Canadian Government Announces $8M to Launch AgriCommunication Initiative

The Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, the Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, has announced the launch of the AgriCommunication Initiative, which will contribute to better connect Canadians with Canada’s farmers, and the vital role they play in our food system

The AgriCommunication Initiative supports progress towards achieving the vision established in the Food Policy for Canada, that all people in Canada are able to access a sufficient amount of safe, nutritious, and culturally diverse food. Canada’s food system is resilient and innovative, sustains our environment and supports our economy. The Food Policy supports work on food fraud, food labelling, and food loss and waste, among other initiatives.

The Initiative has two streams. The first aims to help Canadians better understand how their food is produced. Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) will provide up to $8 million over three years to support projects that promote consumer awareness of the strengths of Canada’s agriculture sector. Projects will also help enhance Canadians’ trust in sustainability, animal care, and efforts to reduce food waste.

“Farmers and food business workers across Canada work hard to provide sustainable, high quality, nutritious food here at home“ 

(Adobe stock)

“Farmers and food business workers across Canada work hard to provide sustainable, high quality, nutritious food here at home, and around the world,” said Bibeau. 

“Consumers have a growing interest in learning more about where homegrown agricultural products come from and how they’re made. This initiative will develop more connections between the agriculture and agri-food industry and Canadians, which will increase appreciation and pride in our farmers and food businesses.”

The initiative is part of a vision established under the Food Policy for Canada. The policy aims to ensure all Canadians have sufficient access to safe, nutritious and culturally diverse food. It also supports work on food fraud, food labelling, and food loss and waste, among other initiatives.

Eligible recipients include not-for-profit associations and Indigenous groups. The program will also support agricultural fairs and exhibitions which have broad agriculture awareness mandates.

The AAFC will also launch communications and awareness activities in Spring 2022 to highlight the sector’s efforts to adopt sustainable and environmentally friendly practices and technologies. Meanwhile, work is underway to refresh the Canada Brand platform to ensure that food businesses and partners have access to new graphics and tools optimized for today’s digital platforms, enabling them to reach more consumers and enhance virtual connections with international buyers.

This initiative was informed by public opinion research, focus groups, and consultations, including engagement with the Canadian Agricultural Youth Council, as well as industry and provincial organizations.