Premier plans to recognize agri-excellence

News Release
Ont. Govt.

QUEEN’S PARK, Aug. 25 /CNW/ - The McGuinty government is recognizing innovation in the province’s agriculture sector by launching the Premier’s Awards for Agri-Food Innovation Excellence, Leona Dombrowsky, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs said today. “By fostering innovation that starts on the farm, the McGuinty government is helping Ontario’s farmers prosper through new products and new markets,” said Dombrowsky. “This program recognizes the innovation that farmers have always shown in running their businesses.” The ministry is now accepting applications for the program. As many as 55 regional awards, valued at $5,000 each, will be presented. The recipients of the Premier’s Award (up to $100,000) and the Minister’s Award (up to $50,000) will be selected from the regional winners. “An investment in innovation is an investment in Ontario,” said Premier and Minister of Research and Innovation Dalton McGuinty. “One idea can generate new products, new jobs and new opportunities. That’s why we’re recognizing and honouring the spirit of innovation that thrives on our farms, by creating the five-year $2.5-million Premier’s Award for Agri-Food Innovation Excellence.” Farm-level innovation can assist the agri-food industry to meet the challenges facing the sector by, among other things, enhancing profitability in the marketplace, meeting evolving consumer demands and better managing the effects of farming on the environment. Four broad criteria will be used to identify the winning innovations; uniqueness and originality, stage of development, the impact or benefits of the innovation, and adoption and/or commercialization. Applications must be received by November 30, 2006, and will be reviewed by an independent panel from across Ontario’s agri-food industry.