Alberta Agriculture Grant, Tax Credit, and Loan Funding Programs

Alberta’s agriculture industry continues to play a crucial role in the province’s economy, contributing over $10.3 billion to the GDP in 2023 and supporting approximately 83,000 jobs. To help sustain and expand this vital sector, the federal and provincial governments offer a wide array of Alberta agriculture grant, tax credit, and loan funding programs.

These government funding programs can assist farmers, producers, and agribusinesses with key investments in infrastructure, innovation, and sustainability. Here’s a breakdown of some of the top opportunities available in 2025.

Government Grants for Alberta Agriculture

Grants are a major source of nonrepayable funding for projects that promote long-term growth, community development, and environmental stewardship.

Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP)

This five-year, $3.5 billion initiative supports the competitiveness and resilience of Canada’s agriculture and agri-food sectors. In Alberta, Sustainable CAP includes targeted programs like the Alberta Value-Added Program, which helps processors:

• Increase production capacity
• Expand into new markets
• Create jobs within Alberta

It’s designed to stimulate innovation and support investments that diversify the province’s agri-processing capabilities.

Agricultural Societies Grant Program

This program provides essential funding to Alberta’s agricultural societies. In 2024/25, over $2.5 million was awarded to help fund:

• Infrastructure maintenance and repairs
• Governance and leadership training
• Agricultural events and community programming

The next intake for 2025/26 is expected in Spring 2025.

Tax Credits for Agribusiness Innovation and Expansion

Tax credits help reduce the cost of capital investment and innovation by lowering overall tax liability for eligible businesses.

Agri-Processing Investment Tax Credit (APITC)

Corporations investing $10 million or more in Alberta-based agri-processing facilities may qualify for a 12 percent nonrefundable tax credit through APITC. The program supports:

• Large-scale infrastructure expansion
• Economic diversification
• Long-term job creation in rural and urban Alberta

Corporations have up to 10 years to claim up to $175 million in credits.

Scientific Research and Experimental Development (SR&ED) Tax Credit

Alberta agriculture businesses conducting R&D may be eligible for the SR&ED tax credit, which supports experimental projects in areas such as:

• Crop yield optimization
• Livestock health and productivity
• Soil and water conservation
• Automation and sustainable farming practices

Canadian-controlled private corporations (CCPCs) can receive up to a 35 percent refundable tax credit, while other corporations may access a 15 percent nonrefundable credit.

Agricultural Loans to Fuel Growth

Access to capital can be the difference between maintaining operations and scaling into new markets. These loan programs are tailored to help Alberta producers expand with confidence.

Western Business Scale-up and Productivity (BSP) Program

This federal loan program supports high-growth companies in Western Canada by offering:

• Up to 50 percent of project costs covered through interest-free repayable contributions
• Maximum funding of $5 million per project, with up to $10 million total per business

Eligible businesses must be incorporated, operating in Western Canada, and profitable for at least two years.

Agriculture Financial Services Corporation (AFSC) Lending

AFSC supports Alberta’s agriculture industry, since 1972, with a variety of lending options that help:

• New and existing producers expand their operations
• Agribusinesses invest in infrastructure and technology
• Strengthen rural economies with sustainable financing options

AFSC loans can be financed directly or in partnership with private lenders.

Let Ayming Canada Help You Access the Right Funding

Navigating the complexities of Alberta agriculture grant, tax credit, and loan funding programs can be overwhelming. That’s where Ayming Canada comes in. Our team of government funding specialists works with agricultural producers and processors across the country to maximize their funding potential and minimize risk.

If you’re investing in R&D, expanding your facility, or launching a new product line, Ayming Canada will help you identify the most lucrative programs, prepare strong applications, and ensure full compliance.

Let’s talk about how Ayming can support your growth. Contact us today for a free consultation.