The Alberta government has given a sizeable grant to help the province’s agritourism industry.
The Alberta Farm Fresh Producers Association (AFFPA) is launching a new initiative to bolster Alberta’s smaller scale family farms and agritourism sector. Its creation is made possible after a $300,000 grant was provided through the Northern and Regional Economic Development Program.
The program’s aim is to connect consumers with local farms and closer-to-home food, diversifying income on smaller farms through agritourism and strengthening Alberta’s food supply chain at the same time.
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“The Northern and Regional Economic Development Program is empowering communities to attract investment, grow economies and create high-value, stable jobs for Albertans. This program unlocks new opportunities for Albertans in every corner of the province, ensuring Alberta remains the best place to live, work, invest and raise a family,” Joseph Schow, provincial minister of jobs, economy, trade and immigration, said in an AFFPA press release.
In rural Alberta, agritourism allows farmers and ranchers to supplement or reinvent their businesses, remain financially viable and thrive through diversification.
The Alberta-Grown Food and Agritourism Growth Initiative provides new supports for small family farms across Alberta looking for new revenue streams to support their operations by participating in tourism and the visitor economy. Staycations in Alberta have become increasingly popular, especially as people look for ways to explore their local surroundings without extensive travel, and international travelers are looking for destinations off the beaten track.
“Agritourism represents a significant opportunity for rural communities to experience the many benefits of a thriving visitor economy — from job creation and entrepreneurial opportunities to more municipal revenues and amenities that help communities thrive. The Alberta-Grown Food Agritourism Growth Initiative will help Alberta capture the growing global demand for taste of place experiences by showcasing the world-class food and hospitality our province has to offer,” said Jon Mamela, chief commercial officer with Travel Alberta.
The initiative aims to capitalize on the $878 million market value of farmers markets and farm retail in Alberta, creating new jobs and promoting local food.
Provincial funding over three years will support AFFPA’s $600,000 program to develop a comprehensive agritourism growth strategy, increase direct farm sales and expand U-pick farms.
The funds will also facilitate professional development for agritourism operators.
Agritourism is a growing part of Alberta’s nearly $10.3 billion agri-food sector, offering experiences such as farm tours, harvest festivals and farm-to-table dinners. It’s a strategic move to diversify income for small-scale family farms.
Alberta’s agri-food sector employs more than 69,000 people, with significant investments in primary agriculture and food manufacturing industries.
AFFPA is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year. It is the only association in Alberta dedicated to supporting agritourism, helping its members through workshops, marketing, education and advocacy.
The project is in collaboration with the Alberta Hospitality Association, the Alberta Food Processors Association and numerous producer groups and municipalities across Alberta.
