Communities across Canada continue to face increasing challenges to food security. By investing in local food production, communities are empowered to take charge of their food systems, supporting reliable access to nutritious sustenance.
Today, during a visit to Community Food Sharing Association in St. John's, Newfoundland, the Honourable Heath MacDonald, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, announced an investment of up to $30 million for 235 approved projects across Canada under the Local Food Infrastructure Fund (LFIF). This program helps to improve community food security by funding infrastructure that increases access to local, nutritious and culturally appropriate food.
Under the LFIF Large Scale Projects component, up to 58 projects are approved for a total amount of $17.5 million. This component provides funding between $150,000 and $500,000 to support projects with multiple infrastructure/equipment needs and partnerships to address community food security in a more comprehensive manner.
Under the LFIF Small Scale Projects component, up to 177 projects are approved for a total amount of $12.5 million. This component provides grant funding between $25,000 and $100,000 to support infrastructure projects, such as a community garden with an irrigation system, a greenhouse with solar panels, or a food forest.
On January 26, 2026, the Government of Canada announced an additional $20 million to support food banks and other national, regional, and local organizations to deliver more nutritious food to families in need. Details on program parameters and intake dates will be made available soon.
