New COVID-19 recovery funding available for local agri-food sector

The Rural Agri-Innovation Network (RAIN), a division of the Sault Ste. Marie Innovation Centre (SSMIC) is announcing a new funding program to assit the agri-food economy during the COVID-19 pandemic.

A press release issued today states that the Sustinable New Agri-Food Products & Productivity (SNAPP) Program COVID-19 Recovery Fund will help agri-food businesses with projects such as:

• Equipment that can automate or reduce labour in agri-food production or processing (handling facilities, harest/post-harvest processing equipment and food processing equipment)
• Cooler/freezer unit outfitted onto vehicles or trailers to ensure safe delivery of product and increase markets
• Packaging equipment to improve safety and increase capacity for regional supply

“COVID-19 has posed a significant challenge for the agri-food sector to adapt in the face of market disruption,” says RAIN Manager David Thompson. “This funding delivered through the SNAPP Program will assist agri-food businesses with adaptation projects and value chain development.”

The program is available immediately for eligible projects and more information can be found here.