News Business/Policy Canada
Agri-food sector supply chain receiving support from Canada and Ontario during COVID-19

The governments of Canada and Ontario are investing up to $1 million in new funding to connect workers with in-demand jobs in the agri-food sector to keep the nation’s supply chains strong and store shelves stocked during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Through the Canadian Agricultural Partnership (CAP), the federal and provincial governments will provide support that will help people connect with job opportunities in the sector quickly. This program will help primary agriculture, food processing companies and grocery retail to recruit and train workers to keep the essential food supply chain functioning.

“This is a very labor-intensive sector, so it is critical to attract more people to ensure our food supply chain continues to provide healthy and nutritious food to Ontario families during this COVID-19 outbreak,” said Ernie Hardeman, Ontario Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs. “Our government is doing everything possible to ensure we support our farmers and food processors to fill job vacancies, including the development of a new web portal connecting workers with employers.”

Through CAP’s Place to Grow: Agri-Food Innovation Initiative, the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA) began accepting applications on April 17 and will expedite the approval process to help address sector labour concerns quickly. Eligible applications will be received and assessed on a continuous basis, while funding is available.

For more information about the targeted application intake or to obtain a program guidebook, send an email to agpartnership@ontario.ca or call 1-877-424-1300.