As we face the challenges of climate change, economic fluctuations, and global market dynamics, Alberta is stepping up with a series of innovative programs and funding opportunities designed to bolster resilience and productivity in the agricultural sector. The release of the Budget 2024 showcases a recognition of these important challenges and a commitment towards solutions. Here’s a deep dive into Alberta based government programs and how you can participate.

Drought and Flood Protection Program

• Alberta has allocated $25M annually for three years to the DFPP.
• This program supports projects that drought-proof and flood-protect critical infrastructure, such as water, wastewater, and stormwater systems.
• Eligible entities, including municipalities and First Nations, can receive funding covering up to 70% of total eligible costs, to a total of $10M.
• Move quickly as applications are due by June 6 at 2 pm MT!

Enhanced Crop Assessment with Drones

• Alberta has earmarked $900K for drone services to evaluate wildfire effect on agriculture.
• These drones will provide Agriculture Financial Services Corporation (AFSC) adjusters with detailed aerial imagery to assess crop damage more accurately and efficiently.
• Adoption and utilization of technological advancement for precision crop insurance adjustments ensures timely and fair coverage for producers.

Water Sharing Agreements

• Water stakeholders in Alberta have adopted water sharing agreements to ensure the sustainability of water resources.
• License holders in the Bow, Oldman, and Red Deer River basins, including municipalities, industrial users, and irrigation districts, are now collaborating to voluntarily reduce their water usage by 5-10%, prioritizing human consumption.
• This initiative reflects a proactive approach to resource management, setting a precedent for collaborative water stewardship.

Irrigation Rehabilitation Program

• Since 1969, the Government of Alberta has provided 75% of the project cost, shared with the irrigation district.
• Funding can be used for planning, engineering, construction, and upgrades.
• $19M was added to this program in Budget 2024

Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership

• A 5-year program with $3.5B in investment ($1B from Federal government and $2.5B in cost shared Federal-Provincial-Territorial governments)
• Whether it’s improving energy efficiency or engaging in cutting-edge agricultural research, these programs are designed to support the primary producers and innovators at the forefront of agricultural advancement.
• RDAR – 3 funding streams (On-Farm Climate Action Fund; Agriculture Funding Consortium; Accelerating Agricultural Innovations)
• On-Farm Value-Added Program (varying funding, up to 50% funded, up to $250K)
• Value-Added Program (varying funding, up to 50% funded, up to $250K)
• Water Program (varying funding, up to 50% funded, up to $40K)
• Emerging Opportunities Program (up to 50% funded, up to $2M total)
• Farm Technology Program (varying funding available)
• Resilient Agricultural Landscape Program (varying funding, up to 100% funded)
• Resiliency and Public Trust Program (up to 60% funded, up to $500K)
• Efficient Grain Handling (50% funded, up to $100K)

Alberta’s Investment and Growth Fund

• Although not always related to agriculture, this fund has supported organizations like GoodLeaf and Logistik.
• IGF is designed for late-stage investment.
• An extra $15M was added to this fund in Budget 2024, with a total of $319M invested between 2022 and 2025.

Alberta Agri-Processing Investment Tax Credit

• Alberta offers a tax incentive for corporations investing in the construction or expansion of agri-processing facilities.
• A 12% non-refundable tax credit is available for investments exceeding $10 million (new capital expenditures, new agricultural processing facility, new builds, expansions, etc.)
• This program is not for primary agriculture projects.
• Up to $175M available for each project.
• Most recently utilized by Little Potato Company for their new Nisku facility.

How to Get Involved

These programs illustrate Alberta’s commitment to fostering a resilient, innovative, and sustainable agricultural sector. If you’re a stakeholder there are numerous opportunities to engage with and benefit from these initiatives.

Are you interested in learning more about how these programs can benefit your agricultural endeavors or community projects? With a plethora of expertise in the field, our team can help you navigate the complexities of these opportunities and maximize your potential benefits. Whether you’re looking to improve water management practices or expand your agri-processing capabilities, let us be your guide along every step of the process.

Let’s cultivate a future together.

Happy farming!