2020–2021 Departmental Results Report – Details on Transfer Payment Programs

Transfer Payment Programs with total actual spending of $5 million or more

AgriAssurance Program (Voted)

General information - AgriAssurance program (Voted)
Start date April 1, 2018
End date March 31, 2023
Type of transfer payment Contribution
Type of appropriation Voted appropriation annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions 2017–18 (Terms and conditions approved)
Link to departmental result(s) The agriculture and agri-food sector is equipped with assurance systems and supporting tools
Link to the department's Program Inventory Assurance Program
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program The AgriAssurance Program provides support to the Canadian agriculture and agri-food sector in its endeavour to prevent and control risk to the animal and plant resource base, provide safe food and meet new market demands for assurance. The program also provides funding to support the Canadian sector in identifying, developing, verifying, disseminating and utilizing assurance systems, standards and related tools.
Results achieved In 2020-21, the AgriAssurance Program approved 17 projects (9 National Industry Association projects and 8 Small and Medium-sized Enterprise projects). This brings the cumulative total of approved projects up to 49 under this program. The percentage of assurance projects’ implementation plans reported to be functioning will be available in 2023.
Findings of audits completed in 2020–21 Nil.
Findings of evaluations completed in 2020–21 An evaluation is scheduled in 2021-22 and will be completed in February 2022.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2020–21

In 2020-21, recipients were surveyed to determine the impacts of the pandemic on the activities currently being completed under existing Contribution Agreements. Based on the findings of that survey, flexibilities were introduced such as project amendments, logistical support and increased cost share ratios.

Recipients are also engaged through emails, videoconferences, teleconferences and other outreach by the Department.

Financial information (dollars) — AgriAssurance Program (Voted)
Type of transfer payment 2018–19
Actual
spending
2019–20
Actual
spending
2020–21
Planned
spending
2020–21
Total
authorities available
for use
2020–21
Actual
spending (authorities used)
Variance
(2020–21 actual minus 2020–21 planned)
Total grants 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total contributions 2,468,647 11,062,530 12,280,000 12,979,362 10,461,921 (1,818,079)
Total other types of transfer payments 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total program 2,468,647 11,062,530 12,280,000 12,979,362 10,461,921 (1,818,079)
Explanation of variances

Actual spending was lower than planned spending since some of the approved project activities were shifted from year three to subsequent years. The Assurance Program also faced delays as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Agricultural Clean Technology Program (Voted)

General information - Agricultural Clean Technology program (Voted)
Start date April 1, 2018
End date March 31, 2021
Type of transfer payment Contribution
Type of appropriation Voted appropriation annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions 2018–19 (Terms and conditions amended)
Link to departmental result(s) The Canadian agriculture and agri-food sector is effective in transforming ideas into new products, processes or practices
Link to the department's Program Inventory Federal, Provincial and Territorial Cost-shared Science, Research, Innovation and Environment
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program

The objective of the Agricultural Clean Technology Program is to promote sustainable growth in Canada's agriculture and agri-food sector while helping drive the change required to achieve a low carbon economy, through investments in the areas of precision agriculture and agri-based bioproducts.

The Program provides non-repayable contributions to provincial and territorial governments to support activities along the innovation continuum - from research and development to commercialization, demonstration and adoption – with the aim of accelerating and contributing to the advancement and adoption of clean technologies in Canadian agriculture.

Results achieved
  • A ratio of 1:1.94 leveraged provincial/territorial investments against federal funding under the Agricultural Clean Technology (ACT) Program.
    • Before the amendment to the program (February 26, 2019), the program only had 2 projects which was not enough data to set baselines.
  • 16 agricultural clean technology projects that included the development, commercialization, demonstration and adoption of clean technologies.
    • ACT Program was intended to support projects that would result in incremental reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. It is very hard to measure actual impacts as most projects only had a year to complete their activities and submit their final reports, due no later than 6 months after the program closing date. The timeline did not allow for the necessary analytics to be completed. Furthermore, due to COVID-19 delays, some projects were not able to complete their activities by ACT Program sunset date of March 31, 2021.
Findings of audits completed in 2020–21 Nil.
Findings of evaluations completed in 2020–21 The Department evaluated the precursor to this program (the Agricultural Greenhouse Gases Program), and intends to evaluate the second iteration of the Agricultural Clean Technology Program in fiscal  year 2024-25.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2020–21 Applicants and recipients were engaged through correspondence, teleconferences, promotional material and other activities.
Financial information (dollars) — Agricultural Clean Technology Program (Voted)
Type of transfer payment 2018–19
Actual
spending
2019–20
Actual
spending
2020–21
Planned
spending
2020–21
Total
authorities available
for use
2020–21
Actual
spending (authorities used)
Variance
(2020–21 actual minus 2020–21 planned)
Total grants 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total contributions 288,500 1,022,591 9,000,000 11,171,000 7,315,157 (1,684,843)
Total other types of transfer payments 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total program 288,500 1,022,591 9,000,000 11,171,000 7,315,157 (1,684,843)
Explanation of variances Agricultural Clean Technology was a 3 year program which ended in 2020-21. As a result of the low uptake, the Terms and Conditions of the program were expanded. This enabled the program to attract more interest resulting in additional spending in 2020-21. However, due to COVID-19, actual spending was lower than planned spending.

Agricultural Disaster Relief Program / AgriRecovery (Statutory)

General information - Agricultural Disaster Relief Program / AgriRecovery (Statutory)
Start date April 1, 2018
End date March 31, 2023
Type of transfer payment Contribution
Type of appropriation Statutory authority (Farm Income Protection Act)
Fiscal year for terms and conditions 2017–18 (Terms and conditions approved)
Link to departmental result(s) The agricultural sector is financially resilient
Link to the department's Program Inventory AgriRecovery
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program

AgriRecovery is a disaster relief framework that allows governments to work efficiently together to assess the impacts of natural disasters on Canadian producers and respond when needed with targeted, disaster-specific initiatives. Initiatives developed under the program are intended to help producers beyond the support available through existing programming to cover the extraordinary costs necessary to recover from a disaster event and resume business operations as quickly as possible.

COVID-19 Programs:

The Cattle Set-Aside and Hog Recovery Programs under the AgriRecovery Program provide funding to manage livestock backed-up on farms, due to the temporary closure of food processing facilities during the COVID-19 pandemic. (start/end dates: May 5, 2020 to March 31, 2022)
Results achieved

Three AgriRecovery initiatives were completed in 2020-21, the 2018 Canada-British Columbia Wildfire Recovery Initiative, the 2018 Canada-British Columbia Bovine Tuberculosis Initiative and the 2018 Canada-Prince Edward Island Fall Harvest Recovery Initiative. AgriRecovery payments played an important role in the recovery of all affected producers, which exceeded the target of 70%. These initiatives met and exceeded the required performance criteria by providing timely, targeted support to assist producers to recover from wild fires that occurred in British Columbia in the summer of 2018, the discovery of Bovine Tuberculosis in British Columbia in the fall of 2018 and rainfall and extremely cold temperatures in Prince Edward Island during the 2018 harvest.

In 2020-21, governments continued the delivery of the 2019 Canada-British Columbia Forage Freight Assistance Initiative. Performance data is not yet available for this initiative, which continues to provide assistance to livestock producers in British Columbia’s Cariboo Region affected by excess moisture and flooding during the 2019 growing season.

Also in 2020-21, governments implemented five initiatives, the 2020 Canada-Alberta Fed Cattle Feed Cost Offset Initiative, the 2020 Canada-Saskatchewan Livestock Set Aside Program, the 2020 Canada-Manitoba Finished Cattle Feed Assistance Program, the 2020 Canada-Ontario COVID-19 Beef Emergency Feed Maintenance Initiative and the 2020 Canada-Ontario COVID-19 Hog Maintenance Initiative. These five initiatives are providing assistance to producers impacted by the temporary closure of food processing facilities during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Findings of audits completed in 2020–21 Nil.
Findings of evaluations completed in 2020–21 An evaluation is scheduled for 2022-23.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2020–21

The process for AgriRecovery begins when one or more provincial/territorial government(s) requests an assessment of a disaster event in writing. Once the request has been made, a joint federal and provincial/territorial task team conducts an AgriRecovery assessment.

As needed, the task team consults with affected producers, industry representatives and other department/agency representatives (for example, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency). The assessment looks at the impacts of the event on producers, the ability for them to recover quickly and the costs associated with those recovery activities as well as how existing programs will respond.

Generic information on the AgriRecovery Framework is available on Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada's website while the specifics on the initiatives are usually available on provincial/territorial governments' websites.

Financial information (dollars) — Agricultural Disaster Relief Program / AgriRecovery (Statutory)
Type of transfer payment 2018–19
Actual
spending
2019–20
Actual
spending
2020–21
Planned
spending
2020–21
Total
authorities available
for use
2020–21
Actual
spending (authorities used)
Variance
(2020–21 actual minus 2020–21 planned)
Total grants 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total contributions 894,000 9,418,344 118,513,335 (279,827) (279,827) (118,793,162)
Total contributions (COVID-19) 0 0 0 21,547,129 21,547,129 21,547,129
Total other types of transfer payments 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total program 894,000 9,418,344 118,513,335 21,267,302 21,267,302 (97,246,033)
Explanation of variances AgriRecovery is demand-driven. Spending under the framework varies from year to year depending on the need for disaster response initiatives. Actual spending was lower than planned spending as only six initiatives were delivered in 2020-21, of which five initiatives were implemented in response to COVID-19 and only 4 provinces participated in those five initiatives. The negative actual spending in 2020-21 reflects a credit from a previous year related to British Columbia wildfires.

AgriInnovate Program (Voted)

General information - AgriInnovate Program (Voted)
Start date April 1, 2018
End date March 31, 2023
Type of transfer payment Contribution
Type of appropriation Voted appropriation annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions 2017–18 (Terms and conditions approved)
Link to departmental result(s) The Canadian agriculture and agri-food sector is effective in transforming ideas into new products, processes or practices
Link to the department's Program Inventory AgriInnovate
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program The AgriInnovate Program accelerates the commercialization, adoption and/or demonstration of innovative products, technologies, processes or services that increase agri-sector competitiveness and sustainability.
Results achieved

Under the AgriInnovate Program, there has been a cumulative total of 19 innovative technologies (products, processes, practices or systems) and/or services implemented by participating firms.

Findings of audits completed in 2020–21 Nil.
Findings of evaluations completed in 2020–21 An evaluation is scheduled for 2023-24.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2020–21

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada communication efforts may include mail outs, news conferences or news releases.

Program clients are also being engaged through email, site visits, web presence, videoconferences, teleconferences and other outreach and project assessment and monitoring.

Additional efforts include broader industry engagement, including outreach to the series of Value Chain Roundtables, the Innovation and CleanTech Hub and other related industry associations.

