LJI Reporter
Tashi Farmilo

André Lamontagne, the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food and Minister responsible for
the Centre-du-Québec region, is calling on young farmers under the age of 40 to participate in
the 9th Young Farmers’ competition. Registration is open until May 20. The prize is a prestigious
award that celebrates the achievements of young agricultural business owners in both animal
and plant production, recognizing their exceptional skills, entrepreneurial vision, innovative
approaches, community involvement, and commitment to sustainable development.

The winner of the competition will receive a scholarship of $7,500, while the runner-up will be
awarded $3,500. Minister Lamontagne expressed his support for the initiative, stating, “The
future of the agri-food sector requires young, competent farm owners who are not afraid to
innovate to meet the challenges they face. Through this competition, your government aims to
recognize the excellence of a diverse generation who are called upon to play a leading role on
the path to greater food autonomy. I encourage young people to register for the Young Farmers’
Prize and showcase their talent!”

Annie Viens and Maxim Paré, co-owners of Maison Flavora and winners of the 2023 Emerging
Agricultural Prize, shared their positive experience, saying, “Winning the 2023 Emerging
Agricultural Prize gave us a great dose of motivation and confidence in our company and our
business projects. The registration process allowed us to take a step back to take stock of our
accomplishments and the improvements we want to make to Flavora. Positive all round!”

Young farmers interested in participating are encouraged to submit their registration files to one
of the Ministry’s regional up-and-coming and establishment advisors. These advisors will assess
the eligibility of applications and support participants throughout the process. A jury composed
of experts from the Ministry, representatives from the business world, and representatives from
associative circles will select the winners and runners-up. The Young Farmers’ Prize will be
awarded next fall. For more information or to complete the nomination form, visit
www.mapaq.gouv.qc.ca/prixreleve .

Photo: The Next-Generation Agricultural Prize recognizes the innovation and entrepreneurship
of young individuals or groups in animal or plant production, awarding the winner a $7,500
scholarship and the runner-up a $3,500 scholarship. (TF) Photo: Tashi Farmilo