What We Heard Report - Indigenous agriculture and agri-food in Canada

About Canadian Agricultural Human Resource Council

The Canadian Agricultural Human Resource Council (CAHRC) is a national, non-profit organization focused on addressing human resource issues facing agricultural businesses across Canada. It offers support to agriculture and agri-food operators throughout Canada to address labour needs, worker requirements, emerging labour issues, position requirements and competitiveness. Collaboration is fundamental to CAHRC operations. It partners with industry associations, educational institutions and government departments to deliver practical staff management tools and training programs.

The facilitator – Beverley O’Neil (Kławum’ Paŧki)

The sessions were facilitated by Beverley O’Neil (Kławum’ Paŧki), a citizen of the Ktunaxa Nation and owner of O'Neil Marketing & Consulting/Numa Communications Ltd. For nearly 30, years she has supported Indigenous economic development through strategic planning, research and facilitation in agriculture and agri-food, tourism and many other sectors including training and Indigenous governance. She is an accomplished facilitator and trainer in Indigenous business and nationhood building.

Executive summary

Indigenous Peoples, since time immemorial, have been connected to the lands, and have managed, harvested, and honoured the land and resources from Mother Earth. In modern times, this continues through many practices within the agriculture and agri-food industries.

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) commissioned the Canadian Agricultural Human Resource Council (CAHRC) to host 5 virtual regional sessions with Indigenous partners across Canada, including Indigenous Nations, organizations, business owners, and individual Indigenous farmers and operators. The sessions had 48 participants from a wide range of agriculture and agri-food backgrounds, along with 25 federal, provincial and territorial Subject Matter Experts (SMEs), observers and support staff.

The goal of these sessions was to learn about Indigenous connections to food and agriculture and to gather perspectives on key topics including, challenges and opportunities for Indigenous agriculture initiatives, government support and program experiences, and training and capacity building opportunities. Participants were also asked to comment on the creation of a national advisory table for AAFC, and a national forum for Indigenous agriculture and agri-food.

Comments and ideas gathered during these sessions will be used by AAFC and partners to inform a broader understanding of the experiences and opportunities for Indigenous agriculture and agri-food practices in Canada, as well as help to inform future policy and programs.

AAFC provides many programs and supports for agriculture and agri-food production throughout Canada, many of which are administered through cost-shared programs with provincial and territorial governments and their agencies.

Indigenous communities and peoples continue to experience challenges in entering and thriving in the sector. Participants in these sessions identified challenges through an online poll, general comments and breakout discussions.

The responses to the online poll underscored the top concerns of all Indigenous respondents, including:

• access to capital and financial resources
• access to information on available funding and sector opportunities
• more capacity building and skill development opportunities
• access to labour, employment and training opportunities

Opportunities and challenges in Indigenous agriculture and agri-food

Exhibit 1 Long description

A circular representation of the 6 thematic areas of challenges faced by Indigenous partners:

• Awareness and interest
• Capacity
• Financing
• Land, resources and infrastructure
• Network and marketing
• Policies and programs

Community needs:

• Health
• Traditions
• Rights and title
• Opportunities
• Economic development
• Food security

Participants also highlighted 6 main challenges, including:

• awareness of opportunities in the sector
• lack of capacity and development supports
• resource needs in financing
• lands and infrastructure
• limited networking and marketing opportunities
• a lack of targeted policies and programs

These challenges also demonstrate that there are opportunities in emerging markets and technology, in the revival of traditional food and processes guided by Indigenous principles and values, and in community needs such as health matters, food security and economic development.

Summary and recommendations

Indigenous communities in all areas of Canada are increasingly interested in agriculture and agri-food industries. The following summarizes key recommendations for AAFC and its partners to support the Indigenous agriculture industry and its affiliated sectors.

Awareness and information

• Awareness campaign – develop an awareness campaign for Indigenous Peoples about the agriculture and agri-food sector and its benefits
• Toolkits – create toolkits containing program information, resources, supports and other contacts

Agricultural programs review

• All programs review – conduct a review of all funding and support programs that has an Indigenous ‘lens’ with a commitment by governments to ‘act’ on topics like applicant eligibility and application process, delivery agents, deadlines, stacking and filing processes
• Indigenous engagement – ensure that there is Indigenous engagement in the administration and management of agricultural funding programs and support

Supports and programs

• Emergency funds – provide emergency funds for operators who are in distress from events such as economic downturns and environmental damage
• Aftercare services – offer aftercare/wrap-around supports, such as mentoring and other services, to identify and support proposals and applications
• Indigenous delivery – establish Indigenous delivery agents and ambassadors to be the point of contact for Indigenous inquiries on programs and services