Financial information (dollars) — AgriInnovate Program (Voted)
Type of transfer payment 2018–19
Actual
spending
2019–20
Actual
spending
2020–21
Planned
spending
2020–21
Total
authorities available
for use
2020–21
Actual
spending (authorities used)
Variance
(2020–21 actual minus 2020–21 planned)
Total grants 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total contributions 24,800,000 22,966,388 21,700,000 32,200,000 32,200,000 10,500,000
Total other types of transfer payments 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total program 24,800,000 22,966,388 21,700,000 32,200,000 32,200,000 10,500,000
Explanation of variances

Actual spending was greater than planned spending as uptake under this program has been high. Funding was reallocated between programs to further support projects that were in demand and considered key priorities.

AgriInsurance Program (Statutory)

General information - AgriInsurance Program (Statutory)
Start date April 1, 2018
End date March  31, 2023 (AgriInsurance is statutory and ongoing; however, the current policy and program authorities expire on this date.)
Type of transfer payment Contribution
Type of appropriation Statutory authority (Farm Income Protection Act)
Fiscal year for terms and conditions 2017–18 (Terms and conditions approved)
Link to departmental result(s) The agricultural sector is financially resilient
Link to the department's Program Inventory AgriInsurance
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program AgriInsurance provides Canadian producers with insurance coverage to reduce the economic impacts of production losses caused by adverse weather, crop diseases and other specified perils. AgriInsurance is a program that uses premiums to fund liabilities. Premiums are shared between governments and producers to ensure affordable coverage to producers, while administration costs are covered solely by governments. The commodities covered vary by province and continue to expand to cover new agricultural products.
Results achieved

There is a two year lag in reporting for the AgriInsurance Program due to the time required to compile the information.

  • The value of agricultural products eligible for insurance as a percentage of the value of all agricultural products produced (except livestock) was 88% in 2018-19. The target of 85% for this indicator was met.
  • The value of insured crop production as a percentage of the total value of all agricultural products eligible for insurance (excluding forage, pasture and livestock production) was 73.37% in 2018-19. This target of 75% is not met for the 2018-19 crop year however it is close to being met. The indicator excludes forage and pasture production that was overachieved at 23.21 (and the target for this specific group of commodity is 20). The factors used to measure the results are volatile however, they remain close to the target. It should also be noted that the results reporting of the final indicators will be two years after the Canadian Agricultural Partnership framework end date of March 2023 (due to the lag in the information).
  • In order to address industry feedback and increase program participation, governments are responding to meet specific industry needs by working towards putting forward program changes.
Findings of audits completed in 2020–21 Nil.
Findings of evaluations completed in 2020–21 An evaluation is scheduled for 2022-23.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2020–21

The AgriInsurance Program is provincially delivered. Federal and provincial officials meet monthly or as needed to discuss program policy and share information among provinces and Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada.

The Program website is up to date with current information available to producers including provincial contacts and general program details.

Business Risk Management Programs are generally marketed to producers as a package. In advance of key program deadlines, direct mail and advertising are used by administrators to raise program awareness, encourage enrolment and compliance with participation requirements (for example, meeting key deadlines). The program website, toll-free number, and media relations supports the promotional campaigns. Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada works with provinces and with third party delivery agencies to ensure a coordinated communications approach and to ensure federal identity on cost-shared programs.

The Department continues to build on the program websites as a key source of program information and on options for communicating information to program clients in order to support the Department's mandate to strengthen program service and delivery.

Communication activities comply with the Official Languages Act requirements. Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada also works with the National Program Advisory Committee to engage its producers.

Financial information (dollars) — AgriInsurance Program (Statutory)
Type of transfer payment 2018–19
Actual
spending
2019–20
Actual
spending
2020–21
Planned
spending
2020–21
Total
authorities available
for use
2020–21
Actual
spending (authorities used)
Variance
(2020–21 actual minus 2020–21 planned)
Total grants 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total contributions 664,580,115 666,672,139 623,000,000 645,912,746 645,912,746 22,912,746
Total other types of transfer payments 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total program 664,580,115 666,672,139 623,000,000 645,912,746 645,912,746 22,912,746
Explanation of variances Actual spending was greater than planned spending due to an increase in Wildlife Damage Compensation contributions in 2020-21, as well as an average increase in indemnity claims under the Canadian Agricultural Partnership (CAP) which has increased administration costs. The program has also had higher system maintenance and support costs and larger investments in capital expenditures, particularly as it relates to the renewal of their IT infrastructure.

AgriInvest Program (Statutory)

General information - AgriInvest Program (Statutory)
Start date April 1, 2018
End date March 31, 2023 (AgriInvest is statutory and ongoing; however, the current policy and program authorities expire on this date.)
Type of transfer payment Grant and Contribution
Type of appropriation Statutory authority (Farm Income Protection Act)
Fiscal year for terms and conditions 2017–18 (Terms and conditions approved)
Link to departmental result(s) The agricultural sector is financially resilient
Link to the department's Program Inventory AgriInvest
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program AgriInvest encourages Canadian producers to set money aside which they can draw upon for any reason including to recover from income declines or to make investments to reduce on-farm risks. Under the program, governments provide matching contributions to producers who make annual deposits to an AgriInvest savings account.
Results achieved

The following results are based on the preliminary numbers for the 2018 program year. There is a two year lag in reporting due to the time needed to complete the processing of all of the producer applications for a given year and to compile the data.

  • The value of government contributions as percent of maximum allowable contributions was 92.5%, surpassing the target of 85% and remaining fairly stable.
Findings of audits completed in 2020–21 Nil.
Findings of evaluations completed in 2020–21 An evaluation is scheduled in 2021-22 and will be completed in March 2022.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2020–21

Business Risk Management Programs are generally marketed to producers as a package. In advance of key program deadlines, direct mail and advertising are used by administrators to raise program awareness, encourage enrolment and compliance with participation requirements (for example, meeting key deadlines). The program website, My Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Account, toll-free number, and media relations will support the promotional campaigns. The My Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Account allows producers to get up to date information on-line for their AgriInvest Account.

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada works with provinces and with third party delivery agencies to ensure a coordinated communications approach and to ensure federal identity on cost-shared programs. The Department continues to build on the program websites and My Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Account as key sources of program information and on options for communicating information to program clients in order to support the Department's mandate to strengthen program service and delivery.

Communication activities comply with the Official Languages Act requirements. Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada also works with the National Program Advisory Committee to engage with producers and engages in consultations with national industry associations and producer groups on program directions and major program changes.

Financial information (dollars) — AgriInvest Program (Statutory)
Type of transfer payment 2018–19
Actual
spending
2019–20
Actual
spending
2020–21
Planned
spending
2020–21
Total
authorities available
for use
2020–21
Actual
spending (authorities used)
Variance
(2020–21 actual minus 2020–21 planned)
Total grants 156,427,977 139,295,221 122,910,000 129,092,905 129,092,905 6,182,905
Total contributions 18,706,452 18,386,441 16,550,000 26,338,404 26,338,404 9,788,404
Total other types of transfer payments 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total program 175,134,429 157,681,662 139,460,000 155,431,309 155,431,309 15,971,309
Explanation of variances AgriInvest is demand-driven and the variance from year-to-year in grant and contribution expenditures is directly related to both participation and commodity prices. Producer deposits and government contributions are based on a percentage of income generated from the sale of commodities for a production period (Allowable Net Sales). Actual spending was greater than planned spending due to higher participation and/or stronger sector performance than expected.

AgriMarketing program (Voted)

General information - AgriMarketing program (Voted)
Start date April 1, 2018
End date March 31, 2023
Type of transfer payment Contribution
Type of appropriation Voted appropriation annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions 2017–18 (Terms and conditions approved)
Link to departmental result(s) The Canadian agriculture and agri-food sector contributes to growing the economy
Link to the department's Program Inventory Trade and Market Expansion
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program The AgriMarketing Program provides matching non-repayable funding to industry to support industry-led market development activities that help the sector seize domestic and international opportunities, while leveraging Canada's reputation for high quality and safe food.
Results achieved

In 2020-21, the AgriMarketing Program (AMP) approved 45 National Industry Association (NIA) Projects. The Program is on track for meeting its target of 150 AMP-NIA projects over 5 years as 99 projects have been approved in the first 3 years of the Program. The Program supported 1477 market development activities in 2020-21. Agriculture and agri-food exports rose to $73.96 billion for the 2020 calendar year.

*Note: A few performance reports remain outstanding for the 2020-21 year, as such performance results above may change once all reports are received.
Findings of audits completed in 2020–21 Nil.
Findings of evaluations completed in 2020–21 An evaluation is scheduled for the 2022-23 fiscal year.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2020–21

In 2020-21, recipients were surveyed to determine the impacts of the pandemic on the activities currently being completed under existing Contribution Agreements. Based on that survey results, flexibilities were introduced such as a focus on domestic marketing activities, logistical support and increased cost share ratios. 

Recipients are also engaged through emails, videoconferences, teleconferences and other outreach by the Department.
Financial information (dollars) — AgriMarketing Program (Voted)
Type of transfer payment 2018–19
Actual
spending
2019–20
Actual
spending
2020–21
Planned
spending
2020–21
Total
authorities available
for use
2020–21
Actual
spending (authorities used)
Variance
(2020–21 actual minus 2020–21 planned)
Total grants 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total contributions 22,902,666 22,924,441 20,340,000 22,476,360 16,029,513 (4,310,487)
Total other types of transfer payments 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total program 22,902,666 22,924,441 20,340,000 22,476,360 16,029,513 (4,310,487)
Explanation of variances Actual spending was lower than planned spending due to cancellations and postponements of activities caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

AgriScience Program (Voted)

General information - AgriScience program (Voted)
Start date April 1, 2018
End date March 31, 2023
Type of transfer payment Contribution
Type of appropriation Voted appropriation annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions 2017–18 (Terms and conditions approved)
Link to departmental result(s) The Canadian agriculture and agri-food sector is effective in transforming ideas into new products, processes or practices.
Link to the department's Program Inventory AgriScience
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program

The AgriScience Program accelerates the pace of innovation in the sector by supporting industry-led research and development to increase market opportunities in the agriculture, agri-food and agri-based products sector.

The Program is delivered through two types of initiatives: the AgriScience – Clusters Component (Clusters) and the AgriScience – Projects Component (Projects). Clusters are national in scope and bring together scientific expertise from industry, academia and government to collaborate to address multiple industry priorities of a specific commodity (such as wheat, beef, et cetera) or cross-cutting issues (for example, bioproducts, food processing).

Projects may be individually led research projects or a small group of projects that are national, regional or local in scope.

Results achieved

In 2020-21, under the AgriScience Program, 374 papers were published in peer-reviewed journals bringing the program’s cumulative total to 859. In addition, 76 new technologies (products, practices, processes and systems) were developed under funded activities bringing the cumulative total to 149.

Findings of audits completed in 2020–21 Nil.
Findings of evaluations completed in 2020–21 An evaluation is scheduled in 2021-22 and will be completed in January 2022.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2020–21

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada communications efforts may include mail outs, news conferences or news releases.

Program clients are engaged through email, site visits, web presence or other outreach, and through project assessment and monitoring. Recipients of AgriScience cluster funding also participate in an annual meeting with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada representatives.

Additional efforts include broader industry engagement, including outreach to the series of Value Chain Roundtables, companies and industry associations.

