Now accepting applications
Two popular programs offered through Growing Forward 2 are now accepting applications.
Business Management Skills Development Program
The purpose of this program is to help Alberta’s new or established producers, agri-processing companies and agricultural organizations improve their business management skills, thereby enhancing the industry’s competitiveness and sustainability.
Successful applicants are eligible for reimbursement of up to 75 per cent of eligible costs for approved business skills development training courses, and 75 per cent of tuition fees or the cost to hire an instructor for a group skill-training course.
Individuals can apply for multiple projects to a maximum of $10,000 per individual for the life of the program. Groups can apply for multiple projects to a maximum of $20,000 per application and a maximum of $40,000 for the life of the program.
On Farm Energy Program
This program shares the cost of investments that improve energy efficiency on Alberta farms which enables producers to conserve energy and reduce carbon emissions, ultimately reducing the environmental footprint of Alberta’s agriculture industry.
There have been some changes made to the program which took effect on October 24, 2016, most notably that the cost share rate has been increased from 35 to 70 per cent, increasing the maximum amount of available funds to $750,000. The program is retroactive, so purchases made as far back as April 1, 2013 are eligible for reimbursement.
Currently active grants can be terminated so they can apply under the new rules, but if equipment has already been claimed at a lower cost-share rate, it cannot be topped-up. Applicants who had previously reached their cap are eligible again.
Source : Agriculture and Forestry