How much funding can be received?

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

This grant is specifically available to primary producers managing agricultural operations within Alberta. Eligibility is tied to the geographical requirement of operating within this Canadian province.

Producers engaged in agricultural activities in Alberta, Canada.

grant_single_labels|admissibility

Eligibility for this grant is determined by specific criteria related to the applicant's role and operational activities in agriculture.

The applicant must be a primary producer responsible for day-to-day management of an agricultural operation in Alberta.
The operation must produce at least $25,000 worth of farm commodities annually.
The applicant must be responsible for the input costs of the operation.
The applicant must not be a landlord whose only interest in the operation is ownership.
Indigenous applicants, such as First Nation, Métis Nation, and Inuit, are eligible to apply.
The applicant must have a current Environmental Farm Plan (EFP) certificate or letter of completion, or be able to acquire an EFP certificate or letter to submit with their final report.

grant_eligibility_criteria|who_can_apply

Eligible applicants for the On-Farm Efficiency Program must be primary producers in Alberta who are responsible for the day-to-day management of an agricultural operation that generates at least $25,000 worth of commodities annually and are responsible for the input costs. Approved Indigenous applicants (First Nation, Métis Nation, Inuit) are also eligible. Additionally, applicants must have a current Environmental Farm Plan (EFP) certificate or a letter of completion, valid within the past 10 years.

grant_eligibility_criteria|eligible_expenses

The On-Farm Efficiency Program (OFEP) is designed to enhance environmental sustainability on farms through various efficiency improvements. Projects eligible for this grant focus on implementing new technologies that reduce emissions, minimize chemical runoff, and promote efficient resource use.

Adoption of smart farm technologies to improve farm operations and environmental impact.
Upgrading facilities for better energy efficiency, reducing overall energy consumption.
Installation of advanced systems for efficient grain handling to optimize resource use.
Enhancement of farm security measures to protect assets and improve operational resilience.

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

grant_single_labels|register

Here are the steps to submit an application for this grant:

Step 1: Check Eligibility
- Review the OFEP Terms and Conditions to determine eligibility.
- Confirm that the proposed purchases are listed as eligible in the OFEP Funding List.
Step 2: Complete Application Form
- Consult the OFEP Application Quick Tips and OFEP Comprehensive Application Guide for assistance.
- Fill out and sign the official OFEP Application Form.
Step 3: Submit Application Form
- Prepare the completed application form and all supporting documents.
- Email the application as a PDF to [email protected] for preferred submission.
- If emailing is not possible, mail the application to: Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership, On-Farm Efficiency Program, Alberta Agriculture and Irrigation, Suite 303, 7000 113 Street NW, Edmonton, Alberta T6H 5T6.
Step 4: Confirmation of Application Receipt
- After emailing, receive an automatic response if the application is received.
- For mailed applications, wait for notification via telephone or email.
- Contact the program if no confirmation is received.
Step 5: Provide Additional Information if Required
- If notified of missing information, submit additional details as requested.

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.

grant_single_labels|contact

403-742-7901

Apply to this program

Enhancing Agricultural Efficiency through Financial Support

The On-Farm Efficiency Program (OFEP) provides financial aid to agricultural producers, enabling them to adopt innovative practices that promote environmental sustainability by optimizing the use of farm inputs. It plays a pivotal role in advancing environmental goals by supporting projects aimed at reducing emissions, minimizing chemical runoff, and promoting resource efficiency.

Detailed Exploration of the On-Farm Efficiency Program (OFEP) in Alberta

The On-Farm Efficiency Program (OFEP) embarks on a strategic venture to bolster the competitiveness and environmental stewardship of Alberta's agricultural sector by incentivizing farmers to integrate cutting-edge technologies and methodologies into their daily operations. This program, commencing on August 14, 2024, delivers financial support up to $150,000 per applicant over its operational phase from 2024 to 2028, with aims to transform farming practices through its distinct funding streams, each tailored to address specific areas of enhancement.

Developed with a focus on fostering sustainable agricultural environments, the OFEP underscores the importance of innovation. By facilitating access to new technologies known for their success within Alberta's diverse agricultural landscape, the program leverages practices that significantly contribute to the ecological integrity of farm operations. This aligns with broader environmental objectives such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions, curbing chemical pollutant infiltration into ecosystems, and ensuring the prudent use of natural resources. Such priorities not only benefit the immediate farm operations but also lend long-term stability and resilience to rural communities by mitigating adverse environmental impacts.

The program is structured around four primary funding streams, offering targeted support for Smart Farm Technology, Energy Efficiency, Farm Security, and Efficient Grain Handling. Each stream is capped at respective financial limits, which encourages applicants to strategically plan project interventions that maximize benefits while adhering to defined fiscal parameters. For instance, Smart Farm Technology and Energy Efficiency streams each offer up to $50,000, while Efficient Grain Handling extends support up to $100,000, allowing a broad spectrum of technological deployments ranging from sophisticated digital farming tools to advanced energy-saving solutions.

Eligible applicants under the program must be active primary producers responsible for the hands-on management of agricultural operations, demonstrating an annual output of at least $25,000. This ensures that program beneficiaries have the requisite engagement with and influence over production activities to drive meaningful change. Moreover, the emphasis on environmentally responsible planning is upheld by requiring a current Environmental Farm Plan (EFP), underscoring a commitment to sustainable agricultural practices within the community.

The financial structure of the OFEP mandates a 50% cost-sharing mechanism, whereby successful applicants must contribute an equivalent of the grant received towards the project costs. This incentivizes careful financial planning and investment on the part of producers, ensuring that funds are judiciously allocated to maximize project outcomes. The accountability measures, including stringent reimbursement prerequisites, exemplify the program's dedication to transparent and efficient use of public funds, fostering trust and engagement among stakeholders.

Applicants are encouraged to meticulously assess their eligibility, prepare comprehensive application documentation, and adhere to the application guidelines outlined by the OFEP. As submissions are evaluated case-by-case, with limited funding available, this rigorous preparatory stage is critical for prospective applicants aiming for successful grant allocation. Assistance from comprehensive guides and fact sheets provided by the program ensures that applicants are well-supported in their pursuit of grant financing.

Overall, the On-Farm Efficiency Program is a strategic initiative that empowers the agricultural sector in Alberta to move towards more sustainable, efficient, and productive practices. Through its financial support framework, it inspires producers to embrace innovation that bridges economic goals with ecological responsibility, fostering a more sustainable agricultural future for the region.