Financial information (dollars) — AgriScience Program (Voted)
Type of transfer payment 2018–19
Actual
spending
2019–20
Actual
spending
2020–21
Planned
spending
2020–21
Total
authorities available
for use
2020–21
Actual
spending (authorities used)
Variance
(2020–21 actual minus 2020–21 planned)
Total grants 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total contributions 24,353,890 41,706,960 40,755,000 46,273,706 36,382,024 (4,372,976)
Total other types of transfer payments 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total program 24,353,890 41,706,960 40,755,000 46,273,706 36,382,024 (4,372,976)
Explanation of variances Actual spending was lower than planned spending due to a realignment of programs and delayed project activities as a result of COVID-19. 

AgriStability Program (Statutory)

General information - AgriStability Program (Statutory)
Start date April 1, 2018
End date March 31, 2023 (AgriStability is statutory and ongoing; however, the current policy and program authorities expire on this date.)
Type of transfer payment Grant and Contribution
Type of appropriation Statutory authority (Farm Income Protection Act)
Fiscal year for terms and conditions 2017–18 (Terms and conditions approved)
Link to departmental result(s) The agricultural sector is financially resilient
Link to the department's Program Inventory AgriStability
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program

AgriStability is intended to help Canadian producers to manage financial risks that threaten the viability of their farm by helping them protect their farm operations against large declines in farm income. Under the program, governments provide assistance when a producer's margin falls below seventy percent of their historical reference margin. Generally, producers who derive income from the primary production of agricultural commodities are eligible to participate in the program.

Results achieved

The following results are based on the preliminary numbers for the 2018 program year. There is a two year lag in reporting due to the time needed to complete the processing of all of the producer applications for a given year and to compile the data.
Overall, the farm market revenues of program participants represented 46% of all eligible farm market revenue, which is below the target of 65% and below 2017 levels of 47%.

Participation in AgriStability has remained low in both Growing Forward 2 and the Canadian Agricultural Partnership (CAP), due in part to program changes and favourable market conditions. In 2021, Ministers agreed to remove the Reference Margin Limit, retroactive to the 2020 program year. This change will make the program more equitable and easier to understand and may help to increase program participation.
Findings of audits completed in 2020–21 Nil.
Findings of evaluations completed in 2020–21 An evaluation is scheduled in 2021-22 and will be completed in March 2022.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2020–21

Program changes in 2020-21 were communicated directly to AgriStability participants in the provinces where Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) delivers the program through direct mail-outs to producers. Three webinars explaining the program and assisting producers and accountants in completing the required program forms were also organised in the time period.

Business Risk Management Programs are generally marketed to producers as a package. In advance of key program deadlines, direct mail and advertising are used by administrators to raise program awareness, and encourage enrolment and compliance with participation requirements (for example, meeting key deadlines). The Program website, My AAFC Account, toll-free number, and media relations will support the promotional campaigns. The My AAFC Account allows producers to get up-to-date information online for their AgriStability account.

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada works with provinces and with third party delivery agencies to ensure a coordinated communications approach and to ensure federal identity on cost-shared programs. The Department continues to build on the program websites and My AAFC Account as a key source of program information and on options for communicating information to program clients in order to support the Department's mandate to strengthen program service and delivery.

Communication activities comply with the Official Languages Act requirements. Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada also works with the National Program Advisory Committee to engage with producers and engages in consultations with national industry associations and producer groups on program direction and major program changes.

Financial information (dollars) — AgriStability Program (Statutory)
Type of transfer payment 2018–19
Actual
spending
2019–20
Actual
spending
2020–21
Planned
spending
2020–21
Total
authorities available
for use
2020–21
Actual
spending (authorities used)
Variance (2020–21
actual minus 2020–21 planned)
Total grants 34,465,156 33,361,215 39,320,000 25,870,749 25,870,749 (13,449,251)
Total contributions 180,779,188 161,471,302 384,830,000 189,939,788 189,939,788 (194,890,212)
Total other types of transfer payments 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total program 215,244,344 194,832,517 424,150,000 215,810,537 215,810,537 (208,339,463)
Explanation of variances AgriStability is demand-driven, rather than being funded from a set allocation for each fiscal year. Although the administrative costs of the program remain relatively constant, the variance of year-to-year grant and contribution payments is directly related to participation and industry conditions. Actual spending was lower than planned spending due to a decrease in demand and participation in the program.

Canadian Agricultural Strategic Priorities Program (previously known as Canadian Agricultural Adaptation Program) (Voted)

General information - Canadian Agricultural Strategic Priorities program
Start date May 28, 2009
End date Ongoing (Subject to Minister's renewal every five years)
Type of transfer payment Contribution
Type of appropriation Voted appropriation annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions 2018–19 (Terms and conditions amended)
Link to departmental result(s) The Canadian agriculture and agri-food sector is effective in transforming ideas into new products, processes or practices
Link to the department's Program Inventory Canadian Agricultural Strategic Priorities Program
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program

The Canadian Agricultural Strategic Priorities Program supports the agricultural sector to adapt to new and emerging issues, opportunities and challenges in order to remain competitive. The program funds national or sector-wide projects to develop a new idea, product, niche, or market opportunity or respond to new and emerging issues.

COVID-19 Programs:

Emergency On-Farm Support Fund – see also this program’s related Statutory table.

Emergency Processing Fund – see also this program’s related Statutory table.

Results achieved

In 2020-21, the second year of reporting under the Canadian Agricultural Strategic Priorities Program, 12 tools/strategies (training materials, methodologies, etc.) were developed to adapt to changing circumstances and/or respond to urgent and/or critical issues. This brings the program’s cumulative total to 13.

Findings of audits completed in 2019–20 Nil.
Findings of evaluations completed in 2020–21

An evaluation is scheduled for 2023-24.

Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2019–20 Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada communication efforts may include mail outs, news conferences or news releases. Program clients will also be engaged through email, site visits, web presence, videoconferences, teleconferences or other outreach and project assessment and monitoring.
Financial information (dollars) — Canadian Agricultural Strategic Priorities Program
(previously known as Canadian Agricultural Adaptation program) (Voted)
Type of transfer payment 2018–19
Actual
spending
2019–20
Actual
spending
2020–21
Planned
spending
2020–21
Total
authorities available
for use
2020–21
Actual
spending (authorities used)
Variance
(2020–21 actual minus 2020–21 planned)
Total grants 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total contributions 3,314,594 546,135 9,061,000 19,846,000 3,278,424 (5,782,576)
Total contributions (COVID-19) 0 0 0 56,350,546 46,579,290 46,579,290
Total other types of transfer payments 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total program 3,314,594 546,135 9,061,000 76,196,546 49,857,714 40,796,714
Explanation of variances Actual spending was greater than planned spending as it reflects emergency support provided in response to COVID-19 under the Emergency Processing Fund and the Emergency On-Farm Support Fund.

Contributions to support Investments in the Dairy Sector (Voted)

General information - Contributions to support Investments in the Dairy Sector (Voted)
Start date April 1, 2017
End date March 31, 2022
Type of transfer payment Contribution
Type of appropriation Voted appropriation annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions 2017–18 (Terms and conditions approved)
Link to departmental result(s) The Canadian agriculture and agri-food sector contributes to growing the economy.
Link to the department's Program Inventory Dairy Programs
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program

The Dairy Programs consist of the Dairy Farm Investment Program and the Dairy Processing Investment Fund, which are designed to encourage investment by dairy farmers and dairy processors to improve productivity and competitiveness.

The Dairy Farm Investment Program (2017-18 to 2021-22) supports dairy farmers to modernize their operations and improve their productivity through activities such as the adoption of robotic milkers, automated feeding systems, herd management tools, or other equipment upgrades.

The Dairy Processing Investment Fund (2017-18 to 2021-22) supports dairy processors as they modernize their facilities and conduct near-market activities to introduce new and improved products that will compete with expected imports. The program supports access to technical expertise and the purchase of new equipment in order to expand processing capacity and diversify product lines to capture new market opportunities.

Results achieved

In 2020-21, the Dairy Farm Investment Program approved 96 projects, bringing the program's cumulative total of approved projects to 3,419. Of these, 2,594 (cumulative total representing 2018-19, 2019-20 and 2020-21) are now complete. Additional details on the results of these projects (i.e., production cost savings) will be available by the end of 2021.

As of 2020-21, there is insufficient data to report on the adoption of technologies new to the sector and the increase in volume of industrial or fluid milk and milk components used in production as results will not be reported until projects reach completion.

Under the Dairy Processing Investment Fund, 19 facilities and not-for- profits applied for and received funding in 2020-21, bringing the program's cumulative total of funded facilities to 101. This exceeds the program's initial target of 51 because in the later years of the Program, projects were approved for smaller amounts of funding than planned at the outset, to ensure a larger distribution of funds across processing firms.

As of 2020-21, participating dairy processors have experienced a 6% reduction in total cost per dairy product unit, and have increased the use of fluid or industrial milk and milk components by 63%.

Findings of audits completed in 2020–21 Nil.
Findings of evaluations completed in 2020–21 An evaluation is scheduled for 2023-24.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2020–21

Dairy Farm Investment Program
Recipients expressed challenges in completing their projects due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada used its administrative practices and remained flexible to address these challenges. Program clients are also being engaged through email, site visits, web presence or other outreach and project assessment and monitoring.

Dairy Processing Investment Fund
As a result of the pandemic, numerous recipients faced delays in their projects preventing them from meeting their commitments to their contribution agreements. A request to extend the program by a year, with no additional funding attached, was approved by Treasury Board Secretariat. As all funds were committed, the engagement with program clients was focused on monitoring projects for approved recipients and was done through emails and phone calls.

Financial information (dollars) — Contributions to support Investments in the Dairy Sector (Voted)
Type of transfer payment 2018–19
Actual
spending
2019–20
Actual
spending
2020–21
Planned
spending
2020–21
Total
authorities available
for use
2020–21
Actual
spending (authorities used)
Variance
(2020–21 actual minus 2020–21 planned)
Total grants 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total contributions 94,390,172 83,229,312 72,600,000 66,579,000 57,713,268 (14,886,732)
Total other types of transfer payments 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total program 94,390,172 83,229,312 72,600,000 66,579,000 57,713,268 (14,886,732)
Explanation of variances Actual spending was lower than planned spending due to shifts in the timing of projects, partly resulting from COVID-19 constraints.

Dairy Direct Payment Program (Statutory)

General information - Dairy Direct Payment Program (Statutory)
Start date August 16, 2019
End date March 31, 2023
Type of transfer payment Grant
Type of appropriation Statutory authority (Farm Income Protection Act)
Fiscal year for terms and conditions 2019–20 (Terms and conditions approved)
Link to departmental result(s) The Canadian agriculture and agri-food sector contributes to growing the economy
Link to the department's Program Inventory Dairy Programs
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program The objective of the Dairy Direct Payment Program is to support dairy milk producers as a result of market access commitments made under the Canada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement and the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership. The Program will provide grant payments to compensate Canadian cow's milk producers for their foregone income growth as a result of the recent trade agreements.
Results achieved

The Dairy Direct Payment Program met its objective:

  • 96% of the farms eligible for compensation registered for the Program through the Canadian Dairy Commission.
  • Of those, 100% of the farms identified by the Canadian Dairy Commission received direct payments.
Findings of audits completed in 2020–21 Nil.
Findings of evaluations completed in 2020–21 Nil.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2020–21

Consultations were done with national stakeholders and milk marketing boards prior to the Dairy Direct Payment Program being launched and payments delivered by the Canadian Dairy Commission.

