If you’re planning a new irrigation project in Saskatchewan, the Irrigation Development Program is an important government funding option to know about. While new applications are not currently being accepted, many producers still need clear guidance on eligibility, funding amounts, and what to do if they already have approval. This guide explains how the program works, what the closed intake means for your business, and how to prepare for future opportunities.
New pre-approval applications closed on May 30, 2023, and there are no new intakes at this time.
The Irrigation Development Program is delivered by the Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture under the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership. The program helps agricultural producers build a secure water supply to the edge of irrigable land.
If you did not submit a pre-approval application before the deadline, you cannot apply retroactively.
Based on official program details:
Because this funding must be paid back, it works like a loan, not a grant. You should plan for repayments and check how it affects your cash flow and taxes. Talk to your accountant to understand what this means for your farm.
Eligible applicants include:
You must also meet income and residency requirements:
The program supports projects that:
This can include major infrastructure related to water delivery. However, it does not cover on-farm irrigation equipment beyond the parcel edge.
If you need help checking if your project fits the rules, GrantHub can help you compare eligibility across different funding programs.
If you received pre-approval before the intake closed, you can still move forward—but pay close attention to deadlines.
Key steps:
Review your pre-approval letter
This document lists your eligible costs, maximum funding, and final claim deadline.
Complete the project within approved timelines
Most projects must be finished by December 31, 2025, unless your letter says otherwise.
Submit your claim on time
Late claims are not usually accepted, even if your project is complete.
Secure water approvals
Irrigation projects still need approvals from Saskatchewan’s Water Security Agency. Required forms are available on the agency’s irrigation applications and forms page.
For questions about the process or eligibility, contact:
Starting construction before pre-approval
Costs incurred before written pre-approval are usually not eligible.
Assuming this is a non-repayable grant
The Irrigation Development Program provides repayable funding, so you will need to budget for repayments.
Missing water licensing requirements
Program approval does not replace Water Security Agency approvals. You need both.
Waiting too long to prepare claims
Claims need detailed documentation. Waiting until the last minute can cause errors or missed funding.
Q: Is the Irrigation Development Program currently open in Saskatchewan?
No. New pre-approval applications closed on May 30, 2023, and the intake is not open at this time.
Q: How much funding can I receive per acre?
Eligible applicants can receive up to $1,675 per irrigable acre, covering a maximum of 67% of eligible costs, to a total of $500,000 per applicant.
Q: Is this funding taxable?
Because the funding is repayable, it may be handled differently than a grant for tax purposes. Speak with your accountant to confirm how it applies to your operation.
Q: Can new farm entrants apply?
Yes, new entrants may be eligible if they can meet the $50,000 gross farm income requirement within the program term.
Q: Do I still need water approvals if I have program approval?
Yes. Water use approvals are handled separately by the Water Security Agency and are required for irrigation projects.
Even though the Irrigation Development Program intake is closed, planning ahead is important. Similar programs often reopen with little notice, and eligibility rules can be strict. GrantHub’s eligibility matcher helps you track irrigation and agriculture funding by province and project type as soon as new intakes open.
GrantHub tracks hundreds of active grant and loan programs across Canada, making it easier to see which options fit your farm before deadlines hit. You can also sign up for updates so you never miss a new intake.
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