Funding boost expands agritourism opportunities in Ontario
Ontario’s agritourism industry is growing with the help of $345,000 in government funding. Agritourism Ontario (AO), rebranded from Farm Fresh Ontario, is using this support to enhance connections between families and local farms.
The funding will create a first-of-its-kind app to make farm visits easier for families. Additionally, an economic growth study will assess the current state and future potential of the agritourism sector. Marketing campaigns, farm visit awareness initiatives, and professional development programs for AO members are also key components of this growth strategy.
“Agritourism is such a dynamic and growing part of Ontario’s nearly $51 billion agri-food sector. There are so many engaging, energizing, and fun experiences open to people across our province that reconnects them to their land and soil and inspires them to choose world-class, locally grown food products,” said Rob Flack, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness. “Thank you, Agritourism Ontario. The work you do plays such a critical role in building up the momentum we’re seeing across our province’s agritourism sector and communicates Ontario’s amazing agri-food story, which employs over 871,000 men and women.”
“We are very grateful to Minister Flack for his support. There is so much growth potential in our sector and this funding will go a long way in helping us reach that potential,” said Darlene Downey, AO’s board chair.
With nearly 300 members, AO is Ontario’s only dedicated agritourism association, providing advocacy, marketing, and development resources to farmers. Founded in 1973, AO continues to strengthen Ontario’s agriculture through innovation and education.
Photo Credit: agrotourism_resized