In November 2020, the Government announced the payment schedule for the remaining $1.405 billion in Program funding for fiscal years 2020-21, 2021-22, and 2022-23.
Financial information (dollars) — Dairy Direct Payment Program (Statutory)
Type of transfer payment 2018–19
Actual
spending
2019–20
Actual
spending
2020–21
Planned
spending
2020–21
Total
authorities available
for use
2020–21
Actual
spending (authorities used)
Variance
(2020–21 actual minus 2020–21 planned)
Total grants 0 338,634,953 0 459,400,130 459,400,130 459,400,130
Total contributions 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total other types of transfer payments 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total program 338,634,953 0 459,400,130 459,400,130 459,400,130
Explanation of variances There was no planned spending for the Dairy Direct Payment Program as it was approved during the fiscal year 2020-21.

Emergency Food Security Fund (Public Health Events of National Concern Payments Act) (Statutory)

General information - Emergency Food Security Fund (Public Health Events of National Concern Payments Act) (Statutory) (Voted)
Start date April 1, 2020
End date December 31, 2020
Type of transfer payment Contribution
Type of appropriation Statutory authority (Public Health Events of National Concern Payments Act)
Fiscal year for terms and conditions Not Available
Link to departmental result(s) The Canadian agriculture and agri-food sector contributes to growing the economy.
Link to the department's Program Inventory Food Policy Initiatives
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program

The Emergency Food Security Fund (EFSF) was created to support national, regional, and local organizations across Canada that are able to reach people and communities experiencing food insecurity due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The funding supported the purchase and distribution of food on an emergency basis across the country.

See also this program's related information under Food Policy Initiatives - Local Food Infrastructure Fund (Voted)

Results achieved

In 2020-21, 3,744 initiatives were approved to support local food organizations across the country with food and/or funding for food purchases and delivery.

Note that some recipients received funding through more than one project, especially between the two rounds of EFSF funding, so the number of projects does not indicate the number of unique local food organizations that received food or funding.
Findings of audits completed in 2020–21 Nil.
Findings of evaluations completed in 2020–21 Nil.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2020–21

AAFC consulted with the Canadian Food Rescue Alliance Task Force, which helped in the assessment of the situation with surplus food combined with the increased pressure on food serving organizations/charities as a result of the pandemic. In addition, the department was in communication with national food serving organizations about Canada’s food insecurity landscape as a result of COVID-19.

The Prime Minister announced a $100M top up to EFSF on October 9th, 2020, and then on December 18th, the Minister announced the details of the program which were then also posted on the AAFC website.

In addition, there was a social media plan that was used whereby information about the EFSF was posted on Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter.

Financial information (dollars) — Emergency Food Security Fund (Public Health Events of National Concern Payments Act) (Statutory)
Type of transfer payment 2018–19
Actual
spending
2019–20
Actual
spending
2020–21
Planned
spending
2020–21
Total
authorities available
for use
2020–21
Actual
spending (authorities used)
Variance
(2020–21 actual minus 2020–21 planned)
Total grants 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total contributions 0 0 0 125,000,000 125,000,000 125,000,000
Total other types of transfer payments 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total program 0 0 0 125,000,000 125,000,000 125,000,000
Explanation of variances There was no planned spending as it was emergency support provided during the year in response to COVID-19.

Emergency On-Farm Support Fund (Public Health Events of National Concern Payments Act) (Statutory)

General information - Emergency On-Farm Support Fund (Public Health Events of National Concern Payments Act) (Statutory)
Start date March 15, 2020
End date December 31, 2020
Type of transfer payment Contribution
Type of appropriation Statutory authority (Public Health Events of National Concern Payments Act)
Fiscal year for terms and conditions Not Available
Link to departmental result(s) The Canadian agriculture and agri-food sector is effective in transforming ideas into new products, processes or practices
Link to the department's Program Inventory Canadian Agricultural Strategic Priorities Program
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program

The Emergency On-Farm Support Fund supports additional enhanced on-farm mitigation activities to improve the health and safety of all farm workers, domestic and Temporary Foreign Workers, by limiting the spread of COVID-19 in agricultural operations.

See also this program's related information under the Canadian Agricultural Strategic Priorities Program (Voted)

Results achieved

The funding provided through the Emergency On-Farm Support Fund contributed to the sustained, and in some cases increased, productivity and the number of hours worked per employee during the pandemic.

Findings of audits completed in 2020–21 Nil.
Findings of evaluations completed in 2020–21 Nil.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2020–21

Provinces and Territories along with third-party delivery agent were engaged in the design and delivery of the program prior to the launch of the program.

Financial information (dollars) — Emergency On-Farm Support Fund (Public Health Events of National Concern Payments Act) (Statutory)
Type of transfer payment 2018–19
Actual
spending
2019–20
Actual
spending
2020–21
Planned
spending
2020–21
Total
authorities available
for use
2020–21
Actual
spending (authorities used)
Variance
(2020–21 actual minus 2020–21 planned)
Total grants 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total contributions 0 0 0 5,000,000 5,000,000 5,000,000
Total other types of transfer payments 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total program 0 0 0 5,000,000 5,000,000 5,000,000
Explanation of variances There was no planned spending as it was emergency support provided during the year in response to COVID-19.

Emergency Processing Fund (Public Health Events of National Concern Payments Act) (Statutory)

General information - Emergency Processing Fund (Public Health Events of National Concern Payments Act) (Statutory)
Start date March 15, 2020
End date December 31, 2020
Type of transfer payment Contribution
Type of appropriation Statutory authority (Public Health Events of National Concern Payments Act)
Fiscal year for terms and conditions Not Available
Link to departmental result(s) The Canadian agriculture and agri-food sector is effective in transforming ideas into new products, processes or practices
Link to the department's Program Inventory Canadian Agricultural Strategic Priorities Program
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program

The Emergency Processing Fund supported food processors/producers to manage new challenges and adapt to health protocols to protect the health and safety of workers and respond to emerging pressures from COVID-19. It also incented strategic investments to maintain and increase domestic food production and processing capacity of goods critical to domestic food security during the COVID-19 pandemic.

See also this program's related information under the Canadian Agricultural Strategic Priorities Program (Voted)

Results achieved Funding committed in 2020-21, under the Emergency Processing Fund, resulted in 1,963 tools, processes, equipment and/or strategies being implemented to adapt to COVID-19 or to increase domestic food production and processing capacity.
Findings of audits completed in 2020–21 Nil.
Findings of evaluations completed in 2020–21 Nil.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2020–21

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada communication efforts included mail outs, news conferences or news releases. Program clients were also engaged through email, web presence, videoconferences, teleconferences and through project assessment and monitoring.

Financial information (dollars) — Emergency Processing Fund (Public Health Events of National Concern Payments Act) (Statutory)
Type of transfer payment 2018–19
Actual
spending
2019–20
Actual
spending
2020–21
Planned
spending
2020–21
Total
authorities available
for use
2020–21
Actual
spending (authorities used)
Variance
(2020–21 actual minus 2020–21 planned)
Total grants 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total contributions 0 0 0 62,500,000 62,500,000 62,500,000
Total other types of transfer payments 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total program 0 0 0 62,500,000 62,500,000 62,500,000
Explanation of variances There was no planned spending as it was emergency support provided during the year in response to COVID-19.

Food Policy Initiatives – Local Food Infrastructure Fund (Voted)

General information - Food Policy Initiatives – Local Food Infrastructure Fund (Voted)
Start date June 17, 2019
End date March 31, 2024
Type of transfer payment Grant and Contributions
Type of appropriation Voted appropriation annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions 2019–20 (Terms and conditions approved)
Link to departmental result(s) The Canadian agriculture and agri-food sector contributes to growing the economy.
Link to the department's Program Inventory Food Policy Initiatives
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program

The Local Food Infrastructure Fund strengthens food systems and facilitates access to safe and nutritious food for at-risk populations.

The fund supports community-based, not-for-profit organizations to improve their food systems through investments in infrastructure that are directly related to addressing food insecurities and increasing the accessibility of healthy, nutritious, and ideally, local foods within their community.

COVID-19 Programs:

Results achieved

In the program’s second year, 395 investments in local food infrastructure were made to increase the availability of healthy and nutritious food.

Findings of audits completed in 2020–21 Nil.
Findings of evaluations completed in 2020–21 An evaluation is scheduled for FY 2023-24.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2020–21

At the launch of the second intake period for the program in June 2020, the program sent out a mass mail out to a list of stakeholders which included various food security organizations, other government groups and Indigenous groups.

Financial information (dollars) — Food Policy Initiatives – Local Food Infrastructure Fund (Voted)
Type of transfer payment 2018–19
Actual
spending
2019–20
Actual
spending
2020–21
Planned
spending
2020–21
Total
authorities available
for use
2020–21
Actual
spending (authorities used)
Variance
(2020–21 actual minus 2020–21 planned)
Total grants 0 0 8,785,440 2,002,065 1,970,243 (6,815,197)
Total contributions 0 869,541 2,196,360 11,979,735 9,086,678 6,890,318
Total contributions (COVID-19) 0 25,000,000 0 16,456,952 16,456,952 16,456,952
Total other types of transfer payments 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total program 0 25,869,541 10,981,800 30,438,752 27,513,873 16,532,073
Explanation of variances

Actual spending was greater than planned spending as it reflects emergency support provided in response to COVID-19 for emergency food banks and local food organizations (Emergency Food Security Fund) and the Surplus Food Rescue Program.

Mandatory Isolation Support for Temporary Foreign Workers Program (Public Health Events of National Concern Payments Act) (Statutory)

General information - Mandatory Isolation Support for Temporary Foreign Workers Program (Public Health Events of National Concern Payments Act) (Statutory)
Start date March 26, 2020
End date December 31, 2020
Type of transfer payment Contribution
Type of appropriation Statutory authority (Public Health Events of National Concern Payments Act)
Fiscal year for terms and conditions Not Available
Link to departmental result(s) The agricultural sector is financially resilient
Link to the department's Program Inventory Mandatory Isolation Support for Temporary Foreign Workers
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program

The Program assists Canadian employers with some of the incremental costs associated with the mandatory 14-day isolation period imposed under the Quarantine Act on temporary foreign workers upon entering Canada.

See also this program's related information under the Mandatory Isolation Support for Temporary Foreign Workers Program (Voted)

Results achieved

In April 2020, the Government of Canada announced $50 million for the Mandatory Isolation Support for Temporary Foreign Workers Program, and the 2020 Fall Economic Statement committed to providing up to an additional $34.4M to continue the Program until March 31, 2021. The Program was further extended until April 21, 2021, and Budget 2021 provided for an additional $57.6M to extend the Program until August 31, 2021, when the Program ended.

As of April 1, 2021, a total of 4,467 projects were approved for up to $77.9 million.

