Recommendation One
Explore establishing a centralized grant and funding information platform. This platform could gather internal and external funding opportunities, provide access to resources, and promote community engagement. The platform could also foster collective empowerment, prosperity, and sustainability within the small scale food processor industry.
Accessing grants and funding opportunities is pivotal for the growth and sustenance of the small scale food processor industry. However, the scattered nature of available resources across multiple platforms may pose challenges for processors in identifying and accessing relevant funding. To alleviate these barriers and foster a conducive environment for industry growth, establishing a centralized depository website or platform may be beneficial for small scale food processors. This platform could serve as a comprehensive resource hub, consolidating information on both internal programs offered by the BC Ministry of Agriculture and Food and external funding opportunities from various external program providers. By centralizing this information, processors could streamline their search process, optimize resource allocation, and enhance their prospects of securing essential funding for their projects and initiatives.