TORONTO, ONTARIO — The governments of Canada and Ontario announced an investment of up to C$10 million ($7.5 million) that will support increased meat processing capacity in the province. Under the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (CAP), the funds contribute to the Meat Processors Capacity Improvement Initiative, which provides financial support for independent meat processors making short-term investments.

“Ontario's meat processing industry meets the highest standards for producing high-quality food and is constantly striving to innovate,” said Marie-Claude Bibeau, federal minister of agriculture and agri-food. “This investment will help the industry continue to grow through new productivity-improving technologies.”

Each eligible facility can receive up to C$150,000 ($112,305) to go toward improved equipment, technologies, food safety, productivity and efficiency. Consulting and engineering costs for projects will also be covered.

Processors can begin applying for funding on Aug. 31, and applications will remain open through Jan. 31, 2024, or until the investment is fully distributed.

“This program is a prime example of how our government is making the right investments in the right places that have helped Ontario’s meat processing businesses,” said Lisa Thompson, minister of agriculture, food and rural affairs. “Not only will this initiative have a positive impact for Ontario meat processors, but we’re also increasing competitiveness in a global market.”

The government of Ontario added that the investment serves as a step closer to achieving its Grow Ontario Strategy to increase food production by 30% by 2032 and to grow agri-food exports by 8% annually.

The province has already poured in C$14 million ($10.5 million) in the Meat Processors Capacity Improvement Initiative — C$7.2 million ($5.4 million) in 2020 and C$7 million ($5.2 million) in 2021.

Currently, around 480 provincially licensed and 239 federally licensed meat plants operate in Ontario.