The bite of fall is in the air! Here is a collection of upcoming events, deadlines, and funding opportunities from around the province.

Fall in Love with Maple

Date: Sept. 25 to Oct. 3, 2021

The Ontario Maple Syrup Producers’ Association (OMSPA) is pleased to announce the launch of a new event in Ontario, Fall in Love with Maple. This event includes participating sugarbushes from nearly 40 locations across Ontario and is a wonderful opportunity for people to get out and see the fall colours in some of the most beautiful locations in the province. For a full list of participating producers, click here.

For more information, contact:

John Williams, Executive Director

admin@ontariomaple.com

613-258-2294

Zimmer Air LDD Moth (Gypsy Moth) 2022 Spray Program Open For Registration

If you’re interested in spraying your woodlot for LDD moth (formerly known as gypsy moth; LDD stands for “Lymantria dispar dispar“, the moth’s Latin name), Zimmer Air has just opened their application process. Note that Zimmer is looking to spray larger blocks compared to last year, and applications for spraying must be submitted earlier.

Their new online portal is here; link to the application form can be found by scrolling down or clicking here.

Funding Opportunities

Risk Management Programs for Maple Syrup Producers

There is currently no crop insurance for maple syrup producers, but there are some more general options available that you may have been unaware of. For a quick guide on programs available for all maple syrup producers, including savings and tax programs, click here. This link can also be found in the above menu: Other > Business Risk Management Programs.

Many of the following funding opportunities were identified from the Algoma, Manitoulin, Sudbury West Ag News E-Newsletter and the OMAFRA Food Bulletin. Email julie.poiriermensinga@ontario.ca to subscribe directly to each and receive monthly updates.

Canadian Agricultural Partnership

Applications accepted: September 29, 2021 – October 20, 2021

What it is

Funding to adopt advanced manufacturing technology that will improve labour productivity, improve input efficiency, or reduce waste. Available cost-share is 35%, up to a maximum of $100,000.

Eligibility

• processor businesses with a facility of 199 employees or less
• be Indigenous partner businesses or be located in Northern Ontario

How to apply

• Read through all the details here
• Make sure you have Adobe Acrobat Reader
• Download this form and fill out in Adobe Acrobat Reader
• Email to agpartnership@ontario.ca

Enhanced Agri-food Workplace Protection Program

Applications accepted until November 30, 2021

What it is

A cost-share program that provides funding for activities addressing the COVID-19 health and safety of on-farm and primary processing agri-food workers/employees. Available cost share is 60% of eligible expenses, up to $15,000

Eligibility:

• Ontario farm business under a valid Farm Business Registration Number or allowable exemption
• Business must employ 3+ paid workers
• Eligible expenses include but aren’t limited to:
• PPE
• WIFI equipment
• Physical distancing measures
• Preventing disease spread

Before applying, read the program details here,

Regional Development Program

What it is

The program supports eligible small and medium-sized businesses investing in new equipment and training to expand operations in these regions. Eligible applicants may receive financial support and advisory services to help navigate other government programs, such as guidance on compliance approvals, assistance with skills and talent. 

Basic Eligibility

• located in Eastern or Southwestern Ontario
• need to have operated at least 3 years
• employ at least 10 people
• commit to creating at least 5 new job (or 30% increase foro companies with under 15 employees)
• invest at least $200,000 in their project

Visit the Government of Ontario’s website to learn more. 

Broadband Internet for Remote Areas Program

Available to businesses across northern Ontario, this funding opportunity covers 50% up to a maximum of $1,500.00 towards upgraded or new broadband or satellite internet. The fund covers 50% towards the purchase of hardware, installation and shipping (depending on the vendor). Click here for more information.

Business Technology Improvement Fund (BTIF)

This program offers 50% of funding up to a maximum of $25,000 ($5,000 max towards website development) towards the purchase of hardware or software technology solutions. This is non-repayable funding to support the purchase of digital technologies or services and new products, such as, Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP); specialized design and production equipment; client relationship management (CRM); and other hardware and software technologies.

Some examples of BTIF program purchases:

• Tractor GPS steering systems
• Bird control scaring devices
• QuickBooks
• Microsoft Office 365
• Upgrading computer systems

For more information on the BTIF program, contact your local representative: 

• Algoma and Sault Ste. Marie Sault Ste. Marie Innovation Centre

• Sudbury, North Bay, Manitoulin Island and Nipissing: Blue Sky Net

Funding and R&D Expertise at Niagara College

The Canadian Food & Wine Institute Innovation Centre is a food & beverage accelerator that provides innovative food & beverage solutions from concept to shelf. Plugging in at the points where you need support most, $300,000 in annual federal funding is available to match 2-to-1 with industry cash for Applied Research Projects, and other unique funding opportunities, where you keep all the intellectual property (formulations, processes, risk assessments, etc.).

Learn more on the Canadian Food & Wine Institute Innovation Centre website.