The new Canadian Agricultural Partnership will contribute $90 million into Alberta's Ag sector this year.

The money will be available through Partnership programs focused on public trust, products, market growth, and diversification.

The Canadian Agricultural Partnership replaced Growing Forward 2 in April of this year.

Alberta Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, Oneil Carlier, announced the 2018 programs at the Calgary Stampede Friday, July 13.

"Alberta’s agricultural sector is a vital and dynamic contributor to our economy and to our rural communities," Carlier said. "In an increasingly challenging global marketplace, it is essential that our processors’ and agri-food producers’ competitive edge remain sharp. These programs will help companies expand their export capacity and further enhance Alberta’s reputation as a supplier of safe, high-quality food products to the world.'

2018 Partnership programs focused on products, market growth and diversification total $72 million, and programs focused on public trust in agriculture will total $19 million.

Ag for Life CEO, Luree Williamson says, as an organization dedicated to promoting agriculture in Alberta, they support the opening of these programs designed to enhance public trust.

"Building greater awareness of the sector helps consumers make more informed choices and fosters a greater appreciation of the role agriculture plays in society, the environment and the economy.”

The Partnership commits a federal-provincial investment of $406 million over five years in Alberta.

These programs are part of a suite of 15 programs to be offered under the Partnership in Alberta.

 

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