The federal and provincial governments are investing $25 million to expand production capacity and improve energy efficiency in the agriculture and food sector.
The Agri-Tech Innovative Initiative will allow farmers and processors to invest in technology, equipment, or processes that will help achieve that.
"We always want to keep Ontario farmers and processors leading by example and I feel this program does just that," said Lisa Thompson, Ontario Minister of Agriculture, Food, and Rural Affairs and Huron-Bruce MPP.
The hope is down the line, it will help save consumers some money.
"The Agri-Tech Innovative Initiative is all about driving efficiencies and greater production for both farmers and processors," said Thompson. "What does that translate into? That translates into better cost of production, and ultimately, that will have a positive impact across the entire value chain."
The program will focus on awareness over the next few months, and will start accepting applications on February 15, 2024. Thompson said the Agricultural Adaption Council will handle the process on behalf of the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA).
Projects up to $100,000 will be eligible for a cost-share up to 50 per cent. Bigger projects will be eligible for a 35 per cent cost-share, up to $100,000.