Training

• Train-the-trainer program – support train-the-trainer sessions to deliver workshops regionally on topics of general interest, like gardening, greenhouse production, soil health, traditional processes, etc.
• Indigenous experts and agencies – prioritize Indigenous experts and agencies in delivering training
• Traditional knowledge – grant funds for documenting traditional knowledge and teaching agriculture topics
• Training funds – ensure funds for short-term training, such as workshops and courses, cover full delivery costs for trainer fees, travel and accommodations, equipment, and for documenting traditional knowledge
• Ambassadors and mentors program – set up an Ambassadors and Mentors Program to support Indigenous Peoples on agricultural practices and techniques, especially culturally-relevant ones

Product marketing

• Sales channels – support the setup of sales channels such as farmer markets
• Marketing campaign – develop a marketing campaign, brand and system for Indigenous products
• Marketing skills – facilitate the teaching of marketing and packaging skills, including online sales and partnerships

National Indigenous advisory table and forum

• Indigenous advisory table – establish National Indigenous Advisory Tables with revolving Indigenous participants who are experts on the discussion topic. Indigenous representatives should reflect all Indigenous Peoples – First Nations, Métis, Inuit – and have women, Elders, and youth, plus be persons who are active and experienced in the topics (at varying levels – from new start-up to several years)
• Indigenous forum – host an online and in-person National Indigenous Forum for networking and sharing of information and successes, as well as building knowledge and skills

Other recommendations

• Research and information – have a central repository of research and agricultural information available to Indigenous Peoples involved in the sector that has Indigenous content
• National organization for Indigenous agriculture – support the development of a national organization on Indigenous agriculture
• Infrastructure – advocate for access to lands, infrastructure and resources (that is, water systems, roads, transportation, market channels) that are needed for Indigenous community agriculture
• Special projects – support unique projects such as seed collection for Indigenous cultural and traditional agricultural activities

Introduction

Indigenous Peoples, since time immemorial, have been connected to the lands, and have managed, harvested, and honoured land and the resources from Mother Earth. The Iroquois Nation recognized that nature works together. This is exhibited through the Three Sisters^{Endnote 1} planting method which demonstrates that when corn, beans, and squash are planted together, they support each other and thrive.

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) commissioned the Canadian Agricultural Human Resource Council (CAHRC) to host 5 virtual outreach discussions with the Indigenous^{Endnote 2} community, including Indigenous Nations, organizations, business owners, and individual Indigenous farmers and operators.

This report summarizes the discussions of 5 regional sessions of Indigenous agricultural operators and leaders. The term ‘agriculture’ is meant to be inclusive of these areas and their subsectors, including processing and manufacturing of any food or non-timber forest products, harvesting and Indigenous traditional food processes, ranching, and all other related farming practices.

About the sessions

The goal of these sessions was to learn about Indigenous connections to food and agriculture and to gather perspectives on key topics including, challenges and opportunities for Indigenous agriculture initiatives, government support and program experiences, and training and capacity building opportunities. Participants were also asked to comment on the creation of a national advisory table for AAFC, and a national forum for Indigenous agriculture and agri-food. Comments and ideas gathered during these sessions will inform a broader understanding of the experiences and opportunities for Indigenous agriculture and agri-food practices in Canada, as well as to help inform future policy and program development.

These sessions were organized by geographic region with participants invited based on geography, agricultural and agri-food activity, stage of operation, and involvement in the sector. Indigenous participants represented a wide cross-section of the industry. There was representation from First Nations Bands, tribal organizations, and corporations, as well as individual operators who are Indigenous, Métis and Inuit persons, and people who have modern and traditional knowledge. They operated greenhouses, or were launching new businesses, were involved in local or large-scale production, and/or were reviving traditional practices.

There were 48 Indigenous participants from a wide range of agriculture and agri-food backgrounds, including aquaculture, processing, and packaging (see Exhibit 1: Regional sessions, dates and participant numbers), with 25 federal and provincial SMEs and others attending as observers and support staff. Each session followed the same format, with polling questions and breakout discussion sessions conveyed to all participants (see Appendix A for session format and questions).

Exhibit 1: Regional sessions, dates and participant numbers

Indigenous agriculture and agri-food involvement

The agricultural industry consists of operators (businesses) and persons (population) working in the industry. Indigenous involvement in the Canadian agriculture and agri-food sector is growing.

From 1971 to 2016, the mainstream farm population declined by 62.7% with the average size of the farm household shrinking^{Endnote 3}. During this same period, Indigenous participation grew. Indigenous agricultural operators represented 5,160 (1.9%) of 270,720 agricultural operators in Canada, showing a 53.7% increase in Indigenous operators from 1996 to 2016^{Endnote 4}. Over 76% (3,940) of the Indigenous operators are Métis people and mainly situated in Alberta and Saskatchewan, with the First Nation operators mostly located in British Columbia (285), followed by Ontario (215) and Alberta (150) (see Exhibit 2: Location of Indigenous agriculture operators).

In 2016, 15,765 (2.7%) of the 592,975 people in agriculture self-identified as Aboriginal. In comparison, Aboriginal people accounted for 4.9% of Canada’s total population. Métis (10,960) represented the largest group of Aboriginal people living in agricultural households, accounting for 69.5% of the total. In addition, 4,135 First Nations people and 115 Inuit were part of the agricultural population^{Endnote 4}.