Findings of audits completed in 2020–21 Nil.
Findings of evaluations completed in 2020–21 Nil.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2020–21

The Program engages stakeholders through emails, videoconferences, teleconferences and other outreach by the Department. They are also engaged through the COVID-19 Industry Roundtable.

Financial information (dollars) — Mandatory Isolation Support for Temporary Foreign Workers Program (Public Health Events of National Concern Payments Act) (Statutory)
Type of transfer payment 2018–19
Actual
spending
2019–20
Actual
spending
2020–21
Planned
spending
2020–21
Total
authorities available
for use
2020–21
Actual
spending (authorities used)
Variance
(2020–21 actual minus 2020–21 planned)
Total grants 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total contributions 0 0 0 36,875,444 36,875,444 36,875,444
Total other types of transfer payments 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total program 0 0 0 36,875,444 36,875,444 36,875,444
Explanation of variances There was no planned spending as it was emergency support provided during the year in response to COVID-19.

Mandatory Isolation Support for Temporary Foreign Workers Program (Voted)

General information - Mandatory Isolation Support for Temporary Foreign Workers Program (Voted)
Start date March 26, 2020
End date August 31, 2021
Type of transfer payment Contribution
Type of appropriation Voted appropriation annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions 2020-21 (Terms and conditions approved)
Link to departmental result(s) The agricultural sector is financially resilient
Link to the department's Program Inventory Mandatory Isolation Support for Temporary Foreign Workers
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program

The Program assists Canadian employers with some of the incremental costs associated with the mandatory 14-day isolation period imposed under the Quarantine Act on temporary foreign workers upon entering Canada.

See also this program's related information under the Mandatory Isolation Support for Temporary Foreign Workers Program (Statutory)

Results achieved

In April 2020, the Government of Canada announced $50 million for the Mandatory Isolation Support for Temporary Foreign Workers Program, and the 2020 Fall Economic Statement committed to providing up to an additional $34.4M to continue the Program until March 31, 2021. The Program was further extended until April 21, 2021, and Budget 2021 provided for an additional $57.6M to extend the Program until August 31, 2021, when the Program ended.

As of April 1, 2021, a total of 4,467 projects were approved for up to $77.9 million.

Findings of audits completed in 2020–21 Nil.
Findings of evaluations completed in 2020–21 Nil.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2020–21

The Program engages stakeholders through emails, videoconferences, teleconferences and other outreach by the Department. They are also engaged through the COVID-19 Industry Round Table.

Financial information (dollars) — Mandatory Isolation Support for Temporary Foreign Workers Program (Voted)
Type of transfer payment 2018–19
Actual
spending
2019–20
Actual
spending
2020–21
Planned
spending
2020–21
Total
authorities available
for use
2020–21
Actual
spending (authorities used)
Variance
(2020–21 actual minus 2020–21 planned)
Total grants 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total contributions 0 0 0 44,824,556 34,793,144 34,793,144
Total other types of transfer payments 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total program 0 0 0 44,824,556 34,793,144 34,793,144
Explanation of variances There was no planned spending as it was emergency support provided during the year in response to COVID-19.

Payments in connection with the Agricultural Marketing Programs Act – Advance Payments Program (Statutory)

General information - Payments in connection with the Agricultural Marketing Programs Act – Advance Payments Program (Statutory)
Start date April 25, 1997
End date Ongoing
Type of transfer payment Contribution
Type of appropriation Statutory authority (Agricultural Marketing Programs Act)
Fiscal year for terms and conditions Not applicable
Link to departmental result(s) The agricultural sector is financially resilient
Link to the department's Program Inventory Loan Guarantee Programs
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program

There are two programs under the Agricultural Marketing Programs Act:

  • The Advance Payments Program provides producers with access to credit through cash advances based on the value of their agricultural products. This enables producers to meet financial obligations and allows them to make the decision to sell agricultural products based on market conditions rather than the need for cash flow.
  • The Price Pooling Program provides cooperative marketing agencies with a price guarantee on eligible products as a form of security against unanticipated declines in the market price for their products. This helps them to secure financing to issue initial payments to their producer members as they deliver product to the cooperative marketing pools.
Results achieved

Advance Payments Program
In 2020-21, the Department, through the Advance Payments Program and in partnership with 33 third-party administrators, continued to provide eligible agricultural producers with access to timely, low cost loans to help them with their cash-flow needs over their production periods and provide them with additional flexibility to find the best markets for their agricultural products.

The performance indicators and results:

  • Dollar value of Advance Payments Program advances issued per production period: $2.612 billion (minimum target: $2.163 billion)

Price Pooling Program
For 2020-21, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada entered into two Price Guarantee Agreements with marketing agencies for total guarantees valued at $45.8 million. Participating marketing agencies did not make any claims to Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada against the price guarantee during the program year.

The performance indicator and results:

  • Number of days between delivery of product(s) to pool and producer receiving payment: 7 days (maximum target: 30 days)
Findings of audits completed in 2020–21 Nil.
Findings of evaluations completed in 2020–21

The evaluation completed in 2020-21 found:

  • The Advance Payments Program improves access to affordable short-term credit for Canadian agricultural producers, notably for beginning farmers and those who do not have sufficient farming experience and/or collateral required for traditional loans.
  • The Advance Payments Program aligns with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada and Government of Canada priorities, roles, and responsibilities and complements programs in the Business Risk Management suite.
  • The Advance Payments Program delivery model is relatively low cost to deliver funding. However, inconsistencies among administrators result in disparities in delivery across the program that ultimately affect producers and the Department.
  • The advance limits for the Advance Payments Program were found to be sufficient for the majority of producers. Most of the estimated benefits for participants came from delayed marketing, with a secondary benefit of favourable interest rates.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2020–21

The primary marketing channel for the Advance Payments Program is through the approximately 33 producer organizations who administrator the program. Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) supports these efforts in a variety of ways to encourage awareness and uptake, including: social media campaigns (for example, Facebook, Twitter); print advertising in farm publications; as well as print-on-demand fact sheets that help maintain common messaging and brand identity.

AAFC undertook a Marketing and Advertising campaign for the APP in late summer 2020, which included social media posts, direct digital mailouts and an article in Agri-Info.
Each year, AAFC officials also attend two or three selected industry trade shows/ annual general meetings to communicate the benefits of the program directly to producers and to learn and gather feedback from producers on the program. AAFC did not attend any trade shows or annual general meetings in 2020-21 due to Covid-19 restrictions.

In 2020-21, AAFC began a review of Agricultural Marketing Program Act programs, as required under the Act. This legislative review will include surveying and holding follow-up online engagement sessions to obtain input from lenders (financial institutions), Advance Payments Program Administrators and other producer organizations, and producers. It is expected that the review will be completed no later than Spring 2022.

Financial information (dollars) — Payments in connection with the Agricultural Marketing Programs Act – Advance Payments Program (Statutory)
Type of transfer payment 2018–19
Actual
spending
2019–20
Actual
spending
2020–21
Planned
spending
2020–21
Total
authorities available
for use
2020–21
Actual
spending (authorities used)
Variance
(2020–21 actual minus 2020–21 planned)
Total grants 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total contributions 36,234,391 62,650,051 90,300,000 24,226,244 24,226,244 (66,073,756)
Total other types of transfer payments 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total program 36,234,391 62,650,051 90,300,000 24,226,244 24,226,244 (66,073,756)
Explanation of variances Actual spending was lower than planned spending due to current low interest rates and several stays of default which extended the repayment deadlines, resulting in lower defaults and loan guarantee payments under the Advance Payments Program.

Provincial/Territorial delivered cost-shared programs under the Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Voted)

General information - Provincial/Territorial delivered cost-shared programs under the Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Voted)
Start date April 1, 2018
End date March 31, 2023
Type of transfer payment Contribution
Type of appropriation Voted appropriation annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions 2017–18 (Terms and conditions approved)
Link to departmental result(s)

The Canadian agriculture and agri-food sector contributes to growing the economy

The Canadian agriculture and agri-food sector is effective in transforming ideas into new products, processes or practices

The agricultural sector is financially resilient

The agriculture and agri-food sector is equipped with assurance systems and supporting tools

Link to the department's Program Inventory
  • Federal, Provincial and Territorial Cost-shared Markets and Trade
  • Federal, Provincial and Territorial Cost-shared Science, Research, Innovation and Environment
  • Federal, Provincial and Territorial Cost-Shared Assurance
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program

Federal, Provincial and Territorial Cost-shared Markets and Trade:

  • Transfer payments are provided to the provinces and territories for programming to assist the Canadian agricultural sector in creating market-based opportunities for individual farms and firms, and providing industry with the knowledge and tools to compete at home and abroad. Specific provincial and/or territorial programs support the sector in identifying new domestic and global opportunities that enhance competitiveness and prosperity.

Federal, Provincial and Territorial Cost-shared Science, Research, Innovation and Environment:

  • Transfer payments are provided to the provinces and territories for programming to accelerate the pace of innovation in the Canadian agriculture and agri-food sector. A key focus of such innovation is the research, development and commercialization of products, practices, processes and systems that enhance productivity, competitiveness, economic growth and adaptability to environment and climate change in the sector.

Federal, Provincial and Territorial Cost-Shared Assurance:

  • Transfer payments are provided to the provinces and territories for agricultural assurance programming to develop tools and support proactive mitigation activities. Specific provincial or territorial programs support the sector in its endeavors to prevent and control risks to the animal and plant resource base, provide safe food, and meet new market demands for assurance.
Results achieved

In 2020-21, Federal, Provincial and Territorial Cost-Shared Programs achieved the following results:

Markets and Trade

  • Number of clients reporting that market information and intelligence meets needs for awareness and knowledge of market opportunities: this new indicator will be measured through a Client Impact Survey currently in development with Statistics Canada. Results will be available at the end of the framework. The results of the survey will set the baseline for subsequent performance measures.

Science, Research, Innovation and Environment

  • Number of new technologies (products, practices, processes and systems) that attain Intellectual Property protection: 149, continuing to meet annual targets and has met framework expectations. Reporting is one year behind (results for 2019-20 will be reported in 2020-21) as provinces and territories are only required to report on their programs by August 31 of the following fiscal year as per the bilateral agreements.

