AgriMarketing Program: Kosher and Halal Investment Component (Canada)

The Canadian government’s contribution funding opportunity supports not-for-profit red meat sector associations in promoting and expanding exports of Canadian kosher and halal beef and veal. The programme provides up to $2 million in non-repayable funding over three years to support strategic marketing, market development, and export growth activities in Canada and international markets.

The initiative aims to strengthen Canada’s red meat sector by helping associations access new markets, promote high-quality Canadian products, and increase export opportunities, particularly in high-growth regions such as the Indo-Pacific.

Kosher and Halal Beef and Veal Export Promotion Funding Programme Overview

The programme provides contribution funding to Canadian not-for-profit agricultural sector associations working in the red meat industry.

The funding supports projects that promote and expand exports of Canadian kosher and halal beef and veal through targeted marketing, trade development, and promotional activities.

The initiative is designed to help Canadian producers increase market access by highlighting the quality, safety, and reliability of Canadian food products.

Purpose of the Programme

The main goal of this funding opportunity is to strengthen Canada’s red meat export sector by supporting industry-led activities that increase demand for kosher and halal beef and veal.

The programme aims to:

Expand international export opportunities.
Increase awareness of Canadian kosher and halal meat products.
Support strategic marketing campaigns.
Develop new and emerging markets.
Improve competitiveness of Canadian beef and veal producers.
Promote Canada’s reputation for safe and high-quality food production.

Funding Amount and Support Available

The programme provides a total of $2 million in non-repayable contribution funding over three fiscal years:

Funding period: 2025–2026 to 2027–2028.
Maximum contribution per project: Up to $2 million.
Typical project funding: Less than $1 million.

Funding is provided through cost-sharing arrangements.

Standard funding contribution:

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) may cover up to 50% of eligible project costs.
Applicants must contribute at least 50% of eligible costs through cash contributions.

For projects meeting priority criteria:

AAFC may contribute up to 70% of eligible costs.
Applicants must provide at least 30% cash contribution.

In-kind contributions are not eligible for reimbursement.

Who is Eligible?

Eligible applicants include:

National, not-for-profit agricultural sector associations.
Associations operating within Canada’s red meat sector.
Organizations representing beef and veal industries.

Applicants must:

Operate as a not-for-profit organization.
Represent Canadian beef and veal interests.
Develop projects aligned with export growth and market development objectives.

Eligible Project Activities

Projects should focus on activities that support the promotion and expansion of kosher and halal beef and veal exports.

Eligible activities may include:

International marketing campaigns.
Market research and analysis.
Consumer awareness initiatives.
Trade promotion activities.
Export development strategies.
Business-to-business engagement.
Participation in international market development activities.
Promotional activities highlighting Canadian beef and veal quality.

Priority Areas

Additional consideration may be given to projects that focus on priority markets or inclusive leadership.

Priority may be provided to projects that:

Target high-growth Indo-Pacific markets.
Support export diversification.
Are led by underrepresented or marginalized groups.

Priority groups include:

Indigenous Peoples.
Youth aged 39 and under.
Women.
Visible minorities.
Persons with disabilities.
2SLGBTQI+ individuals.

Why This Funding Matters

Canada’s red meat sector plays an important role in agricultural exports and rural economic development.

This programme helps organizations:

Reach new international buyers.
Strengthen Canada’s position in global food markets.
Support producers affected by changing trade conditions.
Increase consumer confidence in Canadian meat products.
Build long-term export partnerships.

By focusing on kosher and halal markets, the programme also supports growing consumer demand for certified and culturally preferred food products.

How the Funding Programme Works

Applicants must develop projects that clearly demonstrate how activities will increase exports and market opportunities.

The application process generally involves:

1. Develop a Project Plan

Applicants should describe:

Project objectives.
Target markets.
Marketing activities.
Expected export outcomes.
Timeline and implementation approach.

2. Prepare a Budget

The proposal should include:

Total project costs.
Requested AAFC contribution.
Applicant cash contribution.
Eligible expenses.

3. Demonstrate Market Impact

Applicants should explain:

How the project will increase demand.
Which markets will be targeted.
How results will be measured.

4. Submit the Application

Organizations must submit complete documentation demonstrating eligibility and project alignment with programme objectives.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Applicants should avoid:

Applying without demonstrating export growth potential.
Submitting projects unrelated to kosher or halal beef and veal promotion.
Failing to provide a clear marketing strategy.
Not including measurable outcomes.
Using in-kind contributions as part of the required cost share.
Providing unclear information about target markets.
Ignoring priority market opportunities such as the Indo-Pacific region.

Tips for a Strong Application

Applicants should:

Clearly explain how the project will increase exports.
Highlight Canada’s food quality and safety advantages.
Include measurable goals and performance indicators.
Demonstrate knowledge of target consumer markets.
Build partnerships with international buyers or stakeholders.
Show how activities support long-term market development.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the purpose of this funding programme?

The programme supports Canadian not-for-profit red meat associations in promoting and expanding exports of kosher and halal beef and veal through marketing and market development activities.

How much funding is available?

A total of $2 million in non-repayable contribution funding is available from 2025–2026 to 2027–2028.

Who can apply for the funding?

National not-for-profit agricultural sector associations representing Canada’s beef and veal industries are eligible to apply.

What products are supported through this programme?

The programme supports export promotion activities for kosher and halal beef and veal products.

Can funding cover the full project cost?

No. Applicants must provide cash contributions. Standard projects require at least 50% applicant funding, while priority projects may require 30% applicant funding.

Are in-kind contributions accepted?

No. In-kind contributions are not eligible for reimbursement under this programme.

Which markets receive priority consideration?

Projects targeting high-growth markets, particularly Indo-Pacific markets, may receive additional priority.

Conclusion

The Canadian kosher and halal beef and veal export promotion funding programme provides important support for not-for-profit red meat associations seeking to expand international markets. By investing in strategic marketing, export development, and market diversification, the programme helps strengthen Canada’s agricultural sector and increase global demand for Canadian beef and veal products.