The provincial and federal governments have invested over $1 million in 24 projects in Barrie and the surrounding area of Dufferin County and Simcoe County to help grow the area's food and beverage sector and the local economy.
Federal and provincial representatives made the announcement Tuesday at Cookstown Greens, which received $80,850 to support upgrades to its refrigeration system and the creation of cold wash and pack areas. These projects will improve the produce quality and extend the farm's selling season.
The 24 projects received funding through Growing Forward 2 — a federal-provincial-territorial initiative that provides funding for programs that improve innovation, competitiveness market development, adaptability and industry sustainability in Canada's agri-food and agri-products sectors.
These investments help achieve the federal government's goal of encouraging the agricultural and agri-food sector to be a leader in job creation and innovation in order to grow the middle class.
Investing in Ontario's agri-food sector is part of the provincial government's economic plan to build Ontario up and deliver on its number-one priority to grow the economy and create jobs. The four-part plan includes helping more people get and create the jobs of the future by expanding access to high-quality college and university education. The plan is making the largest infrastructure investment in hospitals, schools, roads, bridges and transit in Ontario's history and is investing in a low-carbon economy driven by innovative, high-growth, export-oriented businesses. The plan is also helping working Ontarians achieve a more secure retirement.
Source: AAFC