Growing Canadian Agri-Innovations Program supported by CFA

June 1, 2009 – The Canadian Federation of Agriculture (CFA) was pleased to see details on the  $158 million Growing Canadian Agri-Innovations Program announced Friday with a goal to  support industry-led innovation initiatives and help introduce new agricultural products into the market quickly.

“This announcement under Growing Forward has been long anticipated as an important tool to assist farmers, food processors, and researchers with introducing innovative ideas to the marketplace in less time,” said Laurent Pellerin, CFA President. 

The Growing Canadian Agri-Innovations Program will be delivered nationally by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada as part of Growing Forward and will invest in four initiatives: Agri-Science Clusters, Growing Innovative Agri-Products, Agri-Foresight, and Promoting Agri-Based Investment Opportunities.
 
“These programs will help farmers further enhance our agricultural sector through industry leadership and investment in agricultural science and innovation,” said Pellerin. “The CFA hopes these tools will provide another opportunity for partnership between the agricultural sector and government in addressing this changing economic environment.”

The CFA looks forward to a speedy review of applications and roll-out of funding. Many farm groups have been busy developing their research strategies for several months and need assurance that these funds will be delivered quickly to allow them to plan their budgets.