Indigenous Peoples have become farmers of crops and animal livestock (primarily cattle) and are expanding their industry involvement. Indigenous agriculture and agri-food include producers in aquaculture, traditional food and harvesting of non-timber forest products, and food processing and packaging. There is an observable increase of Indigenous involvement in apiary, greenhouse production, processing, and a resurgence in traditional food through harvesting and the domestication of traditional food.

Exhibit 2: Location of Indigenous agriculture operators

Map produced by Remote Sensing and Geospatial Analysis, Agriculture Division, Statistics Canada, 2019.
Source: Statistics Canada, Agriculture – Population Linkage Data, 2016

Exhibit 2 long description

Demonstrates the distribution of Métis and First Nations Farm Operators in Canada, where one blue dot demonstrates the presence of 5 Métis operators in a location and one red dot demonstrates the presence of five First Nations operators in a location on the map of Canada. The largest concentration of dots are location across the prairie provinces – Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Alberta. There are also other clusters of dots concentrated in southern Ontario and southern Quebec, and clusters scattered throughout the maritime regions. Lastly, there is a linear cluster of dots throughout the province of British Columbia.

Federal programs and supports

AAFC provides several programs and supports for agriculture and agri-food production throughout Canada. Many of these programs are administered through cost-shared programs with provincial and territorial governments and their agencies.

Through these sessions, AAFC affirmed its commitment to ‘enhancing food security and supporting Indigenous participation in the agriculture and agri-food sector’ and continuing dialogue with Indigenous partners on sector issues. It also recently established an Indigenous Policy Division to coordinate its efforts internally and identify ways to partner and advance reconciliation.

AAFC’s main supports for Indigenous agriculture include programming that falls under CAP, A Food Policy for Canada and the Indigenous Agriculture and Food Systems Initiative, which is jointly funded by AAFC and Indigenous Services Canada.

Through A Food Policy for Canada, CAP and other programs, AAFC is working to increase support for Indigenous agriculture and agri-food activities. Some of the targeted federal programming and services offered by AAFC include:

• Indigenous Pathfinder Service – provides information to Indigenous clients based on their interests and available supports (that is information, programs, tools to start and/or expand operations)
• AgriDiversity Program – helps underrepresented groups – including youth, women, Indigenous Peoples, and persons with disabilities – participate in the sector by helping address key issues and barriers often faced for sector participation through skill building in leadership and entrepreneurial capacity
• Youth Employment and Skills Program – flexible cost-shared program to support greater participation of Indigenous youth (and other youth facing barriers) in the program
• Indigenous Agriculture Food Systems Initiative – for Indigenous communities and entrepreneurs who are ready to launch agri-food systems projects, and others wanting to build their capacity to participate in the sector
• Local Food Infrastructure Fund – for community-based, not-for-profit organizations with a mission to reduce food insecurity by establishing and strengthening their local food system

In addition to federally-led initiatives, AAFC provides $2 million in funding for cost-shared provincial and territorial agriculture programming. A number of provinces and territories have designed programs and initiatives that support Indigenous agriculture initiatives.

Indigenous perspectives – what we heard

The regional sessions generated ideas and concerns common throughout Canada. Some comments were exclusive to one region but are relevant to other areas of the country.

Challenges, opportunities and traditions

Challenges

Indigenous participants were asked to identify top challenges facing Indigenous participation in the agriculture and agri-food sector through a virtual polling function, as part of a broader plenary discussion. First, a polling question underscored the top concerns of the Indigenous respondents. Financial and funding concerns, capacity and skill development, and working relationships between Indigenous Peoples and FPT (federal, provincial, territorial) governments topped the concerns (see Exhibit 3). (Data tables provided in Appendix B)

Exhibit 3: Top challenges for Indigenous participation in agriculture and agri-food

Note: Respondents could select more than one response.

Exhibit 3 Long description

Top challenges (n=40)

Option/region	Atlantic	BC	North	ON, QC	Prairies
Access to capital and financial resources.	5	7	7	11	3
Access to information on available funding and sector opportunities.	2	6	5	9	2
More capacity building and skill development opportunities.	4	5	4	9	1
Access to labour, employment and training opportunities.	3	4	4	7	1
Better working relationships between Indigenous Peoples and FPT governments.	2	4	4	7	2
Incorporate Indigenous knowledge, values and principles throughout sector activities.	2	5	2	8	1
Increased access to land and land purchasing opportunities.	3	2	3	9	1
More effective communication of programs and services.	4	4	4	5	0
More targeted and/or accessible programs.	2	4	5	5	0

Discussions on challenges with Indigenous partners presented 6 thematic areas (see Exhibit 4):

