AgriDiversity Program

Building a more inclusive and resilient agriculture sector takes long‑term investment in people, leadership, and opportunity. For not‑for‑profit organizations working across Canada, the AgriDiversity Program is designed to support initiatives that help underrepresented groups fully participate in agriculture and agri‑food, whether through entrepreneurship, skills development, or leadership pathways. Delivered by Agriculture and Agri‑Food Canada, this national program focuses on strengthening the sector by broadening who has access to careers and decision‑making roles within it.

The program supports multi‑year projects that engage groups such as youth, women, Indigenous Peoples, persons with disabilities, and other communities that have historically faced barriers in the sector. Funded activities often include training, mentorship, leadership development, and outreach that promotes agriculture as a viable and rewarding career. Projects may also work directly with Indigenous communities to support economic participation and reconciliation, or help organizations build business and management skills that allow participants to adapt to changing market, regulatory, and sustainability demands. Funding can reach up to around $1 million over several years, provided on a non‑repayable, cost‑shared basis.

While the current intake is closed, the AgriDiversity Program remains an important reference point for nonprofits planning future inclusion‑focused initiatives in agriculture and agri‑food. Understanding how the program works can help organizations prepare stronger projects and position themselves for upcoming funding opportunities.