TORONTO — In an era of supply-chain woes, the Ontario government is pumping $25 million over three years to strengthen the agri-food sector supply chain.
The money is supposed to spur projects that will enhance the province’s food security by boosting processing capacity, industry competitiveness and resilience against future disruptions.
Set for launch next spring, the Strategic Agri-Food Processing Fund will provide grants of up to $3 million to agri-food processing businesses to invest in capital, equipment and technology.
“This strategic investment will not only boost capacity and competitiveness in Ontario’s agri-food processing sector, but it will also position the sector for long-term growth, create jobs, and promote economic opportunities for rural communities,” Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs Minister Lisa Thompson said.
“Workers in the agri-food sector have kept our supply chains strong through the pandemic, and Ontario’s agricultural and agri-food sector will play an important role in our province’s recovery and prosperity,” Finance Minister Peter Bethlenfalvy said. “This funding will go a long way toward ensuring this essential sector is more efficient, competitive and resilient against future disruptions.”