• Awareness and interest – of opportunities in the sector
• Capacity – lack of capacity and development supports
• Financing – resource needs in financing
• Land, resources and infrastructure – to participate and expand
• Network and marketing – limited networking and marketing opportunities
• Policies and programs – a lack of targeted policies and programs

Exhibit 4: Opportunities and challenges for Indigenous agriculture and agri-food

Exhibit 4 Long description

A circular representation of the 6 thematic areas of challenges faced by Indigenous partners:

• Awareness and interest
• Capacity
• Financing
• Land, resources and infrastructure
• Network and marketing
• Policies and programs

Community needs:

• Health
• Traditions
• Rights and title
• Opportunities
• Economic development
• Food security

These challenges highlight that there are opportunities in emerging markets and technology, as well as the revival of traditional food and processes which are guided by Indigenous principles and values, and are driven by community needs including food security and economic development.

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, many Indigenous communities already experienced food insecurity. This was driven by economic conditions, poverty and community location which isolated their community due to lack of reliable or year-round transportation, and inclement weather which prevented transportation and shipments of food and other supplies. Since the pandemic, more Indigenous Nations and political organizations have increased focus on improving food security and food sovereignty for Indigenous Peoples.

Awareness and interest

Greater awareness of opportunities in the sector with targeted campaigns to youth and young adults is required. The sector must be viewed by Indigenous communities as viable and a part of a thriving economy that contributes to food security and culture building to generate interest and engage target groups. Indigenous communities’ leadership, such as Band Councils, and community members need to understand the value and opportunities that agriculture and agri-food offer. This may be achieved through coordinated community planning sessions for agriculture along with information on available programs, supports and training.

Information should also be customized to the geographic region. This is especially important in the North where conditions, opportunities, supports, and costs to start and maintain operations differ significantly from other regions in Canada.

Capacity

The ability of Indigenous Peoples to expand and sustain their involvement in agriculture and agri-food requires initiatives that:

• help enhance human resources
• build and improve skills and knowledge
• promote the adoption of technology
• enhance accessibility of financing options
• attract and retain labour

There must be better support for small businesses, such as expert advisors that bring Indigenous perspectives^{Endnote 5} to operations and lands management, and who are knowledgeable of key areas such as the natural environment, programs, supports, markets and policies.

Supports are required to assist operators, especially small and micro businesses, with business and operations planning, labour force management, and preparing applications and proposals to funding programs. Also, providing training and information will help build skills to cultivate interest and improve operations. Participants signalled interest in ‘how-to’ materials and training on community gardening, ways to expand and access new markets, and marketing and selling online.

Financing

Getting into agriculture and agri-food (especially activities like supply management) can have high startup costs, and during operations, there are replacement and expansion costs as well as unexpected expenses that can be difficult for Indigenous operators to meet. Several types of financial support in the form of loans and grants are needed at various stages from startup to operations, and for different size operations. Specific needs are operating funds (cash flow/management) to be available for short and long-term durations, emergency funds to meet operating and staff costs for unexpected situations like natural disasters (fire, flooding), and economic downturns, and micro-funds^{Endnote 6} for small operators and entrepreneurs in amounts that are considered too little to be processed by a lending agent. Micro-fund programs typically offer aftercare support that aids all phases of operations like concept to startup, operations and expansion.

Land, resources and infrastructure

Indigenous Nations face additional barriers to starting and running feasible agricultural businesses. In many regions of Canada, land is scarce, and Indigenous communities lack other infrastructure and resources like water for greenhouses, ranching and irrigation, energy (electricity/diesel), and transportation routes. Communities with little land resources must also prioritize demands for housing against agricultural activity. In addition, Northern communities are increasingly tackling food security with greenhouse food production but the high cost of energy to heat these structures prohibit feasible production.

Network and marketing

Indigenous producers recognize that there is strength in sharing information and building partnerships with one another. Indigenous operators seek opportunities to work together to share information and find markets, which may result in more consistent pricing rather than undercutting each other through competition. In addition, they feel a strong network will produce greater and timely access to market opportunities, which works to connect buyers with sellers and may create a niche for Indigenous branded products.

Policies and programs

Many federal agriculture and agri-food funding programs are administered through partnerships with provincial and territorial governments. Indigenous involvement (including regional Indigenous agricultural organizations) in the creation and management of programs can help to ensure programs and funds are accessible. Indigenous communities and organizations should be involved in the development and delivery of all federal and regional agricultural programs and services, not just those designated for Indigenous applicants.

In addition to the 6 categories described earlier, additional concerns related to federal programs and supports were offered.

