Provincial, federal governments looking to support Indigenous in Agriculture

The Manitoban and Canadian governments are hoping to provide Indigenous people with opportunities in the agriculture and agri-food sectors.

The announcement was made on July 31st by federal Agriculture and Agri-Food Minister Lawrence MacAulay and Manitoba Agriculture Minister Derek Johnson. The governments will be using the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (CAP) to provide funding for initiatives that either address barriers or enhance opportunities.

"Ensuring Indigenous communities and organizations are equipped with the agricultural knowledge, skills and technology to increase their participation in the agricultural economy is critical," says MacAulay. "We recognize that Indigenous communities have diverse and unique realities and the flexibility of the programs announced today reflect that diversity. Fostering relationships and working in partnership with Indigenous Peoples will support inclusive growth of the agri-food sector and contribute to economic reconciliation."

Sustainable CAP funds will be put toward projects that achieve one of the four streams, including consulting activities, training activities, enhancing Indigenous food system activities, and capital equipment and software activities.

Johnson is expecting projects to vary greatly and be specific to the individual community's needs.

""Food security and sovereignty are critical, and these funding streams will empower communities in developing food systems solutions that enhance access to affordable and nutritious food while increasing economic opportunities through sustainable and culturally respectful methods," says Johnson. "Our government is addressing barriers to Indigenous participation in agriculture and agri-food with funding to improve access to training and capacity-building, capital investments, food system development and expansion, agriculture planning, and increasing youth involvement."

The program is currently accepting applications and will close on October 27th.

For the full press release from the government of Manitoba, click here.