B.C. launches ‘buy local’ campaign
British Columbia farmers and food processors are receiving $2 million from the provincial government to promote local food.
The funding will allow local businesses and organizations to launch or expand their marketing campaigns so that different sectors of the province’s diverse food industry can use customized promotions specific to their markets and needs.
It’s anticipated the funding will be particularly helpful to small-scale producers and businesses looking to promote their products.
Businesses and organizations will be able to apply for matching funding from the provincial government for projects that promote local food.
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Projects could include in-store promotions, social media or web campaigns, smart phone apps, traditional advertising, on-product labelling and food tourism maps.
Producers, stores, farmers markets, restaurants, processors and industry associations will be eligible to participate.
For more information, visit www.gov.bc.ca/agri/buylocal.html.
FarmLink invests in agricultural youth
FarmLink Marketing Solutions is investing $25,000 into farm youth and communities in Western Canada.
The newly formalized farming futures program chose its focus because too many small towns suffer from lack of interest in agriculture and more future talent is needed in the industry.
The plan funds high school scholarships for students in agriculture, post-secondary research in grain marketing and community projects and initiatives to help farm families faced with sudden hardship related to natural disasters.
Rural scholarships of $500 were given to graduating students with an average of 80 percent or higher who intended to pursue higher education within an agricultural, business, arts or science related field.
For more information, contact Brenda Tjaden Lepp at 204-832-2233 or email Brenda@farmlinksolutions.ca.
Best Cooking Pulses receives marketing award
Best Cooking Pulses, Inc. has won the 2012 Manitoba Agricultural Marketing Excellence Award for its innovation and double digit growth.
The third-generation, family-owned company mills pulse flours, pea fibre and dried whole and split peas for the food and pet food industry.
The company has been active in the international pulse trade since 1936. The combination of proprietary milling technology, innovative gluten-free products and strategic alliances with market leaders has resulted in double-digit growth for each of the past five years.
The annual award for marketing excellence is presented by the province or state hosting the North American Agricultural Marketing Officials annual conference. Judging criteria include domestic and international sales, support of industry associations, involvement in the local community, introduction of new products and activity in various marketing channels, including trade shows and social media.
4-H receives funding in B.C.
British Columbia’s 4-H program is receiving $87,000 from the provincial government.
The funding comes with wide recognition that 4-H teaches young people about agricultural activities.
The 4-H program has been around for more than 95 years. Today, more than 2,200 youth between the ages of six and 21 participate in programs throughout the province. Special projects are available for young adults.
