Ottawa, Ontario – Diversity and inclusion are integral to creating an economy that works for everyone. The Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, the Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, announced an investment of up to $734,806 to help five organizations increase the participation of under-represented groups in the Canadian agriculture and agri-food industry.
With funding under the Canadian Agricultural Partnership’s AgriDiversity Program, the organizations will identify barriers and address issues to help more people from diverse backgrounds enter the industry and pursue careers as agricultural entrepreneurs.
The recipients include:
- The Fédération des Agricultrices du Québec will receive up to $315,301
- The Native Women’s Association of Canada will receive up to $136,954
- Indigenous Works will receive up to $123,406
- The Canadian Federation of Agriculture will receive up to $82,389
- The Do More Agriculture Foundation will receive up to $76,756
The projects being undertaken by these organizations will open doors for Canadians of diverse backgrounds, creating new opportunities in Canada’s agriculture and agri-food industry. The organizations will also help raise awareness in the sector of the barriers to starting and growing an agriculture or agri-food business. The work includes a national project to address systemic barriers facing women trying to succeed in agriculture, local initiatives to empower Indigenous peoples to create business opportunities through traditional food and medicine, and national research to address gaps in mental health support for under-represented groups working in agriculture.
The Government of Canada strongly believes that for the Canadian economy to reach its potential, everyone must have the opportunity to fully contribute. It is essential that Canadians in every region of the country see themselves reflected in the agriculture sector. Canada’s diverse population is a source of strength, and helps to make the sector more competitive and prosperous.
Source : Government of Canada