Perennial Crop Development Establishment

Who is eligible?

This grant supports a diverse group of recipients to aid the development and efficiency of perennial crops, ensuring inclusive participation from various sectors of society.

• Mi’kmaq First Nations and other Indigenous groups.
• Agricultural producers.
• Small to medium-sized agri-businesses.
• Agriculture industry organizations, clubs, and associations.
• Agricultural co-ops.
• Others may be considered upon request.

Who is not eligible

This grant excludes certain activities and industries that do not align with its objectives. The restrictions aim to concentrate support on sectors providing ecological and economic benefits.

• Companies involved in forage/fodder crops production.
• Businesses focusing on land clearing and drainage projects.
• Organizations engaged in lowbush blueberry production land clearing activities.
• Entities primarily conducting aquaponic or aquaculture activities, including seaweed, fish, and seafood production and processing.
• Businesses seeking to support normal and ongoing maintenance activities.
• Companies involved in activities providing tax credits or rebates.
• Businesses in the development and enforcement of regulations.

Eligible expenses

The Perennial Crop Development Program offers support for activities focused on the establishment and enhancement of perennial crop practices. These initiatives are geared towards improving ecological and economic sustainability in agriculture.

• Establishment and expansion of perennial crops, including purchasing and installing plants and wind resilient trellises.
• Use of exclusion netting, weed control barriers, and mulch for perennial crops.
• Planting seed for orchard or vineyard ground cover.
• Adoption or evaluation of leading-edge production technologies to reduce costs or improve quality.
• Development of storage and processing systems for perennial crops, including related technology.
• Capital equipment purchases for perennial crop processes.
• Adapting existing structures for cold storage, including adding insulation and refrigeration.
• Implementation of controlled atmosphere storage solutions.

Eligible geographic areas

This grant is specific to the agriculture sector in Prince Edward Island, Canada. Companies and organizations located in Prince Edward Island are eligible to apply.

• Organizations operating within Prince Edward Island (PEI), Canada.

The evaluation and selection of projects for the Perennial Crop Development Program are based on criteria that ensure both ecological and economic benefits.

• Demonstrable ecological and economic benefits.
• Detailed project descriptions and anticipated outcomes.
• Projects assessed on a first come-first serve basis for merit and impact.
• Applications completed and submitted with all required documentation.
• Potential for regional collaboration across more than one Atlantic province.

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

• Step 1: Review Guidelines
  • Familiarize yourself with the Perennial Crop Development Program guidelines and eligible expenses.
  • Ensure your project aligns with the program's goals and requirements.
• Step 2: Gather Supporting Documents
  • Provide proof of land ownership or a long-term lease agreement if applicable.
  • Prepare a detailed description of the project, expected outcomes, and ecological benefits.
• Step 3: Complete Application Form
  • Fill out the application form with all required information including contact details and project specifics.
  • Include any necessary appendices, such as the proposed site assessment or trellis design.
• Step 4: Submit Application
  • Email your completed application to perennial@gov.pe.ca with the program name in the subject line.
  • Alternatively, send your application via regular mail to the PEI Department of Agriculture at the given address.
• Step 5: Retain Confirmation
  • Ensure you receive a confirmation of submission for your application.
  • Keep this confirmation for your records.

Here are additional relevant details for this grant:

• Applicants are encouraged to contact the PEI Department of Agriculture for support required for site assessment and development.
• Projects demonstrating benefits and impacts to more than one Atlantic province may be eligible for regional funding.
• Projects with links to increasing public trust may be eligible for additional project funding.
• A complete evaluation of the program is planned to assess its objectives and results.
• Necessary documentation for claims process includes a claim form, paid invoices, a project report, and copies or photos of produced materials.
• The maximum funding per recipient is $100,000 over the life of the Sustainable CAP Framework Agreement (2023-2028).
• Accepted projects must be completed within the timeframe outlined in the funding agreement.
• In the event of exceeding program demand, funding may be pro-rated by the Department.