Assurance

  • Number of risk management/assurance projects completed on-farm: 2,277, meeting annual target expectations through two years of the framework (2018-19 and 2019-20) and is on track to achieve framework targets. Reporting is one year behind (results for 2019-20 will be reported in 2020-21) as provinces and territories are only required to report on their programs by August 31 of the following fiscal year as per the bilateral agreements.
  • Number of risk management/assurance projects completed at processing facilities: 440, meeting annual expectations in 2019-20 and is on track to achieve framework targets. Reporting is one year behind (results for 2019-20 will be reported in 2020-21) as provinces and territories are only required to report on their programs by August 31 of the following fiscal year as per the bilateral agreements.
Findings of audits completed in 2020–21 Nil.
Findings of evaluations completed in 2020–21 An evaluation is scheduled for the 2021-22 fiscal year and will be completed by September 2022.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2020–21 Federal, Provincial and Territorial Cost-shared Programs are planned and delivered by provincial and territorial governments. As such, initiatives to engage applicants and recipients will be determined by the provincial or territorial governments.
Financial information (dollars) — Provincial/Territorial delivered cost-shared programs under the Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Voted)
Type of transfer payment 2018–19
Actual
spending
2019–20
Actual
spending
2020–21
Planned
spending
2020–21
Total
authorities available
for use
2020–21
Actual
spending (authorities used)
Variance
(2020–21 actual minus 2020–21 planned)
Total grants 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total contributions 172,897,589 206,527,289 206,480,000 244,068,868 210,030,334 3,550,334
Total other types of transfer payments 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total program 172,897,589 206,527,289 206,480,000 244,068,868 210,030,334 3,550,334
Explanation of variances As part of the Canadian Agricultural Partnership (the Partnership) five-year Framework, Federal-Provincial-Territorial Cost-shared programming is designed and delivered by the provinces and territories. Overall, actual spending was greater than planned spending since the Provinces and Territories announced more funding for programming to help producers and processors respond to pressures from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Surplus Food Rescue Program (Public Health Events of National Concern Payments Act) (Statutory)

General information - Surplus Food Rescue Program (Public Health Events of National Concern Payments Act) (Statutory)
Start date June 15, 2020
End date September 30, 2020 (with the exception of Food Banks Canada and Baffin Fisheries who received a project extension to December 31, 2021 to distribute additional surplus food)
Type of transfer payment Contribution
Type of appropriation Statutory authority (Public Health Events of National Concern Payments Act)
Fiscal year for terms and conditions Not Available
Link to departmental result(s)

The Canadian agriculture and agri-food sector contributes to growing the economy.

Link to the department's Program Inventory Food Policy Initiatives
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program

The Surplus Food Rescue Program was launched to move surplus food commodities, caused by COVID-19’s significant disruption to the Canadian food system and food serving industry, to food banks and other food security organizations in communities across Canada.

See also this program's related information under Food Policy Initiatives - Local Food Infrastructure Fund (Voted)

Results achieved

As of March 19, 2021, 7.2 million Kg of food totaling $41.8 million was rescued through the Surplus Food Rescue Program and distributed to food serving organizations across the country helping to address food insecurity experienced by Canadians as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Findings of audits completed in 2020–21 Nil
Findings of evaluations completed in 2020–21 Nil
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2020–21

AAFC consulted with the Food Rescue Task Force, which helped in the assessment of the situation with surplus commodities. In addition, the department was in communication with many producers and processors who were expressing great concern about the amount of their product that would be wasted with the closure of the food service industry as a result of COVID-19.

The Program was announced on June 15th, 2020, and the news release included information about the program and a link to the program application on the AAFC website. In addition, there was a social media plan that was used whereby information about the SFRP was posted on Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter.

The Program received applications totaling over $100 million in requested funding from 20 + applicants.
Financial information (dollars) — Surplus Food Rescue Program (Public Health Events of National Concern Payments Act) (Statutory)
Type of transfer payment 2018–19
Actual
spending
2019–20
Actual
spending
2020–21
Planned
spending
2020–21
Total
authorities available
for use
2020–21
Actual
spending (authorities used)
Variance
(2020–21 actual minus 2020–21 planned)
Total grants 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total contributions 0 0 0 48,543,048 48,543,048 48,543,048
Total other types of transfer payments 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total program 0 0 0 48,543,048 48,543,048 48,543,048
Explanation of variances There was no planned spending as it was emergency support provided during the year in response to COVID-19.

Youth Employment and Skills Program (previously known as Agricultural Youth Green Jobs Initiative and Career Focus Program) (Voted)

General information - Youth Employment and Skills Program (previously known as Agricultural Youth Green Jobs Initiative and Career Focus Program) (Voted)
Start date February 6, 1997
End date Ongoing
Type of transfer payment Contribution
Type of appropriation Voted appropriation annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions 2019-20 (Terms and conditions amended)
Link to departmental result(s)

The Canadian agriculture and agri-food sector contributes to growing the economy

Link to the department's Program Inventory Sector Engagement and Development
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program

The Youth Employment and Skills Program is delivered by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, as part of Employment and Social Development Canada’s broader Youth Employment and Skills Strategy. Twelve federal departments participate in the Strategy.

The Youth Employment and Skills Program provides funding to organizations for the creation of agricultural internships for career-related work experiences to youth and youth facing barriers.

COVID-19 Program:

See also this program's related information under the Youth Employment and Skills Program (Public Health Events of National Concern Payments Act) (Statutory)

The Youth Employment and Skills Program is a standing program with the Department. However, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, an additional $9.2 million (Statutory and Voted) in funding for 2020-21 was provided.

Results achieved

The Youth Employment and Skills Program received an additional $9.2 million in funding for 2020-21 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic as a top-up to existing funding. The program helped fund over 1,100 new positions for youth in the agriculture industry and assisted with labour shortages brought on by the pandemic. Of these 1,100 youth, 47% were women, 12% were Indigenous, 6% were visible minorities, 3% were persons with disabilities, 5% lived in an official language minority community and 43% lived rural and/or remotely.

*Note: Claims are still being processed for the 2020-21 year and the performance results above may change once all reports are received.

Findings of audits completed in 2020–21 Nil
Findings of evaluations completed in 2020–21 Nil
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2020–21

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada is one of twelve partner departments under the Youth Employment and Skills Strategy, led by Employment and Social Development Canada. Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada is working closely with the lead and other partner departments on the renewal of the Strategy, including through consultations with stakeholders and participants.

Stakeholders and recipients also engaged through emails, videoconferences, teleconferences and other outreach by the Department.

Financial information (dollars) — Youth Employment and Skills Program (previously known as Agricultural Youth Green Jobs Initiative and Career Focus Program) (Voted)
Type of transfer payment 2018–19
Actual
spending
2019–20
Actual
spending
2020–21
Planned
spending
2020–21
Total
authorities available
for use
2020–21
Actual
spending (authorities used)
Variance
(2020–21 actual minus 2020–21 planned)
Total grants 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total contributions 2,807,840 2,912,709 864,000 864,000 730,765 (133,235)
Total contributions (COVID-19) 0 0 0 7,482,207 6,988,311 6,988,311
Total other types of transfer payments 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total program 2,807,840 2,912,709 864,000 8,346,207 7,719,076 6,855,076
Explanation of variances Actual spending was greater than planned spending as it reflects emergency support provided in response to COVID-19.

Transfer Payment Programs with total actual spending of less than $5 million

AgriCompetitiveness Program (Voted)

General information - AgriCompetitiveness Program (Voted)
Start date April 1, 2018
End date March 31, 2023
Type of transfer payment Contribution
Type of appropriation Voted appropriation annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions 2017-18 (Terms and conditions approved)
Link to departmental result(s) The Canadian agriculture and agri-food sector contributes to growing the economy
Link to the department's Program Inventory Sector Engagement and Development
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program The AgriCompetitiveness Program provides non-repayable funding to help the sector build on existing capacity, enhance safety, adapt to changing commercial and regulatory environments, seize new opportunities, share best practices, and provide mentorship opportunities.
Results achieved The AgriCompetitiveness Program approved 13 projects in 2020-21. Final calculations for the number of participants at events where agricultural awareness, knowledge, skills and best practices are shared will be available by the end of 2021 once project performance data is collected. However, as of September 2021, 89,458 participants have been reported over the duration of the Program (2018-2019, 2019-20, 2020-21).
Findings of audits completed in 2020–21 Nil
Findings of evaluations completed in 2020–21 Nil
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2020–21

Recipients were surveyed to determine the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the activities currently being completed under existing Contribution Agreements. Based on that survey results, flexibilities were introduced such as updated contribution agreements and moving from in-person training events to an online platform.  

Recipients are also engaged through emails, videoconferences, teleconferences and other outreach by the Department.

Financial information (dollars) — AgriCompetitiveness Program (Voted)
Type of transfer payment 2018–19
Actual
spending
2019–20
Actual
spending
2020–21
Planned
spending
2020–21
Total
authorities available
for use
2020–21
Actual
spending (authorities used)
Variance
(2020–21 actual minus 2020–21 planned)
Total grants 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total contributions 2,941,390 3,125,313 3,130,000 3,130,000 2,624,269 (505,731)
Total other types of transfer payments 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total program 2,941,390 3,125,313 3,130,000 3,130,000 2,624,269 (505,731)
Explanation of variances Actual spending was lower than planned spending as a result of decreased activity due to COVID-19 constraints.

Agricultural Greenhouse Gases Program (Voted)

General information - Agricultural Greenhouse Gases Program (Voted)
Start date September 1, 2010
End date Ongoing (subject to Minister's renewal every five years)
Type of transfer payment Contribution
Type of appropriation Voted appropriation annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions 2015-16 (Terms and conditions amended)
Link to departmental result(s) The Canadian agriculture and agri-food sector is effective in transforming ideas into new products, processes or practices.
Link to the department's Program Inventory Agricultural Greenhouse Gases Program
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program The Agricultural Greenhouse Gases Program helps organizations, academic institutions and other levels of government enhance the understanding and accessibility of agricultural technologies and beneficial management practices that can be adopted by farmers to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions in Canada. Research under this program aims to increase the understanding of the chemical, physical and biological processes that lead to greenhouse gas emissions from agricultural systems into surface water, ground water and the atmosphere.
Results achieved In 2020-21, under the Agricultural Greenhouse Gases Program, 67 information products such as factsheets and brochures were developed, bringing the program’s cumulative total to 172. In addition, 18 newly developed technologies and beneficial management practices were demonstrated through field days and workshops, bringing the program’s cumulative total to 25.
Findings of audits completed in 2020–21 Nil
Findings of evaluations completed in 2020–21 Nil
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2020–21 Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada communication efforts included news releases related to the completion of the Agricultural Greenhouse Gases Program and the successor programs being launched in its place. In addition, field days and workshops were carried out under this initiative by recipients of Agricultural Greenhouse Gases Program funding.
Financial information (dollars) — Agricultural Greenhouse Gases Program (Voted)
Type of transfer payment 2018–19
Actual
spending
2019–20
Actual
spending
2020–21
Planned
spending
2020–21
Total
authorities available
for use
2020–21
Actual
spending (authorities used)
Variance
(2020–21 actual minus 2020–21 planned)
Total grants 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total contributions 7,138,259 5,380,009 5,382,000 4,647,794 4,569,831 (812,169)
Total other types of transfer payments 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total program 7,138,259 5,380,009 5,382,000 4,647,794 4,569,831 (812,169)
Explanation of variances

Actual spending was lower than planned spending as there was no further project intake in 2020-21. The majority of the spending under this program was from 2017-18 to 2019-20.

AgriDiversity Program (Voted)

General information - AgriDiversity Program (Voted)
Start date April 1, 2018
End date March 31, 2023
Type of transfer payment Grant and Contribution
Type of appropriation Voted appropriation annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions 2017-18 (Terms and conditions approved)
Link to departmental result(s) The Canadian agriculture and agri-food sector contributes to growing the economy
Link to the department's Program Inventory Sector Engagement and Development
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program Through the AgriDiversity Program, funding is provided to build the entrepreneurial capacity and business skills of underrepresented groups in Canadian agriculture (such as youth, women, Indigenous Peoples, and persons with disabilities) and facilitate the sharing of best practices and knowledge.
Results achieved In 2020-21, the AgriDiversity Program approved two projects. The first project supported the Northern Farm Training Institute to deliver distance education opportunities and internship programs. The second project supported the Indigenous Works Organization to grow research and innovations to increase Indigenous business, economic growth and wellbeing.
Findings of audits completed in 2020–21 Nil
Findings of evaluations completed in 2020–21 Nil
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2020–21

In 2020-21, recipients were surveyed to determine the impacts of the pandemic on the activities currently being completed under existing Contribution Agreements. Based on that survey, flexibilities were introduced such as amending contribution agreements and logistical support.

