$30 Million Local Food Fund Open for Applications

by staff, Sept, 19, 2013

A new $30 million dollar local food fund was announced this past Monday at a press conference hosted by FoodShare. The Organic Council of Ontario was among the audience members at the breakfast announcement. The fund, which is now accepting applications, will be delivered as a three year investment by the province designed to support innovative local food projects, celebrate local food and stimulate economic growth, creating more jobs in the local food sector.

The fund is a key component of a broader provincial strategy aimed at increasing awareness of and demand for foods grown and made in Ontario. The yet be passed  “Local Food Act” introduced earlier this year, is the other main part of this strategy.

“Supporting local food does so much for Ontario,” said Wynne at Monday’s press conference. “We are committed to working with our industry partners to increase the demand for local food, which will feed local economies across the province. By supporting partnerships and innovation, this fund will make sure more people benefit from the good things that grow in Ontario.”

The Fund will support projects in four categories:

1. Regional and Local Food Networks
2. Enhanced Technologies, Capacity and/or Minor Capital
3. Research and Best Practices
4. Education, Marketing and Outreach

More information about how to apply including a comprehensive guidebook about the fund can be found at The Ontario Ministry of Agriculture and Food website.