Tashi Farmilo
LJI Reporter

Outaouais agricultural and food businesses are now eligible for a new round of provincial
funding aimed at strengthening Quebec’s local food systems. The Quebec government has
announced a $3 million investment to support a range of agricultural, horticultural, and
agritourism initiatives, with special emphasis on small producers and those in outlying regions
like Outaouais.

Unveiled on June 12 by Agriculture Minister André Lamontagne during the launch of the
Chaudière-Appalaches Gourmet Stops summer season, the funding will support approximately
70 greenhouse and horticultural projects and nearly 60 proximity-marketing and agrotourism
projects across the province.

In Outaouais, eligible businesses include farms and food processors with less than $1 million in
annual revenue. The funding will help these enterprises implement or strengthen plans to sell
directly to consumers, through initiatives like on-farm shops, agritourism experiences, or local
market participation. The program also allows for a 15% boost in financial assistance for young
agricultural businesses and those pursuing organic certification.

“The assistance offered will support the growth of farms while allowing them to diversify their
marketing channels,” said Minister Lamontagne, noting the importance of food self-sufficiency
and the unique role regional producers play in Quebec’s economy.

In 2024, four projects in the Outaouais received a combined total of $70,000 through the
Proximité initiative. This year, several local businesses have already contacted the Ministry of
Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (MAPAQ) to assess eligibility, though the ministry noted that
some apply without prior consultation, making regional forecasting difficult.

Recognizing the additional challenges rural regions face, the government is also advancing the
launch of the application period and increasing aid rates for outlying areas.

“I am pleased with this financial support, which will help support numerous local agricultural
projects throughout Quebec,” said Minister Lamontagne. “Promoting a diversity of production
models and supporting initiatives that bring consumers closer to producers is good for the
economy of our regions and is also a step in the right direction to increase our food self-
sufficiency.”

Applications for the Proximité Ministerial Initiative are being accepted from now until October 31,
2025, or until the $3 million budget is exhausted. Full application guidelines are available at the
Quebec government’s official portal:
www.quebec.ca/agriculture-environnement-et-ressources-naturelles/agriculture/aide-
financiere/initiative-ministerielle-proximite​

Photo: A new $3 million provincial initiative is offering financial support to small farms and food
businesses in Outaouais to boost local marketing and agritourism, with applications open until
October 31, 2025. (TF) Photo courtesy of MAPAQ