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This season is a favourite for many, and it marks one of the busiest times in our sector, especially for those involved in the fall harvest. As we embark on our new fiscal year in October, we’re excited to hit the ground running with new projects and initiatives designed to engage the industry.
This year, we’re placing a strong emphasis on engagement. With so much happening in the agri-food sector, we’re dedicated to attending various industry events, strengthening our existing relationships, and forging new connections. We’re also pleased to announce that Chantel Crockett has joined our team as the Strategic Partnerships Manager. She will be instrumental in stakeholder outreach and will help guide AAC committees and events, including our 29th AGM on December 12th at the Guelph Delta Hotel and Conference Centre.
The AAC is firmly rooted in program delivery. There was a phenomenal response to the Agri-Tech Innovation Initiative, which we’re delivering on behalf of the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness. The governments of Canada and Ontario are investing up to $22.6 million through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership to enhance production capacity and energy efficiency in the agriculture and agri-food sector. This Initiative is supporting 319 farming and agri-food businesses to help them invest in innovative technology, equipment, or processes that expand production capacity or enhance efficiency. Our AAC team has done an outstanding job managing the volume of applications for this initiative. We are also actively delivering the Veterinary Incentive Program and the Increasing Deadstock Capacity Initiative, both of which address key industry needs and create new opportunities for Ontario’s livestock sector.
I’m thrilled about the enthusiasm surrounding the AAC Board 2050 Committee. We’ve made significant progress in launching this collaboration and are in the final stages of forming a foresighting group to guide our direction and set priorities. By bringing together a diverse array of industry stakeholders, we aim to broaden our perspective on building a sustainable and resilient food system. Our board and staff are deeply passionate about this work, and we look forward to fostering meaningful dialogue, creating new partnerships, and leveraging resources that will benefit Ontario’s agri-food industry as we prepare for the future. For more information about the 2050 Committee, please visit our AAC website.
As always, we’d love to hear from you. Don’t hesitate to reach out to the team with your comments or questions.
Wishing you a wonderful fall season!
Melanie DiReto, AAC Executive Director
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