• Inability to complete program applications – current process is not sufficient and must be developed by Indigenous Peoples or provide access to others who can assist with the preparation of funding applications and proposals
• Ineligibility – of Indigenous non-profit society organizations and consortia for some program funding and support
• Low inter-government and agency communication – between federal/provincial/territorial governments and industry sector organizations affects the provision of services and funding
• Absence of wrap-around supports – in aftercare services that assist with combating problems in agricultural production and business operations
• Gaps in funding reimbursement model – do not recognize financial and cash flow needs of applicants, and prevents some Indigenous organizations, such as societies, who have shortages of unrestricted finances
• Insufficient capital – additional funds are needed by applicants to launch or expand their business
• Barriers to supply management systems – such as quota systems, constrain access of Indigenous communities and people to sectors of agriculture, and when quotas become available the purchase cost may be excessive

Opportunities and traditions

As one participant said, “All challenges become opportunities.” The challenges described above conversely open prospects to Indigenous communities and peoples in the agriculture and agri-food sector.

One potential opportunity emerges from the intersection of health, Indigenous knowledge and culture. First Nations responding to rising diabetes in their community have launched community greenhouses (traditional and aquaponics) and gardens to curb the trend. Add that many traditional food and traditional food production practices have health benefits and there is potential to create premium Indigenous niche products and markets such as traditional wild food, like plants and animals, which could be domesticated by Indigenous producers.

Other emerging trends that present options for Indigenous Peoples in the sector:

• Buying local – interest in supporting local farmers and suppliers and buying Canadian – local community farmer markets create opportunities for producers to have direct access to buyers, lower packaging and sales costs, and to gather comments directly from consumers which is good for product testing
• Healthy eating – increased demand for healthy food at affordable costs
• Focus on youth – interest to connect youth in farming and agriculture, and land-based employment opportunities
• Food security – improved support and focus on local traditional food production and harvesting as pillars of food security
• Indigenous cultural food – desire to restore and revive traditional food, such as the promotion and domestication of traditional food like wild asparagus, soap berries, blueberries, strawberries and fiddleheads

Government support and program experience

The regional sessions also gathered feedback, experiences, and ideas for improvements to government supports and programs. As AAFC partners with provinces/territories and other agencies on the delivery of agriculture-related programs directed to the agricultural community at large, as well as some initiatives exclusive to Indigenous applicants, participants provided comments on their experience with these programs and services, and shared ideas for improving programs and communication of such programs (see Appendix A for discussion questions).

Participants had varying levels of program experience from successful to unsuccessful knowledge of programs and their delivery agents (federal/provincial/territorial/regional), and experience with programs. Regardless of program experience, common themes emerged that lead to improvement of AAFC’s current and future program delivery and development.

Federal and regional supply management programs and those developed by non-Indigenous producers, such as quotas^{Endnote 7} and co-ops, have omitted or limited Indigenous participation. Consequently, they have created systems that shut out or make it difficult for Indigenous communities and operators to enter and/or succeed in controlled agricultural sectors. Quota systems impede Indigenous participation and success in these sectors, first by blocking access to a sector where quotas are fully distributed (for example, dairy and poultry production), then should a quota become available, the acquisition cost can be high.

The following recommendations were provided by participants to enhance government programming and related support for Indigenous Peoples in the sector.

Agricultural programs review

Funding and support programs do not meet the needs of Indigenous applicants. There are AAFC programs that are available to all in the agricultural industry, which includes people, and programs that are exclusive to the Indigenous community. All these programs require an audit/review for:

• Program flexibility – programs for operating costs and the duration of funding are inflexible and do not support agricultural operations that require long-term funding options for projects that do not achieve feasibility for 5 or more years (that is, crops that have long growing periods to harvest). Continuous application intake is essential in this industry where crops and harvesting, and other food production, are seasonal and do not align with government fiscal cycles.
• Program terminology – wording is not user-friendly and may not have phrasing that conveys to an Indigenous person that the programs and services are accepting/understanding of Indigenous agriculture practices.
• Eligibility – access thresholds, funding stacking, and ineligibility of Indigenous non-profit organizations, societies, and partnerships can prevent greater Indigenous participation in the sector. Also, there are programs and services that lack wording which specifically lists eligibility for all peoples of Indigenous ancestry (that is, First Nation, Métis, Inuit, registered and non-registered Indians).
• Information and communication – inconsistent information and lack of experience in communicating with Indigenous Peoples negatively impacts efficient and effective application.
• Application process – delayed application approvals, which can be exasperated by a complicated and unclear application process, miscommunication, as well as untimely program launches can harm seasonal ventures and deter new applicants.
  • Simplify applications – federal/provincial/territorial applications and processes should be amended as they are lengthy and complicated to complete as is seems unclear and wording is not straightforward.
  • Application accessibility – information is not always available in printed and online formats, with many applications requiring online completion and submission (that is, require internet access). There are Indigenous communities and people who do not have access or reliable access to the internet or computers.
  • Deadlines – programs intakes and fixed deadlines do not meet the seasonality of the sector and its wide array of products. Flexible deadlines with continuous intake could address time-oriented limitations such as pending leadership decisions and limited capacity to fulfill application criteria and other reporting requirements.
• Program delivery – working with an Indigenous delivery agent is more comfortable and easier for Indigenous applicants. For example, experiences with AAFC’s Indigenous Pathfinder service were reported as being positive. As possible, Indigenous organizations should deliver programs to Indigenous Peoples, and all service agents/program administrators need to understand the unique challenges faced by Indigenous Peoples.
• Communications and program awareness – is typically provided in many Indigenous communities by the Economic Development or Business Officer who disseminates information, provides advisory services, and assists individuals with program applications and sourcing expertise. Not all Indigenous Nations have these staff positions. Add that many Indigenous Peoples, especially Métis and non-status Indigenous Peoples, are not affiliated with Bands or organizations and/or are not connected with Indigenous information networks and agencies, and receive information through general public channels.

