People in the Kootenays will have better access to locally produced food, thanks to nearly $72,000 in provincial funding for a food procurement program.
Through the Rural Economic Diversification and Infrastructure Program (REDIP), the Province is providing funding to support the Nakusp and Area Development Board’s Agri-food Alliance initiative.
The initiative aims to help local businesses strengthen local food production and distribution, while improving access to locally produced food for people in the region.
“By investing in initiatives like this, we’re helping agri-food businesses to grow, reach more customers and strengthen local supply chains – making it easier for people to access local food,” said Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Jobs and Economic Growth.
This initiative brings together local non-profit organizations to collaborate on agri-food initiatives that support local food systems in the region. This includes increasing local food production, strengthening distribution networks and reaching more customers.
Through this work, people and businesses will benefit from:
- shared resources
- community workshops and events
- greater awareness of locally produced food
The program will also:
- help build connections between farmers and buyers, such as school food programs
- explore opportunities for regional food distribution
- support new agri-food businesses
- develop a feasibility plan for a future food hub facility
“Our mission is to cultivate an ecosystem where farmers, producers, non-profits, and community thrive together, ensuring a resilient local food network and healthy agricultural legacy for the Arrow Lakes region,” said Mickey Wojnarowski, president, Nakusp and Area Development Board.
In partnership with the Nakusp and District Chamber of Commerce, the Nakusp and Area Development Board will also strengthen support for local businesses during economic disruptions.
“We are helping people in the Kootenays access more fresh, locally produced food, including in schools, while creating new opportunities for farmers and producers to grow their businesses,” said Lana Popham, Minister of Agriculture and Food.
These efforts aim to strengthen the local system and supply chains, and support long-term benefits for people, businesses and communities in the region.
“Investing in local food systems helps communities grow stronger and more resilient,” said Steve Morissette, MLA for Kootenay-Monashee.
“By supporting producers, businesses and community partners, we are creating more opportunities for people to access local food and building a stronger regional economy.”
Since 2022, the Province has invested $156.5 million through REDIP, supporting 525 projects across B.C., creating an estimated 7,500 jobs in rural communities.
For more information on REDIP, click here.
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