Applicants and recipients were engaged through correspondence, teleconferences, promotional material and other activities.

Financial information (dollars) — AgriDiversity Program (Voted)
Type of transfer payment 2018–19
Actual
spending
2019–20
Actual
spending
2020–21
Planned
spending
2020–21
Total
authorities available
for use
2020–21
Actual
spending (authorities used)
Variance
(2020–21 actual minus 2020–21 planned)
Total grants 5,000 5,000 (5,000)
Total contributions 429,777 621,070 995,000 995,000 661,841 (333,159)
Total other types of transfer payments 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total program 429,777 621,070 1,000,000 1,000,000 661,841 (338,159)
Explanation of variances Actual spending was lower than planned spending due to slow program uptake, given that there are not many national associations representing underrepresented groups and other national associations have been slow to develop programming that will facilitate the sharing of agriculture experience, best practices, and knowledge to help underrepresented groups manage transformation and adapt to changes in business operations.

AgriRisk Initiatives Program (Voted)

General information - AgriRisk Initiatives Program (Voted)
Start date April 1, 2018
End date March 31, 2023
Type of transfer payment Grant and Contribution
Type of appropriation Voted appropriation annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions 2017–18 (Terms and conditions approved)
Link to departmental result(s) The agriculture and agri-food sector is equipped with assurance systems and supporting tools.
Link to the department's Program Inventory AgriRisk
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program AgriRisk aims to increase the ability of Canadian producers to address risk by supporting research and development as well as the implementation and administration of new risk management tools for use in the agriculture sector. Under the program, governments provide financial assistance to facilitate the development and adoption of risk management tools, including insurance-based products.
Results achieved In 2020-21, 4 risk management tools were developed, bringing the program's cumulative total to 8.
Findings of audits completed in 2020–21 Nil
Findings of evaluations completed in 2020–21 An evaluation is scheduled for 2023-24.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2020–21

Information on the AgriRisk Initiatives Program, as well as the eligibility criteria and application process, is available on Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada's website. The program website, toll-free number, and media relations supports the promotional campaigns.

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada works with provinces and recipients to ensure a coordinated communications approach, and to ensure federal identity on cost-shared programs and appropriate acknowledgement on relevant project communications material.

The Department continues to build on the program websites as a key source of program information and on options for communicating information to program clients in order to support the Department's mandate to strengthen program service and delivery. Communication activities comply with the Official Languages Act requirements. Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada also works with the National Program Advisory Committee to engage its producers.

In addition, throughout the COVID pandemic, Department Officials have maintained regular contact with recipients to help ensure that program service and delivery remained resilient and that recipient needs were addressed.

Financial information (dollars) — AgriRisk Initiatives Program (Voted)
Type of transfer payment 2018–19
Actual
spending
2019–20
Actual
spending
2020–21
Planned
spending
2020–21
Total
authorities available
for use
2020–21
Actual
spending (authorities used)
Variance
(2020–21 actual minus 2020–21 planned)
Total grants 0 100,000 600,000 430,283 195,000 (405,000)
Total contributions 873,069 5,209,500 10,400,000 5,359,717 4,723,666 (5,676,334)
Total other types of transfer payments 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total program 873,069 5,309,500 11,000,000 5,790,000 4,918,666 (6,081,334)
Explanation of variances Actual spending was lower than planned spending due to fewer Administrative Capacity Building and Research and Development projects than anticipated.

Food Waste Reduction Challenge (Voted)

General information - Food Waste Reduction Challenge (Voted)
Start date July 4, 2019
End date March 31, 2024
Type of transfer payment Grant
Type of appropriation Voted appropriation annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions 2019–20 (Terms and conditions approved)
Link to departmental result(s) The Canadian agriculture and agri-food sector contributes to growing the economy.
Link to the department's Program Inventory Food Policy Initiatives
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program The Food Waste Reduction Challenge will accelerate the implementation of innovative and concrete actions to reduce food waste in the food processing, grocery retail and food service sectors. The Challenge will seek to attract new ideas, partners, and resources to invest in solving the complex problem of food waste, prompt new collaborations among non-traditional partners and problem solvers, gather new data, and build the capacity of new innovators and support their entry into the market.
Results achieved Under the Food Waste Reduction Challenge, one challenge was issued with 4 streams: streams A and B were targeted towards business solutions that prevented or diverted food waste, and streams C and D supported innovation that extended the life of food or transformed food that would otherwise be wasted. 343 applications were received for streams A and B of the first challenge issued.
Findings of audits completed in 2020–21 Nil
Findings of evaluations completed in 2020–21 Nil
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2020–21

National consultations were held in 2017 on a national food policy, and published in Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada's “What We Heard” report in 2018. The Government announced the Food Policy For Canada on June 17, 2019, followed by the Food Waste Reduction initiative on July 4, 2019.

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada's other communications efforts include mail outs, news conferences or news releases and posting on social media. The program administration met with over 40 diverse innovators working in food waste reduction to validate program design.

Potential applicants were also being engaged through email, web presence and other outreach methods such as workshops.

Financial information (dollars) — Food Waste Reduction Challenge (Voted)
Type of transfer payment 2018–19
Actual
spending
2019–20
Actual
spending
2020–21
Planned
spending
2020–21
Total
authorities available
for use
2020–21
Actual
spending (authorities used)
Variance
(2020–21 actual minus 2020–21 planned)
Total grants 0 0 1,996,300 1,996,300 1,996,300 0
Total contributions 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total other types of transfer payments 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total program 0 0 1,996,300 1,996,300 1,996,300 0
Explanation of variances Not applicable

Grants to agencies established under the Farm Products Agencies Act (Statutory)

General information - Financial information (dollars) - Grants to agencies established under the Farm Products Agencies Act (Statutory)
Start date Not applicable
End date Ongoing
Type of transfer payment Grant
Type of appropriation Statutory authority (Farm Products Agencies Act)
Fiscal year for terms and conditions Not applicable
Link to departmental result(s) The Canadian agriculture and agri-food sector contributes to growing the economy
Link to the department's Program Inventory Farm Products Council of Canada
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program The objective is to establish Farm Products Agencies Act - Part II national marketing agencies with powers relating to any farm product or farm products where it is satisfied that majorities are in favour of the establishment of an agency. An agency shall conduct its operations on a self-sustaining financial basis. Grants to an agency, not exceeding in the aggregate one hundred thousand dollars, can be made to enable the agency to meet initial operating and establishment expenses.
Results achieved Results continue to be satisfactory for the degree of compliance of each of the four national marketing and the beef promotion and research agency with the Farm Products Agencies Act (FPAA) against the FPAA information requirements (production of an annual report and production of audited financial statements) as well as responsiveness to oversight by the Farm Products Council of Canada.
Findings of audits completed in 2020–21 Nil
Findings of evaluations completed in 2020–21 Nil
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2020–21 Not applicable
Financial information (dollars) – Grants to agencies established under the Farm Products Agencies Act (Statutory)
Type of transfer payment 2018–19
Actual
spending
2019–20
Actual
spending
2020–21
Planned
spending
2020–21
Total
authorities available
for use
2020–21
Actual
spending (authorities used)
Variance
(2020–21 actual minus 2020–21 planned)
Total grants 0 0 100,000 600,000 0 (100,000)
Total contributions 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total other types of transfer payments 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total program 0 0 100,000 600,000 0 (100,000)
Explanation of variances The Farm Products Agencies Act, section 28(1) allows for a grant not exceeding one hundred thousand dollars to an agency to meet initial operating and establishment expenses. As no agencies have been established in the last fiscal year, and none are anticipated to be established in the current fiscal year, there was and is no possibility of a payment against this grant.

Indigenous Agriculture and Food Systems Initiative (Voted)

General information - Indigenous Agriculture and Food Systems Initiative (Voted)
Start date October 1, 2018
End date March 31, 2023
Type of transfer payment Grant and Contribution
Type of appropriation Voted appropriation annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions 2010-11 (Terms and Conditions approved)
Link to departmental result(s) The Canadian agriculture and agri-food sector contributes to growing the economy
Link to the department's Program Inventory Sector Engagement and Development
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program

The Indigenous Agriculture and Food Systems Initiative (IAFSI) is a Strategic Partnership Initiative (SPI) between AAFC and Indigenous Services Canada (ISC). ISC, through SPI, contributes $6 million of the original IAFSI Budget of $8.5 millon over five years and AAFC contributes the remaining $2.5 million from unallocated Canadian Agricultural Partnership funding.

The Initiative aims to increase economic development opportunities for Indigenous Peoples in Canada by building their capacity to participate and succeed in the agriculture sector. The Initiative also supports the development of partnerships between federal and non-federal partners, including Indigenous communities, provincial/territorial governments, and the private sector to ensure a strategic approach to economic development investments for Indigenous Peoples in Canada.

The Initiative provides non-repayable contributions to Indigenous governments and organizations to support economic development activities in agriculture and agri-food sector.

Results achieved

The IAFSI has received 744 inquires and 143 project concept forms since its inception.

47 formal proposals have been received resulting in 18 Contribution Agreements, as a result of networking and collaborating with Indigenous communities and organizations.

Approximately half of the contribution agreements in place focus on the development of business plans, feasibility studies, and opportunity assessments focused on community readiness and business development for Indigenous communities.

Findings of audits completed in 2020–21 Nil
Findings of evaluations completed in 2020–21 Nil
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2020–21 Applicants are being engaged through correspondence, teleconferences, promotional material and other activities.
Financial information (dollars) — Indigenous Agriculture and Food Systems Initiative (Voted)
Type of transfer payment 2018–19
Actual
spending
2019–20
Actual
spending
2020–21
Planned
spending
2020–21
Total
authorities available
for use
2020–21
Actual
spending (authorities used)
Variance
(2020–21 actual minus 2020–21 planned)
Total grants 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total contributions 0 12,018 0 780,751 780,751 780,751
Total other types of transfer payments 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total program 0 12,018 0 780,751 780,751 780,751
Explanation of variances There was no planned spending identified for this initiative as funds were reallocated to support this initiative during the year.

