Alberta’s agriculture industry is important to the province’s economy, accounting for more than $16.2 billion in exports in 2022. The province’s agri-food processing industry is growing, with food manufacturing sales reaching a record $22.7 billion in 2022, more than 20 per cent of total provincial manufacturing sales.
The government is ensuring the industry continues to grow by expanding the Leduc food centre’s Agrivalue Processing Business Incubator (APBI) by 2,300 square metres. This expansion will allow more food processing companies to take the next steps to grow their business and put more food on tables around the world.
“Alberta’s food industry is known for its affordable, high-quality products that are helping to feed the world. This expansion is a great step in helping Alberta’s agri-food sector continue to grow. When our agri-food industry thrives, it drives innovation and boosts Alberta’s economy.”
RJ Sigurdson, Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation
One of two facilities in the Leduc food centre, the APBI helps small businesses prepare products for sale within Canada and around the world by providing them with the tools they need to meet federal food regulation requirements. Since the APBI was established by Alberta’s government in 2007, it has helped small businesses produce a wide variety of value-added food products for retail, wholesale, hospitality and food service markets. These products range from dumplings to baked goods and even fully cooked meat items.
“This expansion shows our government’s commitment to supporting economic growth. Investing in agricultural infrastructure diversifies our economy, creates high-quality jobs and helps Alberta’s food companies and farmers expand and pursue new business opportunities.”
Pete Guthrie, Minister of Infrastructure
Pre-renovation, the area was able to support seven businesses. With renovations completed, up to nine companies can now lease a food processing suite and access product development support, business services and shared staff amenities. Businesses typically lease the suites for three to five years, after which they graduate to their own processing facility. Food processing companies can get more information about the suites and lease application online.
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