If you represent Canada’s turkey or chicken sector and want to grow domestic demand, federal funding is available to help. The Market Development Program for Turkey and Chicken supports industry-led projects that promote Canadian poultry products. It also helps strengthen consumer confidence. For national organizations, this program can cover a large share of eligible costs.
This guide explains who can apply, what the program funds, and how the application process works.
The Market Development Program for Turkey and Chicken is a federal contribution program delivered by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC). Its main goal is to increase demand in Canada for turkey and chicken products. Projects must be national in scope and benefit the entire sector.
Key program facts:
This funding is not meant for individual farms or processors. It is designed for projects that help the sector as a whole.
Eligibility is limited. The program is intended for organizations that represent the industry at a national level.
You may be eligible if your organization is:
You are not eligible if you are:
Individual businesses can still benefit if their national association applies and runs sector-wide initiatives.
Funding supports projects that promote Canadian turkey and chicken products. It also helps build consumer trust. Eligible activities include:
The program reimburses up to 80% of approved costs. Your organization must cover the remaining share from other sources.
Tools like GrantHub’s eligibility matcher can help you quickly confirm if this program fits your organization’s profile.
The application process generally follows these steps:
Develop a national project plan
Define your objectives, activities, timelines, and explain how the project will increase domestic demand.
Prepare a detailed budget
Clearly separate eligible and ineligible expenses. Show how you will fund the remaining 20%.
Submit an application to AAFC
Applications go directly to Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada through the official intake process.
Assessment and approval
AAFC reviews projects based on eligibility, alignment with program goals, and value to the sector.
Sign a contribution agreement
Approved applicants must report on activities and expenses to receive reimbursement.
Applying as an individual business
Only national industry organizations can apply. Single farms or companies are not eligible.
Focusing on export markets
The program supports domestic demand in Canada, not international markets.
Submitting a vague project plan
Applications must have clear activities, measurable outcomes, and a realistic budget.
Assuming 100% funding
The maximum contribution is 80%. You need to secure the remaining funds elsewhere.
Q: How much funding can you receive from the Market Development Program for Turkey and Chicken?
Funding can cover up to 80% of eligible project costs. The total amount depends on the scope and budget of your approved project.
Q: Is this program a loan that must be repaid?
No. It is a non-repayable contribution, as long as you meet the terms of your funding agreement.
Q: Can individual poultry farms apply directly?
No. Individual farms are not eligible unless they participate through a national industry organization that applies for the sector.
Q: Does the program support export marketing?
No. The focus is strictly on increasing domestic demand within Canada for turkey and chicken products.
Q: Is funding from this program taxable?
Government funding is usually considered taxable income. Your organization should check with an accountant familiar with not-for-profit funding.
If you represent a national turkey or chicken organization, this program can support sector-wide projects that individual businesses cannot do alone. GrantHub tracks hundreds of active agriculture and market development programs across Canada — including federal and provincial options — to help you see what else may supplement this funding.
See also:
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