B.C. invests $6.6M in food manufacturing grants

The B.C. government is contributing $6.6 million in grant funding to seven food and beverage manufacturing firms across the province, saying it will help create jobs and bolster domestic food security.

“We are all working together to create new opportunities for B.C.-based food manufacturers that will strengthen our province,” said Diana Gibson, B.C.’s job minister. “Improving food security and increasing sustainable, local food production is critical for people and families as we continue facing unjustified tariffs from our neighbour to the south.”

Kelowna-based Farming Karma Fruit is receiving $2 million to support the purchase of advanced manufacturing equipment, increase production and expand product lines. This investment will help create 32 jobs.

“Supporting food manufacturing in B.C. strengthens the economy, creates jobs and builds a resilient food system,” said Avi Gill, CEO and co-founder of Farming Karma Fruit. “We’re grateful for the B.C. government’s support in expanding our manufacturing operation and the opportunities it brings. As next-generation farmers, our vision is to lead in creating value-added fruit products, support local farmers, and innovate for the future of farming.”

Fraser Valley-based One Degree Organic Foods is also receiving $2 million to consolidate its four smaller locations into one larger, centralized facility in Mission, B.C., and purchase new equipment that will double production capacity and establish new product lines while creating 32 jobs.

“With the support of the BC Manufacturing Jobs Fund, we are enhancing operational efficiency through a consolidated facility, allowing us to better serve our customers,” said Greg Dengin, CFO of One Degree Organic Foods. “This investment increases our capacity and accelerates One Degree Organic Foods’ ability to provide traceable organic products while strengthening our connection to the Mission community and continuing to support job growth in British Columbia.”

“The food and beverage sector is a core part of B.C.’s manufacturing industry, generating over $13 billion in revenue and over 40,000 jobs,” said Lana Popham, B.C.’s agriculture minister. “Through smart investments of equipment, infrastructure and technology, the delicious harvest we reap each year can also be transformed into made-in-B.C. products, keeping jobs and dollars in the province. That’s smart economics, especially in the face of ongoing threats to B.C.’s well-being from the United States.”

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