Quebec launches $20M initiative to boost agricultural productivity in Outaouais

Tashi Farmilo

The Quebec government has announced a $20 million initiative aimed at boosting the productivity and competitiveness of agricultural businesses specializing in plant production and beekeeping. This funding, available to businesses across the province, includes significant support for those located in peripheral regions such as Outaouais. The initiative will help agricultural producers modernize their equipment, reduce labour hours, and improve efficiency in their operations.

For businesses in Outaouais, the program provides a unique opportunity to benefit from an additional 15% financial assistance, as the region falls under the “peripheral” classification. This extra funding could be pivotal for local farmers and beekeepers looking to invest in state-of-the-art equipment and technologies to keep up with growing demands and the challenges posed by climate change.

The program is divided into two distinct areas of focus. The first supports plant production businesses by helping them purchase equipment that will streamline their operations, reducing the amount of time spent on labour-intensive tasks such as planting, harvesting, and packaging. The second area addresses the beekeeping sector, where producers can receive funding to purchase equipment aimed at increasing bee population survival rates and enhancing workforce productivity.

For businesses to be eligible, they must meet certain requirements, such as being registered with the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Food (MAPAQ) and, in the case of beekeepers, being part of the province’s beekeeping registry. The funding is available on a first-come, first-served basis, and businesses can apply between December 10, 2024 and February 7, 2025.

The financial aid comes in the form of non-repayable contributions, covering up to 45% of eligible expenses for plant production projects and 50% for beekeeping initiatives. In addition, a 15% bonus is available for projects involving organic products, agricultural cooperatives, or those located in peripheral regions.

For more information, visit: https://www.quebec.ca/agriculture-environnement-et-ressources-naturelles/agriculture/aide-financiere/initiative-ministerielle-productivite-vegetale