May 12, 2022
Flowers Canada Growers gets federal funding
Canada’s floriculture industry got a boost from the federal government in February. Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, announced an investment close to $535,000 to support Flowers Canada Growers (FCG) projects to develop market opportunities, address industry challenges and contribute to a stronger Canadian agricultural sector.
Flowers Canada Growers is the national trade association of the Canadian floral industry. Canada has more than 2,400 farms producing floriculture products (2016 Census).
“Canada’s flower growers are proving their resilience, innovation and adaptability with creative solutions to increase economic growth in the floriculture sector,” Minister Bibeau said in a press release. “This investment for Flowers Canada Growers will help many Canadian growers to have the tools they need to capitalize on new markets while expanding their local businesses.”
Nearly $460,000 from the AgriMarketing Program is aimed at bolstering Canada’s reputation as a high-quality floriculture producer, and increasing and diversifying exports to international markets.
“Canadian flower growers have seen steady growth in both export and domestic sales in recent years thanks to the generous support received through the AgriMarketing Program,” said Andrew Morse, executive director of FCG.
FCG will also work with farmers and floriculture businesses to provide trade-related information and support, training and certification to enhance industry knowledge and maintain access to international markets. An additional $75,000 has been earmarked for addressing insurance challenges.
“The AgriRisk initiative is assisting Flowers Canada Growers conduct a feasibility study for the development of a viable long-term comprehensive insurance coverage solution to support reduced insurance premiums for the floriculture greenhouse sector,” Morse said. “FCG is extremely grateful for the financial support being provided by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada.”