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Alberta highlights new funding opportunities

Alberta highlighted two programs currently accepting applications and funded under the Canadian Agricultural Partnership (CAP) – a farm technology program and a new value-add program for on-farm investments.

For both program, producers must have a minimum of $25,000 in annual commercial production revenue.

Farm Technology Program

The Farm Technology Program supports the adoption of innovative technology that minimizes agricultural waste, optimizes farm efficiency, and encourages the adoption of best management practices in farm security.

This program provides financial incentives on new technologies that are commercially available and already demonstrated under Alberta conditions. To be eligible for funding, the program targets technology that is proven, but not yet widely adopted within an applicant’s farm type.

This two-year pilot phase (2021 to 2023) of the Farm Technology Program is focused on sensors that contribute to farm data systems, and technology-based security devices, and supports producers in protecting their businesses through the adoption of best management practices in farm security.

Also eligible are devices that boost internet coverage on the farm, as well as monitoring cameras for rural security.

Eligible expenses will be costs shared 50:50 up to a maximum of $48,000 for the Farm Technology Stream or up to $2,000 for the  Farm Security Stream. The maximum grant an applicant can receive from the program is $50,000 over the Program Term (April 2021 to March 2023).

New value-add program

The On-Farm Value-added Program supports economic recovery through investment in projects, company sales growth, market expansion and the creation of jobs in Alberta. This program is designed exclusively for primary producers who are adding value past primary production.

Farmers and ranchers can apply for funding to improve food safety, expand food processing production, and develop new products.

For example, funding can be put towards:

• Buying processing or food safety equipment
• Developing and implementing a food-safety system
• Designing consumer labels and packages
• First-time brand design and development
• Feasibility studies
• Marketing and export plans
• Developing an initial online presence

Applications for the on-farm value add program will close July 12, 2021.

The Canadian Agricultural Partnership is a 5-year, $3 billion federal-provincial-territorial investment in the agriculture, agri-food and agri-based products sector that began in April, 2018. In Alberta, it represents a federal-provincial investment of $406 million in strategic programs and initiatives for the agricultural sector.

To apply for either program, visit https://cap.alberta.ca/CAP/