The B.C. government has announced that it will fund a $2 million campaign to help B.C. farmers and food processors promote local foods.
According to the government, the funding will enable local businesses and organizations to launch or expand their own marketing campaigns. Businesses and organizations will be able to apply for matching funding from the province for projects that promote local foods.
Projects may include:
- in-store promotions;
- social media or web campaigns;
- smartphone apps;
- traditional advertising;
- on-product labelling; and
- food-tourism maps.
In a press release, Minister of Agriculture Don McRae touted the value of the investment.
“This funding will support about 50 different campaigns throughout our province,” he said.
“And each one will celebrate and promote the distinct flavours of local products while at the same time increasing business opportunities and growth for B.C.’s 61,000-employee agrifoods sector.”
BC Agriculture Council chair Rhonda Dreidiger also welcomed the funding.
“More British Columbians want to access local food, but do not always know how to find it,” she said.
“This program will encourage innovative communication tools to creatively market B.C. agriculture and food products, helping people access fresh and healthy local foods while building the market for B.C. producers.”
