New Funding for Agricultural Societies to Support Industry Careers

Ontario and Canada to deliver $1.7 million to grow talent in the agri-food sector

NEWS

June 17, 2023

BRUSSELS – Today, MPP Lisa Thompson announced that the governments of Canada and Ontario are investing up to $1.7 million over three years to launch the ‘Promoting Agri-Food Careers’ Initiative.

“I am pleased to see this support for Ontario agricultural societies so they can join focused efforts to increase awareness about the amazing career paths our agriculture and food sectors provide,” said Lisa Thompson, MPP for Huron Bruce. “Promoting the diversity and scope of careers in the agri-food sector is critical to developing a workforce that is adaptable to facilitate growth and advancement of Ontario’s agri-food industry. By partnering with agricultural societies, we will further support the goal outlined in our Grow Ontario Strategy to increase total agri-food sector employment by 10% by 2032.”

This two-phased initiative is being funded through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership and will provide support to agricultural societies as they seek to increase awareness and promote jobs in the agri-food industry and attract the next generation of agri-food leaders.

Sustainable CAP is a five-year (2023-2028), $3.5-billion investment by federal‐provincial and territorial governments to strengthen competitiveness, innovation, and resiliency in the agriculture, agri‐food and agri‐based products sector. This includes $1 billion in federal programs and activities and $2.5 billion in cost-shared programs and activities by federal, provincial, and territorial governments.

Quick Facts

  •  The Promoting Agri-Food Careers Initiative aligns with the province’s Grow Ontario Strategy, which includes a target of increasing total employment in the agri-food sector by 10 per cent by 2023.
  • More details on phase one of the initiative will be available soon.
  • Eligible agricultural societies may apply for funding through the annual return and grant application process beginning in November.
  • Ontario’s 213 agricultural societies are represented by the Ontario Association of Agricultural Societies. Agricultural societies encourage awareness of agriculture and promote improvements in rural quality of life. 

MEDIA CONTACTS

Sam McCormick
MPP Lisa Thompson’s Office
sam.mccormick@ontario.ca