More support coming for B.C. farmers’ markets

Additional federal-provincial funding is coming to the BC Farmers’ Market Expansion Program, further supporting the province’s local farmers’ markets and vendor

The BC Farmers’ Market Expansion Program is re-opening, making $142,500 available to eligible farmers’ markets that did not receive funding in the first round. Each successful applicant can receive as much as $15,000. 

Funding for this one-time, reimbursement-based program is being shared by the federal and provincial governments through the Canadian Agricultural Partnership and is being delivered in collaboration with the BC Association of Farmers’ Markets. The program will help farmers’ markets grow and to operate during emergencies, while supporting the markets’ long-term success and contributing to resilient local food systems. 

 

“The BC Farmers’ Market Expansion Program has made everything we have been working toward a reality“

“Each public market is a privileged meeting place between our agri-food producers and consumers where relationships of trust are built,” Bibeau stated. “While supply chains are under pressure, using short supply chains is one way to promote our food self-sufficiency.”

Funding is provided by the Canadian Agricultural Partnership, a five-year, $3-billion commitment by Canada’s federal, provincial and territorial governments that supports Canada’s agriculture, agri-food and agri-products sectors.

“Farmers’ markets are the heart of our communities, and it’s extremely important they’re able to continue operating, especially during times of need such as emergencies,” said Lana Popham, Minister of Agriculture and Food. “The response to the initial round of funding was so great that it was clear we needed to help more markets in their efforts to expand and operate during critical times. This will help support local food security and build a strong food economy for B.C.”

A $2-billion commitment is cost-shared 60 per cent federally and 40 per cent provincially/territorially for programs that are designed and delivered by provinces and territories.

“The BC Farmers’ Market Expansion Program has made everything we have been working toward a reality,” added Madeline Bourette-Knowles, executive director, Esquimalt Farmers’ Market. “This program has provided us with the support we needed to increase the effectiveness of our systems, support emerging vendors, grow to a twice-weekly market, and increase our capacity in terms of both vendor numbers and sales.”

“This new investment will allow many of British Columbia’s public markets to be even better equipped to serve their communities,” Bibeau said.

The program re-opens on Monday, May 2, 2022, when it will begin accepting applications on a first-come, first-served basis until funding is fully allocated. To apply, visit: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/fmexpansion.