Agribusiness Labour Force Management Initiative Summary

Posted on October 30th, 2024 in Agribusiness

Photo of apple farm with several employees picking apples and putting them into large crates.

The governments of Canada and Ontario have created the Labour Force Management Strategies Initiative to attract and retain Ontario agri-food workers. This $4-million investment, funded by the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP), will strengthen Ontario’s agri-food workforce for years.

Producers and processors can receive up to 50% cost-share support, with a maximum of $40,000 per project. Industry organizations can receive up to a maximum of $100,000 per project.

The key components of the initiative include:

funding for job training and recruitment marketing campaigns;
introduction of worker supports such as ridesharing programs and language training; and
support for on-site amenities and recreational facilities.

Applications are now being accepted for eligible primary producers, processors, and industry organizations. The deadline to submit applications is September 2, 2025.

For more information about this new initiative:

Governments investing in initiatives to attract and retain agri-food labour – Canada.ca

Labour Force Management Strategies Initiative | ontario.ca