The federal government has increased its support to Canada’s Outstanding Young Farmers’ Program by 20 per cent to $120,000 over the next four years.

“For three decades, Canada’s Outstanding Young Farmers’ Program has been encouraging young farmers to pursue excellence,” said parliamentary secretary Pierre Lemieux, who made the announcement Dec. 3 on behalf of federal Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz. “The Government of Canada is proud to support such a worthwhile endeavour as we work together to create a bright and prosperous future for young farmers.”

Each year, COYFP hosts seven regional Outstanding Young Farmers (OYF) competitions across the country, culminating with the national competition at which time two nominees are named as Canada’s Outstanding Young Farmers. In addition to celebrating the achievements of the winners, these events also play a major role in increasing the awareness and importance of agriculture in Canada.

The Government of Canada’s funding comes from the Business Development program under the Growing Forward initiative the new national agricultural policy framework aimed at building a competitive and innovative sector for all farmers across the country.