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First Nations Agricultural Association

Funding to Strengthen First Nations Agriculture

BC Government awards provincial grant

Provincial grant received to strengthen First Nations Agriculture

The Province is contributing $65,000 to the First Nations Agriculture Lending Association (FNALA) to further agricultural programs benefiting First Nations in B.C., Kamloops MLA Claude Richmond and Kamloops-North Thompson MLA Kevin Krueger announced January 23rd on behalf of Agriculture and Lands Minister Pat Bell.

“This government fully supports the work the FNALA does to create, develop and expand agriculture programs and economic development opportunities for B.C. First Nations,” said Bell. “Our commitment to forging a new relationship with First Nations is strong, as demonstrated by our province’s agriculture plan goal to increase the number of First Nations actively involved in the sector. Together, I am confident we will achieve our goal.”

The funds will be used by the First Nations Agriculture Lending Association for:

Aboriginal Agriculture Training Centre Feasibility Study: $30,000 to look at developing a centre dedicated to First Nations agriculture education and training.
First Nations Food Certification Program: $15,000 to lay the groundwork for a First Nations food certification program, similar to the organic food certification program.
First Nations 2010 Agri-Food Market Study: $20,000 to identify niche market outlets for First Nations’ certified agriculture products in time for the 2010 Winter Olympics.

FNALA was formed in 1988 to provide financing for First Nations agricultural producers throughout the province. In addition to direct financing operations, the association also provides extension services and agriculture training support. The association’s mandate is to foster and encourage the overall economic and social well-being of First Nations farmers.

Meeting with Agriculture Canada