Ontario Launches $4 Million Initiative to Boost Agri-Food Workforce
Ontario, Tuesday, 22 October 2024.
The Ontario government, in partnership with Canada, introduces the Labour Force Management Strategies Initiative. This $4 million program aims to attract and retain workers in the agri-food sector, addressing critical labor shortages and supporting long-term industry growth.
Addressing Labor Shortages in Agri-Food
The agri-food sector in Ontario, a vital component of the province’s economy, has been grappling with significant labor shortages, which threaten its growth and sustainability. To combat this, the Ontario government, in collaboration with the federal government, has launched the Labour Force Management Strategies Initiative. With a substantial investment of $4 million from the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership, this initiative is poised to transform the workforce landscape in the agri-food industry.
Comprehensive Support for Workforce Development
The initiative aims to support the agri-food sector by providing resources for job training, recruitment marketing campaigns, and language training programs. Additionally, it introduces ridesharing programs and plans for on-site amenities to make employment in this sector more attractive. Successful producers and processors can receive up to 50% cost-share support per project, with a maximum of $40,000, while industry organizations may receive up to $100,000. Applications for this program opened on 22 October 2024, and will be accepted until 2 September 2025.
Government and Industry Collaboration
The collaborative efforts between the Government of Ontario and the federal government underscore the importance of nurturing a robust workforce within the province’s agri-food sector. The Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, emphasized the need for skilled labor to meet the demands of this growing sector. Rob Flack, Ontario’s Minister of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness, highlighted the initiative’s role in ensuring that agribusinesses have continued access to skilled labor, which is crucial for their long-term growth.
Aiming for Long-Term Competitiveness
By focusing on recruitment, retention, and skill enhancement, the Labour Force Management Strategies Initiative seeks to increase agri-food sector employment by 10% by 2032. The initiative is a strategic move to position Ontario as a prime destination for international agri-food workers, reinforcing the sector’s competitiveness on a global scale. This aligns with the Ontario Agri-Food Innovation Alliance’s vision of advancing research and innovation to promote economic development and sustainable agricultural practices in the region.