Innovative Solutions Canada Program (Voted)

General information - Innovative Solutions Canada Program (Voted)
Start date April 1, 2018
End date Ongoing
Type of transfer payment Grant
Type of appropriation Voted appropriation annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions 2017-18 (Terms and conditions approved)
Link to departmental result(s) The Canadian agriculture and agri-food sector is effective in transforming ideas into new products, processes or practices.
Link to the department's Program Inventory Foundational Science and Research
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada is a contributor with 20 other federal organizations to Innovative Solutions Canada, which is a $100 million innovation hybrid procurement program designed to support partnerships between government departments and agencies and Canadian innovators in the development of early stage, pre-commercial innovation with the ultimate goal of promoting the growth of Canada's small businesses.
Results achieved

In 2020-21, Innovative Solutions Canada issued four vote 10 challenges to seek innovative new technologies developed by Canadian small and medium-enterprises under the following Challenges:

  • Bioplastics Challenge – two recipients, two new technologies;
  • Precision Agriculture Challenge – two recipients, two new technologies;
  • Canadian Meat Processing Automation Challenge – four recipients, four new technologies; and,
  • Canadian Controlled Environment Agriculture Farming Challenge – up to four recipients, approvals in process.
Findings of audits completed in 2020–21 Nil
Findings of evaluations completed in 2020–21 Not Available
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2020–21 The Innovative Solutions Canada Secretariat, within Innovation Science and Economic Development, is responsible for engagement activities related to program awareness and media outreach. Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada engages with applicants after projects have been approved.
Financial information (dollars) — Innovative Solutions Canada Program (Voted)
Type of transfer payment 2018–19
Actual
spending
2019–20
Actual
spending
2020–21
Planned
spending
2020–21
Total
authorities available
for use
2020–21
Actual
spending (authorities used)
Variance
(2020–21 actual minus 2020–21 planned)
Total grants 0 600,000 1,000,000 2,730,000 2,000,000 1,000,000
Total contributions 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total other types of transfer payments 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total program 0 600,000 1,000,000 2,730,000 2,000,000 1,000,000
Explanation of variances Actual spending was greater than planned spending as projects are now entering into Phase II.

International Collaboration Program (previously known as Canada's participation in international organizations) (Voted)

General information - International Collaboration Program (previously known as Canada's participation in international organizations)  (Voted)
Start date October 21, 2010
End date Ongoing
Type of transfer payment Grant
Type of appropriation Voted appropriation annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions 2013-14 (Terms and conditions amended)
Link to departmental result(s) The Canadian agriculture and agri-food sector contributes to growing the economy
The Canadian agriculture and agri-food sector is effective in transforming ideas into new products, processes or practices
Link to the department's Program Inventory Trade and Market Expansion
Foundational Science and Research
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program The objective of the International Collaboration Program is to provide development opportunities, enhance international cooperation and facilitate exchange of ideas and information among international participants; find solutions to common problems; and influence policy development of other participating countries in agriculture, agri-food, agri-based products and the agri-environment sectors.
Results achieved In 2020-21, the International Collaboration Program approved 6 ongoing payments and 7 targeted projects payments.
Findings of audits completed in 2020–21 Nil
Findings of evaluations completed in 2020–21 Nil
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2020–21 Stakeholders are engaged through emails, videoconferences, teleconferences and other outreach by the Department.
Financial information (dollars) — International Collaboration Program (previously known as Canada's participation in international organizations)  (Voted)
Type of transfer payment 2018–19
Actual
spending
2019–20
Actual
spending
2020–21
Planned
spending
2020–21
Total
authorities available
for use
2020–21
Actual
spending (authorities used)
Variance
(2020–21 actual minus 2020–21 planned)
Total grants 1,609,264 4,037,257 1,643,000 2,643,000 2,564,404 921,404
Total contributions 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total other types of transfer payments 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total program 1,609,264 4,037,257 1,643,000 2,643,000 2,564,404 921,404
Explanation of variances Actual spending was greater than planned spending as uptake under this program has been high. Additional funding was reallocated between programs to further support projects that were in demand and considered key priorities.

Living Laboratories Initiative (Voted)

General information - Living Laboratories Initiative (Voted)
Start date June 7, 2018
End date March 31, 2023
Type of transfer payment Contribution
Type of appropriation Voted appropriation annually through Estimates
Fiscal year for terms and conditions 2018-19 (Terms and conditions approved)
Link to departmental result(s) The Canadian agriculture and agri-food sector is effective in transforming ideas into new products, processes or practices
Link to the department's Program Inventory Foundational Science and Research
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program The objective is to establish a nation wide network of sites where groups both in and outside of government can collaborate to co-develop, assess, and implement innovative solutions to address persistent agri-environmental issues. The goal is to get best management practices and technologies into the hands of farmers faster by working together.
Results achieved In 2020-21, the second year of the Living Laboratories Initiative: Collaborative Program, no new products, processes or technologies were developed and available for transfer to the sector, as these are more likely to be developed in the latter years of the program. However, 22 information products such as factsheets and brochures were developed in 2020-21.
Findings of audits completed in 2020–21 Nil
Findings of evaluations completed in 2020–21 Nil
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2020–21

Pre-consultative process: a series of five awareness-raising workshops, gathering issues, generating ideas and drawing on the expertise and collective intelligence of academic stakeholders, industry, Non-Government Organizations, municipal, provincial, and territorial government partners and Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada staff was conducted in five different cities across Canada from March to June 2018.

Discussions took place with recipients in 2020-21 regarding the challenges they were facing in terms of timelines and research progress as a result of COVID-19. Program staff worked with the recipients to accommodate requests for flexibility where appropriate.

Program clients are also being engaged through email, web presence, videoconferences, teleconferences and other outreach, and project assessment and monitoring.

Financial information (dollars) — Living Laboratories Initiative (Voted)
Type of transfer payment 2018–19
Actual
spending
2019–20
Actual
spending
2020–21
Planned
spending
2020–21
Total
authorities available
for use
2020–21
Actual
spending (authorities used)
Variance
(2020–21 actual minus 2020–21 planned)
Total grants 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total contributions 0 1,200,000 2,500,000 2,227,095 2,211,042 (288,958)
Total other types of transfer payments 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total program 0 1,200,000 2,500,000 2,227,095 2,211,042 (288,958)
Explanation of variances Actual spending was lower than planned spending due to lower than expected uptake.

Loan guarantees under the Canadian Agricultural Loans Act (Statutory)

General information - Loan guarantees under the Canadian Agricultural Loans Act (Statutory)
Start date June 18, 2009
End date Ongoing
Type of transfer payment Contribution
Type of appropriation Statutory authority (Canadian Agricultural Loans Act)
Fiscal year for terms and conditions Not applicable
Link to departmental result(s) The agricultural sector is financially resilient
Link to the department's Program Inventory Loan Guarantee Programs
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program The Canadian Agricultural Loans Act Program guarantees the repayment of loans made to producers and agricultural cooperatives by financial institutions. Producers use these loans to establish, improve, and develop their farms, while agricultural co-operatives use loans to process, distribute, or market agricultural products.
Results achieved

In 2020-21, the Department, in partnership with lending institutions, continued to support the establishment, improvement and development of farms across Canada through the provision of Canadian Agricultural Loans Act loans.

The performance indicators and results:

  • Dollar value of Canadian Agricultural Loans Act loans registered to existing farmers per fiscal year ($millions): $68 million (the minimum target was $79.5 million)
Findings of audits completed in 2020–21 Nil
Findings of evaluations completed in 2020–21 An evaluation is scheduled for 2023-24.
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2020–21

The primary marketing channel for the Canadian Agricultural Loans Act (CALA) Program is through the financial institutions who deliver the program. Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) supports these efforts in a variety of ways to encourage awareness and uptake, including: social media campaigns (for example, Facebook, Twitter); direct mail to producers; print advertising in farm/lender publications; as well as print on demand fact sheets for the agricultural lenders which help maintain common messaging and brand identity.

AAFC undertook a Marketing and Advertising campaign for the CALA Program in late the fall and early winter of 2020, which included social media posts, direct digital mail outs, and articles in Agri-Info and other newsletters.

Each year, AAFC officials also attend two or three selected industry trade shows/annual general meetings to communicate the benefits of the program directly to producers and to learn and gather feedback from producers on the program. CALA staff did not attend any trade shows or annual general meetings in 2020-21 due to Covid-19 restrictions.

Financial information (dollars) — Loan guarantees under the Canadian Agricultural Loans Act
Type of transfer payment 2018–19
Actual
spending
2019–20
Actual
spending
2020–21
Planned
spending
2020–21
Total
authorities available
for use
2020–21
Actual
spending (authorities used)
Variance
(2020–21 actual minus 2020–21 planned)
Total grants 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total contributions (51,408) 786,556 13,111,013 1,153,635 1,153,635 (11,957,378)
Total other types of transfer payments 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total program (51,408) 786,556 13,111,013 1,153,635 1,153,635 (11,957,378)
Explanation of variances

Actual spending was lower than planned spending due to the slow down in realization and collection efforts by the lenders as a result of COVID-19.

Youth Employment and Skills Program  (Public Health Events of National Concern Payments Act) (Statutory)

General information - Youth Employment and Skills Program  (Public Health Events of National Concern Payments Act) (Statutory)
Start date April 1, 2020
End date December 31, 2020
Type of transfer payment Contribution
Type of appropriation Statutory authority (Public Health Events of National Concern Payments Act)
Fiscal year for terms and conditions Not Available
Link to departmental result(s) The Canadian agriculture and agri-food sector contributes to growing the economy
Link to the department's Program Inventory Sector Engagement and Development
Purpose and objectives of transfer payment program

The Youth Employment and Skills Program is delivered by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, as part of Employment and Social Development Canada’s broader Youth Employment and Skills Strategy. Twelve federal departments participate in the Strategy.

The Youth Employment and Skills Program provides funding to organizations for the creation of agricultural internships for career-related work experiences to youth and youth facing barriers.

See also this program's related information under the Youth Employment and Skills Program (Voted)

Results achieved

The Youth Employment and Skills Program received an additional $9.2 million in funding for 2020-21 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic as a top-up to existing funding. The program helped fund over 1,100 new positions for youth in the agriculture industry and assisted with labour shortages brought on by the pandemic. Of these 1,100 youth, 47% were women, 12% were Indigenous, 6% were visible minorities, 3% were persons with disabilities, 5% lived in an official language minority community and 43% lived rural and/or remotely.

*Note: Claims are still being processed for the 2020-21 year and the performance results above may change once all reports are received.

Findings of audits completed in 2020–21 Nil
Findings of evaluations completed in 2020–21 Nil
Engagement of applicants and recipients in 2020–21

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada is one of twelve partner departments under the Youth Employment and Skills Strategy, led by Employment and Social Development Canada. Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada is working closely with the lead and other partner departments on the renewal of the Strategy, including through consultations with stakeholders and participants.

Stakeholders and recipients also engaged through emails, videoconferences, teleconferences and other outreach by the Department.

Financial information (dollars) — Youth Employment and Skills Program  (Public Health Events of National Concern Payments Act) (Statutory)
Type of transfer payment 2018–19
Actual
spending
2019–20
Actual
spending
2020–21
Planned
spending
2020–21
Total
authorities available
for use
2020–21
Actual
spending (authorities used)
Variance
(2020–21 actual minus 2020–21 planned)
Total grants 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total contributions 0 0 0 1,717,793 1,717,793 1,717,793
Total other types of transfer payments 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total program 0 0 0 1,717,793 1,717,793 1,717,793
Explanation of variances

There was no planned spending as it was emergency support provided during the year in response to COVID-19.