Government of Canada Supports Innovation in Atlantic Agrifood Industry
News release
Equipment modernization will support resiliency and competitiveness for local growers
November 24, 2025 · Belfast, Prince Edward Island · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)
Canada’s agrifood producers and processors play a vital role in strengthening communities and fuelling the economy. With innovative approaches, the sector is rapidly boosting its productivity and resilience. The Government of Canada is investing in home-grown businesses as they streamline operations, improve product quality, and meet growing demand.
Today, the Honourable Heath MacDonald, Minister of Agriculture and Agrifood, and Member of Parliament for Malpeque, announced a combined investment of over $2M to strengthen the agrifood industry. This contribution will support seven Island farming-related businesses modernize equipment to better serve growing market demand and build a more resilient supply chain.
The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency.
Targeted investments like the ones announced today are strengthening traditional industries through innovation, establishing a more autonomous economy that works for all Canadians.
| CLIENT NAME | PROJECT | TOTAL | MEDIA CONTACT |
| East Point Potato 2009 Inc. | Installation of automated packing equipment that will support productivity and help meet market demand. | $500,000 Repayable |
Boyd Rose General Manager 902-357-2225 |
| Hakkers Produce Inc. | Upgrade of packing equipment to improve efficiencies. | $278,000 Repayable |
Joe McCabe General Manager 902-388-7001 |
| Nabuurs Gardens Ltd. | Upgrade of food production facility to allow for in-house processing and storage. | $600,000 Repayable |
Terry Nabuurs President 902-838-4510 |
| PEI Mussel Farms Inc. | Installation of equipment to improve productivity and increase production. | $262,500 Repayable |
Esther Dockendorff Treasurer 902-961-3300 |
| Power Farms | Installation of new processing equipment to meet changing market demands. | $200,000 Repayable |
Frank Power Owner 902-969-9736 |
| Prince Edward Island Potato Quality Institute Inc. | Upgrade to testing and research equipment used to support the PEI potato sector. | $207,540 Non-repayable |
Pat Quilty Operators Manager 902-368-8378 |
| Victoria Potato Farm Inc. | Installation of automated equipment to increase operational efficiencies. | $97,500 Repayable |
John Visser Owner 902-658-2544 |
| TOTAL | $2,145,540 |
Quotes
“Canada’s agriculture and agri-food sector is the backbone of our communities and nation-building efforts. By investing in agri-businesses, we’re supporting producers and processors on the Island and around the country as they contribute to a prosperous Canadian economy.”
- The Honourable Heath MacDonald, Member of Parliament for Malpeque and Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food
“The projects announced today will build a strong future for this important part of our economy. Our government is dedicated to working with our agri-food ecosystem to ensure they have access to the resources they need to remain competitive and resilient.”
- Kent MacDonald, Member of Parliament for Cardigan, Prince Edward Island
Quick facts
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The funding announced today is provided through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency’s (ACOA) Regional Economic Growth through Innovation (REGI) program.
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The Government of Canada is focusing on supports for producers and agri-businesses to innovate, adopt clean technologies and stay competitive in a shifting global market, ensuring Canada remains a leader in sustainable food production.
Contacts
Lola Dandybaeva
Manager of Media Relations
Office of the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
343-549-0347
lola.dandybaeva@justice.gc.ca
David Fleming
Communications Manager
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
david.fleming@acoa-apeca.gc.ca
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