The number of woman sole proprietorships in Canada is on the rise, so it is good to see the Government support women and others to promote diversity in the agriculture sector.
Canada and Ontario are investing up to $1.5 million in the Agricultural Workforce Equity and Diversity Initiative (AWEDI). This initiative, funded through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP), aims to foster diversity within the agri-food sector. It provides grants of up to $100,000 to support business ventures led by Indigenous peoples, visible minorities, 2SLGBTQI+ people, persons with disabilities, youth, women, or members of French linguistic minority communities.
AWEDI invites applications from various organizations, research bodies, municipalities, or Indigenous communities. The grants will facilitate access to spaces, equipment, and financing to grow or process agri-food products. Applications open on October 8, 2024, and close on December 3, 2024.
The initiative aligns with Ontario's Grow Ontario Strategy, aiming to increase agri-food employment by 10% by 2032. It underscores the commitment of federal, provincial, and territorial governments to enhance competitiveness, innovation, and resiliency in Canada's agriculture sector.
"This initiative will help underrepresented groups start and succeed in the agri-food sector, making it more competitive and inclusive," said Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada. Ontario's Minister of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness, Rob Flack, highlighted its role in unlocking entrepreneurial talent to bolster Ontario's $51 billion agri-food industry.
For more details and to apply, visit the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness online.
AWEDI aims to create a more diverse and resilient food system by supporting underrepresented groups in starting and expanding businesses within Canada's agri-food sector.
For women in agriculture, don’t forget to attend the Advancing Women in Ag Conference November 17 to 19th in Niagara Falls.
Photo Credit: Pexels Sergio Souza