Communities across Manitoba are set to benefit from over $6 million in new funding aimed at strengthening the province’s food processing industry and supporting local jobs, thanks to a joint investment from the federal and provincial governments.
Announced Wednesday by Heath MacDonald, the federal Agriculture and Agri-Food Minister, and Manitoba Agriculture Minister Ron Kostyshyn, the funding is part of the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (CAP). The five-year initiative will support innovation and growth in the agriculture and food sectors.
“When we invest in food processors, we’re helping them grow, stay competitive and ensure they can keep putting their high-quality food on tables here in Canada and around the world,” says Minister MacDonald. “These projects will help build a stronger, more resilient food system while supporting good jobs in the process.”
A total of 19 Manitoba-based food processors have been approved for funding. The support will help businesses upgrade equipment, expand facilities, and introduce new technologies aimed at boosting efficiency, increasing production, and improving environmental sustainability.
“These investments support our economy, strengthen our communities, and ensure sustainable food security for generations,” Minister Kostyshyn explains. “By enhancing our local food infrastructure, we help to create jobs, reduce our carbon footprint, and foster a resilient food system that benefits everyone.”
Several rural communities across Manitoba are set to benefit from these investments. In Blumenort, Jowett Farms Corporation will upgrade its refrigeration systems and increase line speed. River Valley Specialty Farms Inc. in Bagot is installing a high-accuracy sorter for improved processing. In Altona, Buffalo Creek Mills plans to double its oat-flaking capacity, while Prairie Fava Ltd. in Glenboro will expand its storage facilities to meet growing demand. Additionally, Prairie Flour Mills Ltd. in Elie will enhance its grain-receiving operations.
Large employers are also taking notice. Dennis Organ, president of pork operations at Maple Leaf Foods, expressed gratitude for the funding, noting it will be used to modernize the company’s pork facility in Brandon.
“This investment will help us modernize with state-of-the-art equipment, improving reliability, efficiency, and production quality,” Organ notes. “It positions us to increase processing capacity, create new jobs, and strengthen Canada’s food system while meeting growing consumer demand.”
The Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership is a $3.5 billion initiative between the federal, provincial, and territorial governments. Of that, $2.5 billion is delivered through cost-shared programs designed at the local level to respond to regional needs.
To learn more about the program and future funding opportunities, residents and business owners can visit www.manitoba.ca/scap.
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