaranteed. Here are steps to ensure your application is prepared correctly:
- Review your eligibility by reading the OFEP Terms and Conditions.
- Confirm that the proposed purchases are eligible by checking the OFEP Funding List.
Reimbursement Requirements
If your application is approved, the following documentation is required for reimbursement:
- Invoices with the legal name stated on the application.
- Invoices dated after April 1, 2023.
- Proof of payment (e.g., processed cheque, credit card statement) matching the legal name on the application.
- Official company vouchers and proof of payment for any cash payments.
Transactions involving barter, exchange, or between related persons are not eligible for reimbursement.
How to Apply
To apply for the OFEP, follow these steps:
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria by thoroughly reviewing the OFEP Terms and Conditions. Verify that your proposed purchases are eligible items listed in the OFEP Funding List.
Step 2: Complete the Application Form
To expedite processing time, follow the OFEP Application Quick Tips and Comprehensive Application Guide to complete your application correctly. Then, fill out and sign the OFEP Application Form.
Step 3: Submit the Application Form
Submit your completed application and supporting documents via email or mail:
- Email: Send PDF applications to [email protected]. Ensure the form is in the fillable PDF format. Attach a manually signed, scanned signature page if necessary.
- Mail: Send applications to:Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership, On-Farm Efficiency Program
- Alberta Agriculture and Irrigation
- Suite 303, 7000 113 Street NW
- Edmonton, Alberta T6H 5T6
What Happens Next
Upon submitting your application, you will receive an automatic email response confirming receipt if submitted via email. For mailed or faxed applications, confirmation will be sent via telephone or email. If additional information is required, you will be notified and asked to submit the missing details.
Application processing is underway, and while an estimated timeline for approval is not available, applicants will be informed of their application status as soon as possible. Patience is appreciated during this review period.
Resources
The OFEP team provides several resources to assist applicants:
- OFEP Fact Sheet
- OFEP Terms and Conditions
- OFEP Funding List
- OFEP Application Form
- OFEP Application Quick Tips
- OFEP Comprehensive Application Guide
- OFEP Application PDF Troubleshooting
- OFEP Sample Approval Letter
- OFEP Grant Terms
- Ministerial Grants Regulation
Contact Information
For additional support or inquiries, contact the OFEP team:
Hours: 8:15 am to 4:30 pm (Monday to Friday, closed on statutory holidays)
Toll free: 310-FARM (3276) (within Alberta)
Phone: 403-742-7901 (outside Alberta)
Email: [email protected]
The On-Farm Efficiency Program (OFEP) is an essential initiative for promoting environmental sustainability within Alberta's agricultural sector. By understanding the program's objectives, funding structure, eligibility criteria, and application process, producers can effectively apply for grants that support the adoption of resource-efficient technologies and practices, ultimately benefiting both their operations and the environment.
