Local Food Infrastructure Fund

Overview of the Local Food Infrastructure Fund program:

The Local Food Infrastructure Fund (LFIF) - Large Projects Stream is designed to help organizations enhance food security and strengthen local food systems across Canada. This stream provides funding for large-scale infrastructure projects that increase access to healthy, locally grown, and culturally appropriate food. Projects eligible under this program include building or upgrading facilities, purchasing equipment to support food production, storage, and distribution, and developing systems to reduce food waste. The program aims to foster community-based food systems, improve food accessibility for underserved populations, and promote sustainable local agriculture. By investing in infrastructure, the program enables organizations to expand their capacity, improve efficiency, and support long-term food security. Applicants are encouraged to collaborate with local stakeholders, including farmers, food processors, and community organizations, to create comprehensive solutions that address regional food challenges. This initiative is part of the Government of Canada’s commitment to strengthening food systems, reducing food insecurity, and supporting economic growth in rural and urban communities alike.

Benefits of the Local Food Infrastructure Fund program:

• Financial support for large-scale infrastructure projects that enhance local food systems
• Increased capacity to grow, store, and distribute healthy, locally sourced food
• Improved access to nutritious and culturally appropriate food for underserved populations
• Support for community-based food networks and partnerships
• Enhanced sustainability through food waste reduction and efficient resource use
• Contribution to local economic growth by supporting farmers, food processors, and distributors

Eligibility criteria of the Local Food Infrastructure Fund program:

• Location: Open to organizations operating in Canada
• Applicant Type: Non-profit organizations, Indigenous organizations, and municipal or regional governments are eligible to apply
• Project Type: Must involve infrastructure development that improves food security and strengthens local food systems
• Co-Funding: Applicants are expected to contribute at least 10% of the total project costs, either through financial resources or in-kind contributions
• Project Duration: Projects must be completed within two years of funding approval
• Other Requirements: Applicants should demonstrate measurable impacts on food security and outline long-term sustainability plans for their projects