Suggestions to improve awareness and communications:

• Broad distribution – promote programs and services through several communication vehicles, not just through Bands and Indigenous organizations. Be certain to use public and social media channels as well to reach a wider audience.
• One source – make it easy for people to get information on Indigenous programs and supports with other federal departments by creating a one-stop shop portal.
• Ambassadors – identify Indigenous Ambassadors in regions who are knowledgeable of programs, supports and successes, and are experienced in and familiar to Indigenous Peoples and communities.

Other suggestions:

• Micro-enterprise – create a micro-enterprise funding program that is multi-year to support self-reliance (own source revenue generation).
• Environment – support initiatives that promote waste reduction and minimize environmental and climate change effects.
• Land and capital – develop initiatives that support access to land and capital.
• Lending rates – existing Indigenous business loan program lending rates are notably higher than commercial lenders. There needs to be more competitive borrowing rates that reflect commercial rates.

Training and capacity building opportunities

Training and capacity building enables people, communities, and organizations to strengthen their capabilities to develop, implement and maintain effective agriculture and agri-food initiatives. Participants offered ideas that focus on Indigenous communities and the skills needed in agriculture planning and operations, with an emphasis on niches linked to Indigenous culture (see Appendix A for discussion questions).

Training

Training is essential to increasing Indigenous participation and success in the sector. There is a lack of training and knowledge for Indigenous Peoples that focuses on their interests and opportunities, and is not available in varying formats such as in-community workshops, non-degree programs, and shorter training durations. Also, high program cost, too long workshop or course duration, sessions offered at the wrong time of year or season, and delivered out of the community, deter participation in training. Support for non-degree programs and inconsistency in post-secondary education courses may not be available. This training should be delivered by Indigenous trainers.

Participants indicated that training programs would ideally:

• be phased-in to get people into the industry
• have youth components and initiatives that offer wage subsidies, mentoring and internships
• demonstrate career paths and training opportunities
• partner with Band funding and Indigenous Skills and Employment Training programs

Any training offered must include traditional knowledge in the curriculum along with funds to pay knowledge keepers as expert trainers. Knowledge keepers include Elders and persons recognized by their Indigenous community as cultural experts who can teach traditional practices such as animal processing.

Types of training suggested were:

• trades training – with incentives for apprenticeship program
• greenhouse operations – especially for northern communities
• specialized training to develop skills such as saltwater sampling
• permaculture training
• caribou food stocks
• soil assessment and composting
• mixed vegetable farming
• agriculture/agri-food planning and agri-diversity, and how to enter the industry
• aquaculture – fisheries opportunities
• lands management and conservation
• fast/freeze drying food, processing and packaging
• technical demonstrations such as best management practices, tips and techniques
• succession planning
• traditional processes – such as animal processing
• train-the-trainer sessions – to develop local Indigenous trainers who are accessible to local communities, and have knowledge of the area and Indigenous culture and values who can teach planting, growing, gardening, and greenhouses

Training funds should also cover cost for Indigenous experts (especially those with traditional knowledge), opportunities for recording the session for communities (especially any traditional knowledge) and funds to house trainers and cover the costs of equipment.

Capacity building opportunities

Improvements to local knowledge include capacity building with training, such as the train-the-trainer program mentioned above, to improve the ability of Indigenous communities, organizations, and individuals to access programs and supports, and act on opportunities.

Capacity building ideas were:

• Toolkits – develop toolkits that contain program information, resources, supports and other contacts for how to start-up, operating tips, and examples of success stories
• Locally available experts – setup in Indigenous communities, who advise on planning and agricultural strategies, and can provide aftercare services to operators. These experts should also be able to guide and assist with applications, business planning and marketing, and be able to match expertise with operator needs
• Mentorship – enable Indigenous operators to provide mentoring to new entrants or in specialized activities
• Marketing – develop marketing cooperatives to brand and sell Indigenous products
• Sharing channels – create channels such as networking and learning events both online and in-person, including forums, workshops, and speaker series events where operators can connect, provide tips, and explore ideas
• Expert support tours – create travel circles where experts visit operators to provide strategic advice on ways their ideas or operations can be improved

Furthering Indigenous voices and connections

As part of building partnerships and engagement, participants provided their perspectives on a proposed Indigenous advisory table to AAFC and a forum. Both concepts were fully supported (see Appendix B for polling results) with additional comments received on both topics.

