What's New In Growing Forward

Stakeholders have helped shape Growing Forward. Over the past two years, the federal and provincial governments held a series of consultations where we discussed with our industry partners what worked under the Agricultural Policy Framework and what needed to change. They said there was a need for a stronger focus on achieving results, with programs that are simpler, more effective and more responsive to local needs.

The new Growing Forward initiative offers:

• A flexible approach to meet individual business needs
  It is important that producers and processors have the tools and skills they need to be profitable and innovative. That's why Growing Forward includes a Best Practice Suite that is flexible enough to meet individual business needs.

• More investment in innovation
  Accelerating the pace of innovation and encouraging the adoption of new technologies will help create a more competitive and innovative sector. The Innovation and Science Suite encourages applied research with the clear goals of commercialization and on-farm application.

• A partnership with industry
  Stakeholder consultation was key in developing Growing Forward programs and will continue to be a critical element in their success. The federal and provincial governments will continue to engage industry partners in program development and delivery.

• More effective and more responsive programs
  We are committed to developing and delivering programs under Growing Forward to improve profitability and sustainability for agriculture and agri-food businesses.

For more information on Growing Forward, please call 1-888-479-3931 or e-mail growingforward@ontario.ca