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Canada and B.C. fund knowledge development and regenerative ag practices

B.C. agricultural producers and processors will soon be able to apply for funding to help increase innovation and resiliency as they compete with the international market.

“We are always looking at ways to continue supporting B.C. producers and processors as they provide a crucial role in our provincial food security and economy,” said Lana Popham, B.C. minister of agriculture and food. “By adding a regenerative agriculture funding stream, we are committed to a B.C. food system that is more sustainable and resilient.”

The Knowledge and Technology Transfer Program (KTTP) will begin accepting applications on Sept. 1 with three funding streams, including a new stream for regenerative agriculture practices:

• Stream 1: Subject matter expert for knowledge development
  • Amount eligible for cost-sharing: as much as $1,500;
  • Subject matter expert activities include conferences, events, annual general meetings and community meetings.
• Stream 2: Hands-on learning for skill and knowledge development
  • Amount eligible for cost-sharing: as much as $7,500;
  • Activities that support the development of skills include field days, research trials, farm tours, technology training, hands-on workshops, or focus on importance of adult learning with a gender-based analysis plus (GBA+) perspective.
• Stream 3 – Regenerative agriculture activities
  • Amount eligible for cost-sharing: as much as $7,500;
  • Activities with regenerative agriculture practices include field days, research trials, farm tours, technology training, hands-on workshops or focus on importance of adult learning and focus on GBA+ perspectives.

“Our government recognizes the tremendous potential new technologies bring to strengthening and sustainably growing B.C.’s agriculture sector,” said Marie-Claude Bibeau, federal minister of agriculture and agri-food. “By investing in the Knowledge and Technology Transfer Program, we are supporting producers throughout the province in their efforts to adopt innovative solutions to ensure a resilient food system that benefits all Canadians.”

The KTTP aims to increase the competitiveness, resiliency and innovation of B.C.’s agriculture and food sector through facilitated knowledge and technology sharing. In the spring 2022 intake, 20 applications were approved, with $91,500 in funding. Projects under the KTTP are funded by the Canadian Agricultural Partnership.