Provincial, federal governments supporting new farmers

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — New and small-scale farmers will have the chance to grow their businesses with the launch of the New Entrant Farm Business Accelerator Program.

Farmers can apply for the first phase of the program, which, according to the provincial and federal governments, provides support for business planning and a growth strategy.

The second phase will support implementing that strategy and includes funding for on-farm infrastructure and equipment, such as greenhouses, tractors and irrigation systems.

A new entrant farm business is a farm that has not reported farm income for more than five years.

According to the federal and provincial agriculture ministries, the new program is an update to the Small Farm Business Acceleration Pilot Program launched in 2020, which supported over 60 farmers.

The program is receiving $600,000 through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership, a five-year, $3.5 billion investment by federal, provincial and territorial governments to strengthen the agricultural, agrifood and agriculture-based products sector.

This includes $1 billion in federal programs and activities and a $2.5 billion commitment to programs designed and delivered by provinces and territories.

Applications are being accepted until November 30th or until funds are fully allocated.

Applicants who complete Phase 1 are eligible to apply for Phase 2 funding.

For more information on the New Entrant Farm Business Accelerator Program, visit the Government of B.C.’s website.