Growing Forward 2 Programing Launched in Ontario
By Amanda Brodhagen, Farms.com
Growing Forward 2 (GF2), an agricultural policy framework that operates in partnership with the federal and provincial government was officially launched April 1, but its programing portion for Ontario was only made available as of Wednesday, June 26.
GF2 project applications for funding are accessible for producers, processors and organizations. Organizations may apply immediately, while producers and processors will have to wait until fall to be qualified to submit an application.
“The new Growing Forward 2 programs will help Ontario’s agri-food industry continue to grow and innovate. By working together, we can make this strong industry even stronger,” said Kathleen Wynne, Ontario Premier and Minister of Agriculture and Food.
The federal and provincial governments’ joint investment amounts to $417-million for programming initiatives aimed at supporting innovation and market development opportunities. Producer risk management programs will continue under G2 policy framework.
“Agriculture is a major contributor to a healthy economy in Ontario and across Canada. These Growing Forward 2 programs will ensure that Ontario farmers and food processors have the tools they need to remain competitive and innovative in new and existing markets,” said Gerry Ritz, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada.