Tashi Farmilo
LJI Reporter

Quebec’s Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food has launched the 10th edition of the Prix
de la relève agricole, an annual award recognizing outstanding young agricultural
entrepreneurs. The initiative aims to highlight innovation, sustainability, and leadership among
the province’s next generation of farmers, offering financial support to the winners.

The competition is open to agricultural entrepreneurs under the age of 40 who own a majority
stake – at least 51 per cent – in a registered farming business that has been operational for
three to ten years. Eligible applicants must have generated at least $50,000 in gross revenue in
the previous year. The award is available to entrepreneurs from all regions of Quebec.

Winners will receive a $7,500 grant, while finalists will be awarded $3,500. The selection
process is overseen by a jury of experts from the Ministry of Agriculture, business
representatives, and industry associations, evaluating applicants based on their business vision,
financial performance, community involvement, and sustainability efforts.

Applications must be submitted by May 20, including a completed nomination form, a letter of
recommendation from a regional agricultural advisor, and full financial statements for the past
two years. Candidates are required to work with their regional agricultural succession and
establishment advisor, who will assist in verifying eligibility and providing support throughout the
application process.

Last year’s winners, Maude Péloquin, Renaud Péloquin, and Michaël Lecours, owners of Ferme
de Ste-Victoire Inc. in Montérégie, were recognized for their commitment to sustainable farming
and their efforts to promote innovative agricultural practices within the industry. The finalists,
Emmanuelle Vincent and Simon Laflamme, who operate a dairy farm in Chaudière-Appalaches,
were commended for their successful farm transfer model, which serves as an example for
young farmers seeking to enter the industry.

The Prix de la relève agricole will be awarded during the official ceremony of the Ordre national
du mérite agricole in the fall of 2025. More information, including application details and
eligibility criteria, can be found on the official Quebec government website:
https://www.quebec.ca/gouvernement/reconnaissance-prix/agriculture/prix-releve-agricole. For
inquiries, applicants can contact the Ministry of Agriculture at Prix.Releve@mapaq.gouv.qc.ca.

Photo: Quebec’s 10th edition of the Prix de la relève agricole is now open for applications,
offering financial recognition to young agricultural entrepreneurs across the province, including
Outaouais, with a $7,500 grant for the winner and $3,500 for the finalist. Among last year’s
honourees were winners Renaud Péloquin, Maude Péloquin, and Michaël Lecours, owners of
Ferme de Ste-Victoire Inc. in Montérégie. (TF) Photo: Éric Labonté, MAPAQ