Skedaddle Maple Officially Opens Thanks to Government Support
News Release
Funds helped Hilltop Farm Forestry Group establish new maple syrup operation
March 31, 2017 – South Knowlesville, NB – Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
The Government of Canada is making strategic investments to support economic development in rural communities by investing in the start-up of new businesses which create local jobs and export opportunities.
Today, Hilltop Farm Forestry celebrated the grand opening of its newest venture, Skedaddle Maple, a 25,000 tap maple sugary established thanks to a $500,000 investment from the Government of Canada.
TJ Harvey, Member of Parliament for Tobique – Mactaquac, who took part in the celebration, announced a repayable contribution of $500,000 for this project through ACOA’s Business Development Program (BDP). MP Harvey made this announcement on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA).
The funding helped with costs related to the construction of a new building to house the maple syrup as well as the purchase of value-added equipment for processing and bottling, and materials related to sap collection, such as taps, lines and pumps.
This project builds on the Government of Canada’s and the Province of New Brunswick’s commitment to work together to drive economic growth in Atlantic Canada through the Atlantic Growth Strategy, which supports strategic investments in initiatives that build on the region’s competitive advantages, such as its strong export potential, growing innovation ecosystem, and skilled workforce.
Quotes
“The Government of Canada is committed to helping Canadian businesses grow, innovate and participate in a global economy so that they can create good quality jobs and generate wealth for Canadians.”
Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for ACOA
“The funding announced today has enabled Hilltop Farm Forestry Group to establish a new maple sugary with the latest technologies that will help them be productive, globally competitive and successful in the industry. I am pleased that the Government of Canada is doing its part to support this growing sector which is helping to diversify the local economy in addition to creating and maintaining more jobs right here in our region.”
TJ Harvey, MP for Tobique – Mactaquac
“Without the help of ACOA’s interest free loan, this new venture would not have been possible. It has helped create local employment and is helping us export our high-quality New Brunswick made maple products all over the world.”
Adam Stone, President, Hilltop Farm Forestry Group
Quick Facts
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- New Brunswick is the third largest producer of maple syrup in the world.
- The New Brunswick maple syrup industry produces 1.8 million kilograms of syrup every year which is sold throughout the province and region, as well as around the globe.
- During sugar season, the New Brunswick maple syrup industry creates approximately 2,300 full time seasonal jobs.
Contacts
Lisa Gautreau
Acting Senior Communications Officer
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
506-471-1565
Adam Stone
President
Hilltop Farm Forestry Group
506-391-5972