Indigenous advisory table

During the sessions, participants suggested that the role of an advisory body should:

• be comprised of Indigenous voices
• include Indigenous partners’ perspectives and inform all relevant departmental priorities and programs
• help AAFC and others work with Indigenous partners to improve understanding and support for Indigenous priorities and needs based on mutual respect, cooperation, and partnership
• be a vehicle that can gather and help transfer information and knowledge on shared priorities
• provide a forum for collaboration and shared learning

Comments related to establishing an advisory table were:

• Terms of reference – have an established terms of reference that outlines its purpose, vision and goals, along with set benchmarks set which reflect results of value to Indigenous Peoples
• Representative of Indigenous agricultural experience –
  • be comprised of Indigenous Peoples, meaning those who are First Nations, Métis and Inuit
  • include Elders, people with traditional knowledge, women, and youth
  • be industry-driven with perspectives from farmers and industry sectors, particularly people who have experience in agriculture and agri-food, and aquaculture fields, rather than provincial, Band or treaty-based
  • have representatives (such as Indigenous applicants) with experience in programs and working with departments and agencies
  • be rotational tables for different sectors and include topics where Indigenous representatives and experts of that sphere provide advice
• Purpose-oriented – the purpose and topics the group would tackle are:
  • front-end advice on grants, programs, and funding policies
  • value chain roundtable – theme-based
• Focused with service in mind – the group needs to be a practical working group that is focused on building the Indigenous agriculture industry, offering opportunities for networking and information sharing, and helping to identify what to grow, harvest, produce, and ranch
• Frequency – involve multiple federal round table discussions with different themes and Indigenous representatives

National forum

Indigenous partners indicated that key criteria for a national forum would be that it is accessible to all Indigenous Peoples interested in agriculture and agri-food operations, through both in-person and online attendance options. Attendance to the forum would be open to Indigenous communities, operators, Elders and Knowledge Keepers, educators, programs/support agencies and industry associations.

The events could offer:

• Networking – where Indigenous farmers and other participants gather to share experiences and ideas, have open discussions
• Specified topics – including examples of Indigenous success stories and opportunities, including for potential sector engagement in land management, harvesting, fishing, hunting, traditional farming, and apiary

Other comments and ideas

Other ways to continue the dialogue and improve Indigenous participation in this field include:

• Research and information resources –
  • set up a central repository of research for Indigenous Peoples involved in the sector and ensure that there are Indigenous elements in all research
  • create a national database of Indigenous agricultural businesses
  • develop other information tools such as books on traditional plants and colouring books for kids
• National organization on Indigenous agriculture – support the development of a national body that could serve as the central contact for Indigenous interests in the field
• Infrastructure – Indigenous communities need sustained access to power and water to participate in agricultural activities
• Special projects – potential to support specialized initiatives for specialized fields or activities such as:
  • seed collection stewarding
  • closed system farming
  • Indigenous cultural and traditional agricultural activities

Recommendations and summary

There is increasing interest amongst Indigenous Peoples across Canada to participate in the agriculture and agri-food sector. Since time immemorial, Indigenous Peoples have worked the land and harvested its resources. Traditional and cultural ways still exist with more people expressing interest in reviving and teaching youth these ways. There are many established and successful examples of Indigenous agricultural operations across the country which involve Indigenous producers, farmers, processors and packagers of small to large ventures.

Participants in the regional sessions identified that Indigenous participation in agriculture is driven by a need to reconnect with the land, restore culture and traditions and pursue economic development. More recently, food security in Indigenous communities has become more prominent due to the COVID-19 global pandemic as well as unpredictable/extreme weather patterns. For example, more Indigenous Nations have included food production in their community and economic development plans to improve community member health, and to achieve food security.

There are challenges in addressing these goals and to growing a strong, stable Indigenous agriculture sector. Achieving this requires supportive AAFC programs, including support to enter supply management channels (that is, quotas), along with a commitment to act upon the recommendations offered by Indigenous partners through discussions similar to the regional sessions, and through advisory tables, events, and forums.

The following summarizes key recommendations to improve the Indigenous agriculture and agri-food industry and its affiliated sectors:

Awareness and information

• Awareness campaign – develop an Awareness Campaign that targets Indigenous communities and peoples, where information is disseminated through Indigenous communities, agencies and social media to stimulate interest in entering the industry
• Toolkits – create toolkits containing program information, resources, supports and other contacts

Agricultural programs review

• All programs review – conduct a review of all funding and support programs to audit their accessibility and promotion to Indigenous communities. This review should include all AAFC programs, not just programs targeting or exclusive to Indigenous applicants. Program evaluations should include Indigenous Peoples to apply an ‘Indigenous lens’ to set relevant and accurate parameters and targets. Some of the elements to be adjusted are eligibility, application process and criteria, the information gathered, ongoing application intakes versus fixed deadlines, stacking restrictions, delivery agents, having information available both in print and online, as well as various ways to submit applications (that is, not dependent on internet access)
• Indigenous engagement – ensure that there is Indigenous engagement in the administration and management of agricultural funding programs and support

