Canada Organic Trade Association Receives AgriMarketing Funding to Bolster Organic Sector Growth
June 27, 2024 - The Canada Organic Trade Association (COTA) is happy to announce that it is receiving up to $1,175,841 in funding over three years through the AgriMarketing Program. This substantial investment will be pivotal in enhancing trade shows, advocacy efforts, participation in global forums, export assistance, and data insights. It marks a significant milestone in COTA's mission to support and expand Canada's organic sector. This funding is part of the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP), a new $3.5 billion, five-year agreement (April 1, 2023, to March 31, 2028) between federal, provincial, and territorial governments. Sustainable CAP aims to enhance the competitiveness, innovation, and resilience of the agriculture, agri-food, and agri-based products sector.
The AgriMarketing funding will enable COTA to:
- Host and participate in international trade shows: Showcasing Canadian organic products on a global stage, creating new opportunities for organic businesses to thrive.
- Strengthen advocacy efforts: Championing the needs and priorities of the organic sector to policymakers and stakeholders.
- Engage in global forums: Ensuring Canada's presence and voice in international discussions about organic standards, trade, and sustainable practices.
- Provide export assistance: Helping Canadian organic producers and processors expand their reach into new and existing markets.
- Offer valuable data insights: Building on the success of publications like the 2024 Organic Market Report and Global Trade Guide, COTA will continue to provide robust and actionable market intelligence.
- Enhance information sharing: Facilitating better communication and resource distribution within the organic sector, promoting best practices and innovative solutions.
“I’m proud to support the work the Canada Organic Trade Association is undertaking to boost sales of Canada’s top-quality organic products,” said the Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food. “With increasing demand for local organic products from folks here in Canada and around the world, I have no doubt this investment will have a positive impact right across the value chain.”
"Receiving this AgriMarketing funding is a testament to the growing importance and potential of Canada's organic industry," said Tia Loftsgard, executive director of COTA. "These funds will empower us to take significant strides in promoting Canadian organic products worldwide, advocating for our sector's needs, and providing our members with the tools and insights they need to succeed."
The recently published 2024 Organic Market Report highlights the strong growth and consumer demand for organic products in Canada, while the Global Trade Guide provides essential information for businesses looking to expand internationally. With this new funding, COTA is well-positioned to continue driving the organic sector's growth and sustainability.
For more information, please contact:
Tia Loftsgard
Executive Director
613-482-1717 ext. 200
About the Canada Organic Trade Association:
The Canada Organic Trade Association is a membership-based association dedicated to promoting and protecting the organic sector in Canada. COTA represents organic businesses across the value chain and works to foster a sustainable and robust organic industry through advocacy, education, and market development.
For more information about COTA and its initiatives, visit www.canada-organic.ca