The provincial government, in partnership with the federal government, is providing $2.5 million to Ag for Life, to help support Alberta's agriculture industry. (File photo: LNN)

By Justin Goulet/LethbridgeNewsNOW

Provincial and federal governments team up to support Alberta’s agriculture industry

Nov 26, 2022 | 10:45 AM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – The provincial government has announced funding for the agriculture sector.

In partnership with the federal government, the province is providing $2.5 million to Ag for Life. Officials note this will help companies recruit, hire, and retain workers in the agriculture and agri-food industry.

Since 2011, Ag for Life has delivered agriculture education to over half a million Albertans.

The charitable organization works with producers to develop programming that aims to inspire a better understanding of the role agriculture plays in the provincial economy.

The $2.5 million investment will provide eligible organizations with grants of up to $40,000 to increase public awareness of agricultural career opportunities through online advertising campaigns.

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Nate Horner, Alberta’s minister of agriculture and irrigation, stated in a news release, “Alberta’s agriculture sector continues to grow and set new investment and export records despite facing numerous challenges.”

Horner continued, “This funding will help producers and processors with their labour needs so they can remain competitive, grow their businesses, and respond to an international food shortage.”

Additionally, as part of the investment, Ag for Life will offer grants of up to $25,000 to provide organizations with human resources training to support worker retention.

Brian Jean, minister of jobs, economy and northern development stated, “The agriculture and agri-food industry are major job creators that fuel Alberta’s economic growth.”

He said, “This funding offers valuable support to Alberta employers and helps them succeed in our thriving economy. Supporting jobs in agriculture means creating prosperity for Albertans.”

Meanwhile, Luree Williamson, CEO of Ag for Life said, “With a mandate of advancing agriculture literacy and career pathways, Ag for Life is excited to see this funding support Alberta producers and processors so they can continue to attract, grow and retain a strong workforce now and into the future.”

Carla Qualtrough, federal minister of employment, workforce Development and disability inclusion added, “Canada needs more skilled workers to help strengthen our workforce. Through our investments in skills development and employment services, we’re working with provinces and territories to ensure that, across Canada, more skilled workers can be hired and retained.”

Qualtrough said, “Last year, almost 97,000 Albertans were supported under the federal labour market transfers with Alberta. This funding is critical to supporting Ag for Life, reaching more Albertans with labour market training supports and ensuring that employers have the skilled workers they need.”

Eligible companies can apply for the grant through Ag for Life until March 2024.