Manitoba's agricultural sector is set to receive a significant boost, with both the provincial and federal governments investing $15.4 million over the next four years in major infrastructure projects aimed at improving food processing capacity across the province. This funding, part of the Sustainable Canadian Agriculture Partnership (Sustainable CAP), is designed to help local producers increase their output, create jobs, and make the industry more efficient and sustainable.
Wab Kinew, Premier of Manitoba, spoke about the importance of this investment:
"This is all about supporting the backbone of our economy—the agriculture industry. We’re helping businesses modernize by providing them with the tools they need to boost productivity, be more sustainable, and keep moving forward."
The funding will support up to 70 projects in areas like food processing, modernization of facilities, and the adoption of new technology.
"By investing in equipment and innovative solutions, we're making sure that Manitoba’s agriculture sector can continue to grow and remain competitive," Kinew added.
The announcement was made at Burnbrae Farms, a well-established egg production facility in Winnipeg. This investment will help modernize their operations, increasing their efficiency and overall capacity. Burnbrae's CEO, Margaret Hudson, expressed her gratitude, stating, "The funding will allow us to expand our Winnipeg operation and continue providing quality eggs from responsibly raised hens."
Other projects receiving funding include:
- Kimberly Packing Corporation: Based in southern Manitoba, this potato producer will use the funding to expand local processing capabilities, reducing the need to send their product out of the province for packaging.
- Roquette Canada: This global leader in pea protein production, located in Portage la Prairie, will invest in new equipment to enhance the efficiency and reliability of its world-class processing plant.
- Spenst Bros Premium Meats: A family-owned business in Winkler, Spenst Bros will expand its market for frozen pizzas across Canada, supported by the new funding for its meat processing and production facilities.
Chris Chinery, Manager of the Roquette Portage Pea Protein Plant, spoke highly of the partnership with both levels of government, saying, "We saw the potential for innovation in Manitoba, and we've been thrilled to see that potential come to life. This funding allows us to keep growing and supporting the sustainable food production needed around the world."
The Sustainable CAP program, which will distribute a total of $15.4 million across these projects, is part of a larger five-year, $3.5 billion investment by federal, provincial, and territorial governments to enhance the agriculture and agri-food sectors across Canada. This partnership is aimed at creating more competitive, resilient, and innovative agriculture businesses that can thrive in a rapidly changing global market.
Premier Kinew noted, "This investment will help companies across Manitoba get the equipment and technology they need to stay ahead, keep people employed, and make sure we can continue to feed our communities and the world."