Supports and programs

• Emergency funds – provide emergency funds for operators who are in distress from events such as economic downturns and environmental damage
• Aftercare services – offer wrap-around supports such as mentoring, and services to identify and support proposals and applications
• Indigenous delivery – establish Indigenous delivery agents and ambassadors to be the point of contact for Indigenous inquiries on programs and services

Training

• Train-the-trainer programs – create and support train-the-trainer programs or initiatives to deliver workshops on topics of general interest, for example, gardening, greenhouse production, soil health, traditional processes, food preservation and storage, and general animal care
• Indigenous experts and agencies – prioritize Indigenous experts and agencies in delivering training
• Traditional knowledge – grant funds for documenting traditional knowledge for teaching agriculture topics both in-person and online
• Training funds – ensure funds for short-term training, like workshops and courses, cover the full delivery cost which includes trainer fees, travel and accommodations, equipment, as well as for documenting traditional knowledge
• Ambassadors and mentors program – identify Indigenous Peoples who can share knowledge, and in particular cultural knowledge, on tasks such as harvesting and drying food to support Indigenous Peoples and communities to enter and succeed in the industry

Product marketing

• Sales channels – support the setup of community farmer markets and entrance into other local markets
• Marketing campaign – develop a marketing campaign, brand and system for Indigenous products
• Marketing skills – facilitate the teaching of marketing and packaging skills, including online sales and partnerships

Indigenous advisory table and forum

• Indigenous advisory table – establish advisory tables whose Indigenous participants are experts that may change based on the topics discussed. Indigenous representatives should reflect all Indigenous Peoples – including First Nations, Métis, Inuit – and have women, Elders, and youth, plus be persons who are active and experienced in the topics (at varying levels – from new startup to several years)
• Indigenous forum – should be created as a forum for networking and sharing of information and successes, as well as to build knowledge and skills. The forum should have in-person and online options to enable more people to participate from across Canada

Other recommendations

• Research and information – have a central repository of research that include Indigenous elements, as well as a national database of Indigenous agricultural businesses, and other information tools such as books and resources for children
• National organization for Indigenous agriculture – support the establishment of a national body that would facilitate the growth of the Indigenous agriculture and agri-food sector by serving as a key point of contact with other sector partners, including governments and industry players
• Infrastructure – advocate for the removal of barriers and development of infrastructure in demand across the sector
• Special projects – support unique projects such as seed collection, project fertilizer, and closed system farming, and others in support of Indigenous cultural and traditional agricultural activities

Appendix A: Regional Indigenous agriculture workshops outline – June 2021

Purpose

The regional sessions will help AAFC gain further insight on perspectives, experiences, and opportunities for the future of Indigenous agriculture in Canada. It will provide participants with an opportunity to: connect with peers to discuss individual or personal connections to agriculture and food system activities, share experiences on successful – and unsuccessful – activities, learn from others, and provide perspectives that will help policy makers and program managers make programs and services more accessible and effective for Indigenous agriculture and agri-food partners.

Agenda

Session discussion questions

• What are your aspirations for the future of Indigenous agriculture?
• What opportunities are currently lacking that would increase the likelihood of participation and success for Indigenous Peoples in agriculture?
• What would you like to see from AAFC in its ongoing support for:
  • Indigenous agriculture practices/participation?
  • Indigenous Knowledge through its operations (programs, services, etc.)?

Breakout #1 – Government support and program experiences

• Government program experience –
  Have you sought government programming or services (AAFC or otherwise) to support agriculture and agri-food operations/initiatives? If so, which ones?
• Program improvements –
  How could programs and services be modified to be more effective/better support your needs?
• Communication –
  How could AAFC better communicate information about programs and services to Indigenous partners?

Breakout #2 – Training and capacity building opportunities

• Current resources –
  Are you aware of any resources currently available to you/your community? Do they meet existing needs?
• Knowledge skill/development –
  Have you accessed any training, learning, mentoring and/or capacity building resources in the past? What did you find helpful?
• Supports and resources needed –
  What resources are needed to support training, learning, and capacity building at the individual, community or organization level?

Building an Indigenous engagement table/forum

• AAFC advisory table –
  What would an Advisory Table to AAFC look like, who would be a part of it, what would topic areas be?
• An Indigenous forum –
  What would a future forum be like? – themes, expected outcomes, who should attend?

Appendix B: Regional sessions – polling questions

Question 1 – Indigenous agriculture and agri-food challenges. Identify top challenges. (multiple choice)

Question 2 – Have you accessed any Indigenous or non-Indigenous agriculture programs – provincial/territorial/federal? (single choice)

Question 3 – Would you attend a forum on Indigenous agriculture and agri-food? (single choice)