Rising input costs, animal health risks, and pressure to produce more with less are top concerns for Canadian farmers. Government funding helps Canadian farmers pay for improvements in crop health, livestock outcomes, and land use. In provinces like New Brunswick, targeted agriculture programs can fund up to 50% of eligible on-farm projects.
Government funding for agricultural productivity often focuses on three main areas: crop health, livestock health, and on-farm efficiency. Most programs are cost-shared, which means you pay part of the cost and the government reimburses the rest once you meet certain milestones.
Below are real examples of provincial programs that support these goals.
One of the most direct ways to boost productivity is by reducing disease, pests, and quality losses.
Program overview
What this funding can be used for
This program is designed for primary agricultural producers in New Brunswick who can show a clear link between the project and improved on-farm health outcomes.
Land quality and accessibility have a direct impact on yields and feed production.
Program overview
Eligible activities
This program is repayable. It helps make more land workable and reduces operational bottlenecks for long-term productivity gains.
Productivity does not stop at the field or barn. Making food processing faster and less wasteful helps farmers earn more.
Program overview
What this funding supports
For farms with on-site processing or agri-food businesses, this program can improve throughput and reduce waste.
To improve agricultural productivity using government funding, match your project to the program’s main purpose.
Ask yourself:
GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you filter programs by province, farm type, and project goal in seconds. You can also explore funding options for other sectors or provinces if your needs change.
Applying without a clear productivity outcome
Programs expect measurable improvements like reduced disease, higher yields, or efficiency gains.
Ignoring cost-share requirements
Most agriculture grants cover only up to 50%. You must show you can fund your share.
Assuming repayable funding is a grant
Some programs support productivity but must be paid back. Budget accordingly.
Missing stacking limits
Combining programs may be allowed, but total public funding usually cannot exceed a set percentage of project costs.
Q: Who can apply for crop and livestock health funding in New Brunswick?
Primary agricultural producers in New Brunswick addressing on-farm health or quality issues are typically eligible.
Q: How much funding can I receive for improving animal or crop health?
The Improving Crop and Livestock Health and Quality program offers up to $75,000, covering a maximum of 50% of eligible costs.
Q: Are agriculture grants taxable in Canada?
Yes. Most agriculture grants are considered taxable income and should be reported accordingly.
Q: Can I combine multiple agriculture funding programs?
Stacking may be possible, but total government support usually cannot exceed a defined percentage of total project costs.
Q: Are these programs available year-round?
Some programs are open continuously, while others depend on intake periods or available funding.
Improving agricultural productivity using government funding starts with choosing programs that match your real on-farm challenges. GrantHub tracks hundreds of active agriculture grants across Canada—check which ones align with your crops, livestock, and productivity goals. For ongoing updates on new agriculture funding opportunities, consider subscribing to GrantHub’s newsletter.
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