
Turn to excellence!
Last Update: July 30, 2025
QC, Canada
Recognizing excellence among young, innovative agricultural entrepreneurs
At a glance
Eligible Funding
- From $2,000 to $7,000
Timeline
- Open Date : February 1, 2025
- Closing date : April 30, 2025
Financing Type
Grant and Funding
Eligible Industries
- Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting
Funds Providers
Unspecified
Program status
Closed
Overview
The "Turn to Excellence!" grant awards up to $7,000 to recognize young agricultural producers in Quebec who demonstrate outstanding management skills, leadership, innovation, and sustainability achievements. The program supports activities such as sustainable development, mentorship, and entrepreneurial excellence in agriculture.
Financing terms and conditions
- $7,000 awarded to the grand prize winner.
- $3,500 awarded to each of the two laureates.
- $2,000 awarded to the candidate who stands out in sustainable development.
- $2,000 awarded to the candidate recognized for exceptional mentorship or guidance, provided by FIRA.
- A $150 gift voucher for CRAAQ products or training is offered to each eligible participant.
Activities funded
- Recognition and promotion of outstanding achievements in agricultural entrepreneurship.
- Encouragement of leadership and innovation within the agriculture sector.
- Support for sustainable development initiatives in agricultural businesses.
- Promotion of mentorship and support networks in agriculture.
Examples of admissible projects:
$ 6,900
Implementing field sensor technology for soil health assessment
$ 6,950
Piloting biodegradable mulch films in organic vegetable farming
$ 6,900
Setting up drip irrigation to improve greenhouse efficiency
$ 6,500
Developing farm composting program for sustainable waste reduction
$ 7,000
Launching mentorship program for young sheep farmers
$ 6,700
Hosting leadership workshops for new fruit growers
Eligibility
- The applicant must be an agricultural producer or agricultural producer-processor.
- The applicant must be at least 18 years old and under 40 years old as of April 30, 2025.
- The applicant must hold at least 20% ownership of their business for a minimum of two years, whether by joining, taking over, or creating a new enterprise.
- The applicant must have received, or have confirmation of receiving, part-time or full-time support under the Financial Support Program for Agricultural Succession.
Who is eligible?
- Agricultural producers
- Agricultural producer-processors
Eligible geographic areas
- Quebec
Selection criteria
- Demonstrated excellence in agricultural management and business achievements.
- Leadership and capacity to serve as an inspiring role model in the agricultural sector.
- Innovation exhibited within the business or project.
- Commitment to sustainable development practices.
- Significant involvement in mentorship or guidance within the agricultural community.
How to apply
1
Verify competition registration period
- Check annually if the registration period is open (usually from February to April)
- Visit the official competition page to verify current edition details
2
Confirm eligibility criteria
- Ensure you are an agricultural producer or producer-processor
- Be at least 18 years old and under 40 years old by April 30
- Hold at least 20% of your business shares for a minimum of two years
- Have joined, taken over, or founded a business
- Have received the financial support program confirmation or grant
3
Prepare application documents
- Prepare required documents demonstrating your managerial qualities and achievements
- Gather proof of shareholding and program participation
- Highlight contributions in excellence, leadership, innovation, sustainability, or mentoring
4
Submit your application
- Submit your complete application through the designated platform or procedure during the registration period
- Ensure all sections are filled and documents attached
5
Await results and updates
- Wait for the evaluation of your application and the official announcement of finalists and winners
- Check the official site for any updates or additional information requested
Additional information
- Five scholarships are awarded annually to outstanding young agricultural entrepreneurs.
- A $150 gift certificate for CRAAQ products or training is given to each eligible participant.
- The application period typically runs from February to April each year.
- The competition is organized by La Financière agricole du Québec in collaboration with CRAAQ.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Turn to excellence! Program
Here are answers to the most common questions about the Turn to excellence!. This section explains what the program is, how much funding is available, eligibility requirements, application deadlines, and other important details to help you determine if this grant is right for your business.
What is the Turn to excellence!?
How much funding can be received?
What is the deadline to apply?
Is the Turn to excellence! a grant, loan, or tax credit?
Who are the financial supporters of the Turn to excellence!?
Who is eligible for the Turn to excellence! program?
Who can I contact for more information about the Turn to excellence!?
Where is the Turn to excellence! available?
Are startups eligible for the Turn to excellence! program?
Are youth (under 40) eligible for the Turn to excellence! program?

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