The Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP) is a new $3.5-billion, 5-year agreement (April 1, 2023 to March 31, 2028), between the federal, provincial and territorial governments to strengthen the competitiveness, innovation, and resiliency of the agriculture, agri‐food and agri‐based products sector. The agreement includes $1 billion in federal programs and activities and $2.5 billion in cost-shared programs and activities funded by federal, provincial and territorial governments. Sustainable CAP focuses on five key priority areas: building sector capacity, growth and competitiveness; climate change and environment; science, research and innovation; market development and trade; and resiliency and public trust.
One of the ways that Sustainable CAP supports the sector is by providing funding for projects that help farmers adapt to changing consumer demands, environmental challenges, and market opportunities. Recently, the governments of Canada and Ontario announced an investment of more than $4.5 million to help grape growers and beekeepers strengthen their businesses. This investment will support 75 projects that will enhance the sustainability and profitability of these sectors.
Some of the projects funded by this investment include:
- Developing new varieties of grapes that are resistant to cold, disease, and pests
- Improving irrigation and drainage systems for vineyards
- Implementing best practices for bee health and honey production
- Adopting new technologies for hive management and monitoring
- Expanding market opportunities for Ontario wines and honey products
Investing in grape growers and beekeepers.
These projects will help grape growers and beekeepers improve their productivity, quality, and competitiveness in the domestic and global markets. They will also contribute to the environmental and social sustainability of these sectors by reducing greenhouse gas emissions, enhancing biodiversity, and supporting local communities.
The investment in grape growers and beekeepers is part of the cost-shared programs under Sustainable CAP that are tailored to meet regional needs. These programs are developed and delivered by the provinces and territories with 60% of the funding from the federal government and 40% from the provincial/territorial government. To find out more about these programs and how to apply, visit https://www.ontario.ca/page/sustainable-canadian-agricultural-partnership.
The Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership is a collaborative effort between all levels of government to support the growth and innovation of Canada’s agriculture and agri-food sector. By investing in projects that help grape growers and beekeepers strengthen their businesses, Sustainable CAP is demonstrating its commitment to building a competitive, innovative, and resilient sector that benefits all Canadians.
